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!)

40. The Chains the bind Us

Waldheim and Metzlich, prison camps, interrogations and executions haunt Hans Dietrich in his nightmares, making the German officer jerk awake more than once during the night, when Fritz starts to whimper, sensing his distress and suffering from the shifting and other movements of his master in his disturbed sleep. In the morning, the Captain feels just as exhausted as he has been in the evening with some aching muscles in addition, making him feel even worse. At some point his body will force him into a dreamless sleep through sheer exhaustion, but this point in time might still be a night or two in the future. Mark Hitchcock arrives in the morning, shortly before their rising time and is astonished to find the German officer already awake, but sneaks over to his cot quietly. Dietrich looks up from petting Fritz who lies curled up before the young German's folded legs and enjoys the cuddles. "Good morning, Cap", Hitch whispers, feeling suddenly unsure if this has been a good idea, as he meets the Captain's brown eyes and notices the young officer's questioning scowl. Hans Dietrich does not even have to ask his question aloud, as Mark understands it perfectly from the raised eyebrows. "You spoke with Lisa", he finally voices his thoughts. The German officer nods and replies with a quiet whisper himself: "I thought she would be more qualified to help you with your... emotional trauma than any of us ever could." Knowing the tall Captain well enough by now, Mark recognizes the spark of emotion in his gaze. Compassion, sympathy, whatever it is, but he has definitely acted out of human empathy, something he would never have expected from the stern German officer, especially directed toward him and not Sarge who he seems to like. "I just wanted", Hitch starts out and after a moment of hesitation adds: "to thank you, Cap." Surprise registers on Dietrich's face, but he quickly gets a hold of his expression and replies smoothly: "You're welcome, Hitchcock. Caring for the men of my unit is part of my duty. This includes you just like everyone else." Hitch smiles briefly and adds with a whisper: "That's not the style we're used to from our brass. I like you a lot more than guys like Brass Knuckles or the Miser." Seeing the German Captain's widening eyes and questioning look, he adds: "That's Baker. He's always sour and making everyone miserable." "I see", the young officer mutters with a tinge of bemusement. Then inquires more seriously: "Are you feeling well enough to drive again?" Hitch actually thinks about the question asked with honest concern for the safety of his men. "I'm good, Cap. I can drive, but I'm really glad Sarge goes with the Aussies and not I." "I know how you feel about that", the German Captain replies in a dry tone. Hitch observes him closely and notices the tension in his muscles and the dark rims under his eyes. "You're a good guy, especially for a Jerry officer. We, Gotty, Tully and I, and Sarge and Doc as well, don't hate you, just 'cause you're German, even after what happened yesterday." Dietrich blinks and actual astonishment registers on his face. A bit more hoarsely than before, he replies: "Thank you for the statement, Hitchcock."

Riku Gottschlich who walks into the tent now to wake them all up looks a little baffled to find the two of them talking to each other already. Then he performs his waking call and the usual rustling of the morning with everyone coming awake starts. Jakob groans and laments to be woken up as every day, pulling his blanket pillow over his head, until Hans shouts: "Steh jetzt endlich auf, du fauler Hund, Jakob!" "Mit Freunden wie dir braucht man keine Feinde", the Jewish Lieutenant whines slightly, but finally gets up as well. Hitch, who has taken over petting Fritz after the Captain has gotten up and started to prepare his meager possessions for the travel, asks the German curiously: "What did you both say?" An ironic smile plays around the young officer's mouth. "I said 'Now finally get up, you lazy dog.' and he replied 'With friends like you who needs enemies'", Hans Dietrich translates with actual irony in his tone. "And I will add some more to this..." Mark recognizes the twinkle of mischief in the young German's eyes, he and Tully get before one of their pranks and eagerly awaits what will happen. "Wer den Schaden hat, braucht für den Spott nicht mehr zu sorgen", the Captain shouts loudly in the direction of his friend and then adds more quietly: "The laugh is always on the loser." Hitch shares the smirk with the young officer who intends to stand up and take care of his hygienic needs, when he feels himself in Ari's tight embrace, as the boy wraps his arms around the young man's neck from behind.

"What are you doing, Ari?", Hans inquires, sounding slightly incredulous to be sneaked up upon and grabbed from behind by his ward. "Pouncing, like Mowgli learned from Bagheera", the boy tells him proudly. "Mark told me the story yesterday." While Ari shares a smile with Hitchcock, the German shakes his head and mutters: "These Rats are not a good influence for a boy." After their previous rather friendly interaction, Mark actually dares to contradict him openly. "We're teaching him all the relevant things, Cap. Wait till Tully and I get him into our pranks." Dietrich shoots him a withering glare and snaps rather indignantly: "Don't you dare teach him such nonsense, Hitchcock!" Hitch's grin falters slightly at the sight of the grim looking German officer and he remembers rather vividly how and why Hauptmann Hans Dietrich has intimidated him, when he has found himself in his direct presence. The German Captain may be a good-natured guy and up to jokes and games when not on duty, but he is a professional soldier nonetheless and can be controlled, calculating and dangerous. Ari does not know this side of his chosen brother and hugs him a bit more tightly before letting go of him.

Dietrich quickly rises to his feet and tells the boy sternly: "We need to get washed. You skipped this yesterday, but you will not do so today." Ari pouts a little and Hans sighs at seeing him adopt Jakob's and Hitchcock's juvenile behaviour. "This is not a matter of discussion, Ari", he declares strictly and turns to leave the tent. After a moment of hesitation, the Jewish boy runs after him and grabs his sleeve to hold on to. "I'll join you later", Jakob shouts after him, still rummaging through his suitcase in search of a clean enough shirt that does not look too wrinkled. He truly misses the luxury of having baths and laundry available all the time in their HQ.

When they run into Lieutenant Baker on the way into the officer's facilities, the German Captain and the American Lieutenant exchange wary glances, speaking clearly of their distrust of the other man. Finally, Hans Dietrich turns to continue onward inside, as Baker takes off toward the motor pool. Lieutenant Carlos greets the duo in a much more friendly tone. "Good morning, Captain. Hello, Ari." The boy beams and waves at the friendly Lieutenant he knows by now. "Good morning, Sir", he states diligently, remembering the lesson about how to greet an officer. Dietrich orders the child to wash his hands and face, while the German performs his morning shave.

On their morning visit to the sickbay afterwards, they meet Hitchcock with Fritz who is treated by Lisa Hartigan. "The worst is over. He will not die anymore and he can start moving a little again, but you should still watch out that he does not move too much, aggravating his injuries", she informs both men. "That's brilliant news", Hitch comments with a grin, while the German Captain adds more seriously: "Thank you for your help, Lieutenant Hartigan." "You're welcome. I like little Fritz too after all", Lisa replies and scratches the dog behind the ears who pants joyfully. "Take Fritz to the mess tent, but leave him under the table, Private", the tall officer orders. "Then he should not move too much, but get used to not being carried around all the time." "I'll do that, Cap", Mark replies. "You wanna join me, Ari?" The boy briefly looks up at his caregiver who nods approvingly with a smile, then the child runs to his friend Mark. Once the two are out of the tent, Lisa comments to the young officer: "You're definitely a better influence for Mark than the Bullhead, Captain. He's more responsible than ever." Raising his eyebrows in an ironic expression, he replies dryly: "Compared to a Troy almost anybody is a good influence."

Laughing, Lisa leads him to the officer's ward to take care of his bandages. "The scratch on the forehead looks healed well enough to leave bandaging it, but you should still take care", she advises. Hans Dietrich nods and replies dryly: "Of course. I can barely remember the last time I sported only a single bandage. I'd rather prefer things to stay like that." "Then take care of yourself, Captain! After Captain Boggs you're our highest ranking officer. You were wonderful as his replacement compared to Adams, the Puritan. He always forbids all alcohol, fun and games and everyone has to act secretly behind his back. I'd rather have you a thousand times over that and so does everyone else." The German Captain raises his eyebrows in slight bafflement over her honest words, but decides to accept the statement as it is and not lose her trust by reporting something like this rumor.

David Troy is grateful for a few minutes of talking to somebody other than the nurses, especially since neither Major Turner nor General Atkins bear his sense of humor and fun with anything but admonishments and derision. "Sam will come after breakfast", David says hopefully. "I suppose so", Dietrich replies calmly. "He will leave with Brown and the Aussies after that." "When I'm out of bed, I gotta invite you for a drink, Dietrich. You're loyal like a good old dog", David tells the scowling German with a jovial tone. "Even a loyal dog will run away, when kicked too often", the younger officer replies dryly. "Sorry. It was really meant as a compliment", the pilot replies mekely. "You're obviously a Troy. Like with your brother your compliments are hard to tell apart from your insults", the younger Captain counters dryly. "But you actually have a good sense of humor... unlike other people", David adds the last part with a whisper and cautiously glances in the direction of the Major and the General. "I'm still not your league of troublemaker and that's the official conclusion of our fellow Captains. So please don't overstep my bounds of tolerance, if you can help it, Captain Troy", Dietrich comments with dry sarcasm. "I'll try... honestly. Thanks for coming. I'll see you in the evening", David speaks his goodbye in a friendly tone, as he sees the crouched younger officer stand up again, while he mutters: "Goodbye and take care. Don't annoy your nurses and roommates!" "You really sound like Sammy, when you say that. He's at least my older brother, but you're actually younger than I", David adds with a pained grin that turns into a grimace given his burn wounds. "But I'm the more responsible one", the German counters unperturbed and finally turns to leave.

The breakfast table of the Rats is the usual chaos with Hitch spending almost as much time under the table as sitting next to it, since he takes care of feeding Fritz who enjoys the attention and princely food requisition taken care of for him immensely. Jakob at least tries to keep Ari from spending as much time below their table by reminding him that he should eat first and can then take care of Fritz. The Jewish Lieutenant looks actually relieved, when he sees his friend approaching their table with a plate in one hand and a set of cutlery in the other. Sam Troy, who has already spotted the German before, carries a mug of coffee and a jug of water along. With disgust the American Sergeant turns away, as Jack Moffit hands a cup of tea to the German officer who takes it gratefully. After the terrible night, any source of warmth and caffeine is welcome to Hans. "You will accompany Captain Brown and the Aussies to the SS hideout, Troy, so we will have to change personnel in the Jeeps. Hitchcock, when you are up to driving until noon, by which time we should reach the water hole, Corporal Gottschlich can take position at the gun, as my shoulder injury would still prohibit me from doing that", Dietrich argues clearly. Hitch nods and answers: "I can manage, Cap. Honestly!" "I'll take care of handling the gun, Sir. Sergeant Troy showed me what to take care of", Riku Gottschlich replies diligently.

Sam Troy nods in approval. "You're a good kid, Gotty. We'll make a proper desert Rat out of you yet." Dietrich regards all of them with a stern gaze, then nods and turns to Pettigrew and Moffit. "I will leave you two to work together as usual. We will continue scouting the way up to the water hole and secure the area of the water hole itself to avoid any unpleasant surprises for the main convoy." "We will do our best, Captain", Jack Moffit assures him. Tully merely nods in agreement and shifts his matchstick in the corner of his mouth. "Excellent. Then prepare everything for our departure, gentlemen. Jakob, you take care of Fritz and Ari as usual." Silberblatt nods. "Of course. We'll see you in the afternoon at the water hole, Hans." Ari hugs his caregiver around the midsection and mutters into his shirt. "I promise I'll take care of Fritz, Hans." Dietrich smiles gently at him. "You're a brave and noble boy, Ari." "What else would he be with a brother like that as an example", Troy comments with a grin. "Speaking of brothers, Sergeant. You should visit yours before leaving", the German reminds him. "Has David already weaseled his way into your bleeding heart, Captain?", Sam counters with a smile. "I told you, you'll take him in before long." The lean Captain narrows his eyes, as he growls back: "I have no intention of 'taking him in', as you call it. He's costing me even more nerves than you, Sergeant, and that is an actual feat. But I understand his current unpleasant situation and don't wish for him to suffer unnecessarily." Sam Troy exchanges a meaningful look with Jack Moffit who nods, agreeing without speaking it out loud that the Captain is indeed the master of collecting strays.

Gottschlich and Hitchcock follow the German officer quietly to their Jeep, where he checks the state and supervises the final preparations himself, now that Troy does not join them. Taking the Australian hat, his goggles and the binoculars from the back in preparation of the surveying they will have to perform, the Captain takes his seat next to Hitch who eyes him a bit nervously. Without having Sarge around as a backup should he need it, he feels a bit more intimidated by the stern young officer, although he has seen enough glimpses of his human side to not fear that he would turn against any of them in a really aggressive manner the Volcano would have applied. Gottschlich climbs onto the back and takes his seat crammed between their luggage and looks at least as worried as Mark by their scouting mission with the potential of running into an SS ambush and yesterday's events.

As on the previous day, Hans Dietrich orders frequent stops to survey the surroundings. With both drivers and gunners remaining in their position, he performs this task alone. Although they come neither across further minefields nor get in sight of the SS convoy, all their nerves are strained. After three hours of driving, Dietrich makes out a location where the sands have clearly been disturbed which could have been their enemy's night camp location. Also he can spot the water hole and a few surrounding shrubs in the vicinity. Apparently, the SS convoy has been half a day ahead of them to reach the water hole by night and build their camp there. After instructing Pettigrew and Hitchcock on the location and how to reach it, he takes his seat again. Mere five minutes later they reach the campsite where the burnt down campfires remain as well as a few metal tins of the Germans' food rations. Dietrich shakes his head with a frown. Obviously they are in a hurry to not even try to hide the remains of their camp or think that nobody remains in the area coming after them. But that would be a contradiction to their hasty evacuation of their secret hideout.

"Hey, Cap. Look at this!", Tully calls out and waves for the young officer to come over to him. Kneeling on the ground he points to some dark spots where clotted blood has mixed with the desert sand. The Captain picks at one of the pieces of sand and crumbles it between his fingers, as does Jack Moffit who crouches beside him now. "It's still wet. Likely from this morning. Would you agree, Doctor?", the younger officer inquires. Jack Moffit nods with a grim expression, as he digs his hand deeper into the sand below the top flecks. "You're absolutely right, Captain. The sand underneath is cooler and wet, some blood has seeped into it. Most likely they have at least one wounded prisoner still with them, as they would not leave one of their own wounded lying and bleeding into the sand." Now it is the young German's term to bear an even grimmer expression, as he nods. "That's plausible, Moffit. They are only a few hours ahead of us. With the Jeeps we might be able to catch up with them." "Then we should do this, Captain, and not leave one or more of our men in their hands in such a state", Jack replies with a serious tone. Dietrich nods with a haunted expression, as he growls: "We won't, if we can do anything to prevent that! You have my word on it." All of them know that the Captain's word is not to be taken lightly and he will follow up on this promise to the best of his abilities. "But we also have an obligation to our own convoy to check the vicinity properly", the diligent and dutiful German officer calls into mind. "We will report to Captain Boggs now, then check the area for any traps or enemy activities. After two hours we meet again here, inform the main convoy again and pick up the enemy convoy's track. We should be able to catch up with them by tonight then given the Jeeps' speed compared to that of German trucks."

As the young German officer provides his report to Captain Boggs, Jack Moffit observes him closely and realizes the stark difference in leadership style as well as their priorities for decision making between their previous and current commanding officer most clearly now. While Troy would have jumped at the opportunity to catch up with the SS as quickly as possible and make them pay, Dietrich keeps the greater picture in mind and acts with responsibility to a larger unit than just his own five men, as is appropriate for a Captain who has been in command of a hundred men and could not just follow his whims like the unruly Sergeant. Although the rebellious and adventurous part of Jack prefers the former style, his rational and responsible part respects and prefers the latter approach. Tully and Hitch meanwhile discuss which directions they will take each to cover the surrounding area most efficiently. They arrange that Tully and Moffit will take the northward direction, while Hitch will check the southward area with Gotty and Dietrich.

After almost an hour of driving toward the South with regular checks of their environment, a sudden explosion rocks Hitch's Jeep, throwing it off balance. Gottschlich is extremely fast to react and jump off the vehicle, rolling down the sand dune before getting onto his feet again with the swiftness of a cat, as is Hans Dietrich who has only survived countless attacks against his vehicles through the instinctive reaction to get out and roll over the sand. Although his shoulder is less than happy with the rough motion, he is a lot better off than Hitch who has no chance to flee, as the driving wheel effectively blocks his quick exit. When the Jeep turns over, his left arm is stuck underneath and broken in the accident. Only losing consciousness keeps him from crying out in pain, as he hits his forehead against the steering wheel. "Watch out for mines!", Dietrich bellows sharply, as he sees Gottschlich scrambling back up the dune with the clear intention to help their comrade. Getting back onto his feet and pressing his pal against his aching shoulder, the Captain moves cautiously, as he studies the sand intently before setting a step there. Being uninjured and on the right side of the vehicle, Gottschlich reaches Hitch before his commander nonetheless in spite of moving carefully as well. The Japanese stemming Corporal drags the American Private out of the Jeep and a few feet to the side, before lowering him into the sand. Dietrich meanwhile investigates carefully what has caused the explosion, when he can make out the splinters of a Stielgranate. Germans have lost this here in some forgotten desert fight, maybe it has been even one of his own units. At least he is assured now, that they are not in the middle of a minefield and can move without constant danger for their lives. "Captain Dietrich!", Gottschlich calls with a slightly frantic tone in his voice. "Hitch's bleeding and unconscious." "Stay with him, Corporal. I will get the First Aid Kit from the Jeep and join you immediately", the tall young officer calls out and runs back to the Jeep with haste.

Merely a minute later, he joins his two men, when Hitchcock is returning to consciousness and groaning loudly. "Stay down, Hitchcock!", the Captain speaks calmly to the young man, as he sets down the First Aid Kit and points for Gottschlich to hand him the materials, while he checks on the Private. "You have been injured in an accident. I will check on you now. Do you understand me, Hitchcock?", the German inquires with a controlled tone. Hitch tries to nods, but winces immediately and presses his eyes shut, groaning loudly. "Just speak. Don't move your head!", the young officer instructs firmly. "Yeah, Cap", Hitch mutters, feeling somewhat relieved to have somebody to talk to. A bleeding gash on his forehead from striking the steering wheel is obvious. In the direction of Corporal Gottschlich, he adds: "Take some water to wash the sand out of the wound, then put sulfa powder on it to stifle any infection! After that, take a gauze and press on the wound to stop the bleeding!" "Yes, Sir", the younger man replies, relieved to be told what he should do. This is the closest he has ever gotten to a real combat situation. Dietrich then finishes wrapping the bandage around Hitchcock's head, while Gottschlich presses down on the bleeding headwound. "You might need stitches for this, but we will leave this honor to your girlfriend", the German Captain comments in a friendly tone, hoping to cheer the injured soldier up with thoughts of his girlfriend. Then he orders Gottschlich to remove Hitchcock's jacket carefully, while he takes out their stethoscope and continues checking the Private for broken ribs or internal injuries. The German Captain instructs, as he diligently checks Hitch for further injuries: "Tell me, when something hurts!" As Mark is groaning at every touch, he adds a bit more sternly: "I know it hurts everywhere. Tell me, when something hurts more than the rest!"

After checking the young American's upper body, Hitch whimpers with pain, as Dietrich touches his broken arm lightly at a swollen spot. Sighing, the young officer assesses the damage. "Your left arm is broken, Private. It will hurt, but we need to move the bones into the correct position. The medics will take care of the injury properly afterwards. Are you up to this?", the German speaks with a calm, yet compassionate tone. Hitch bites his teeth together and grits out: "Just do it!" "I will need your help, Corporal, as I cannot use my right arm", the Captain tells his other soldier who turns to him immediately. "Rotate the lower arm, so that his hand shows upward again and the bones are in parallel!", Dietrich instructs matter-of-factually. As Gottschlich follows through with the instruction to set the broken limb straight again, Mark howls with pain. Grabbing onto whatever he can get a hold of, he squeezes somebody's hand, until the wave of pain finally ebbs away. "Hitchcock", Dietrich's concerned voice finally reaches his clouded mind. "I'm here, Cap", Mark mutters with a painfilled voice, noticing finally the young officer's hand on his shoulder, as his worried face becomes visible, although without his glasses his vision remains blurred, even more than from the concussion alone.

The German who is kneeling beside the injured Private, sighs with some relief, squeezing his shoulder in reassurance, as he turns to the second young American who eyes him with wide worried eyes. "He has a concussion, Corporal Gottschlich, and in his current state of shock and pain is unable to go anywhere, although only his arm has been broken. I will stay with him as the one more experienced with medical treatment. You march northward and organise us some help! This Jeep looks beyond repair without the help of a decent mechanic and the usage of some spare parts and we don't have a radio unit to call anybody in. Best head for the water hole where you will either meet Moffit and Pettigrew or Captain Boggs and his men." Riku Gottschlich salutes and confirms the order: "Yes, Sir. I will go immediately." "Just help me move him into the shade of the Jeep first", the German Captain tells him sternly and the young American soldier complies immediately. Hitch groans a bit as they move him closer to the Jeep. The young officer addresses him with an apologetic tone, as they settle down in the shade of the Jeep where they have laid out a blanket already: "I'm sorry that I can't give you any morphine to help you with the pain for now, as you must not fall asleep because of your concussion, Hitchcock." "It's okay, Cap", Mark replies, trying a pained smile. "Could you maybe find my glasses? I'd feel better, if I could see something." Dietrich nods, as he answers in a calm and reassuring tone: "Of course, Hitchcock. Just remain lying down. I will also get you something to drink."

Hitchcock's glasses actually have been less lucky than the Private himself, as one of the glasses has been broken, while the other is scratched so badly that seeing through it is impossible. Cursing their bad luck, the German Captain walks to the overturned Jeep and takes out a canteen with water and two tin cups for both of them. "I'm sorry to tell you that your glasses are not usable any more, Private Hitchcock. Do you have any extras?", the lean officer inquires, as he kneels down next to the injured young American. "Damnit. I have a spare pair in my luggage. Maybe you could dig it out, Cap?", Hitch replies. "I will. But you should drink something first. We both need the water", the German replies in his calm tone. Although Hitch has not considered the controlled manner of the German Captain a feature previously, Mark actually learns to appreciate it now. Dietrich is not loud, panicked or fussing over him, but taking care of things in a really quiet and reassuring manner that makes him believe that the young officer has everything under control. Gently, the Captain helps his soldier to sit up and lean against the Jeep's wheel, as he hands him a cup with water, before filling a second one for himself.

Once they have drunk up, the German officer leaves the cups and canteen next to the Private to start looking for the glasses in Hitchcock's luggage, when a shot rings out and a bullet passes mere inches above his head. "What's going on? Who's shooting?", Hitch calls out frantically. Being unable to see anything clearly, suffering from concussion and a broken arm, he feels vulnerable. "I don't know", Dietrich growls back, as he draws his Colt while taking cover behind the overturned Jeep. Two more shots ring out and bullets strike the Jeep's metal frame, before one bullet buries into the ground next to the German and he whirls around, only to find himself at gunpoint from two Arabs who have appeared from behind a dune. "*Throw away your weapons!*", one of the men shouts in Arabic, while his comrade fires at him, striking the Jeep's water canister above his left shoulder. "*Stop shooting. We surrender!", the Captain bellows back in Arabic, as with great reluctance, Hans Dietrich lowers his left arm with the Colt and throws the gun to the ground. Better to live and fight, when the chance arises, than be shot like a rabid jackal by some Arab raiders.

"What's going on?", Hitch asks with panic, when he hears the Captain speak in a harsh language he cannot understand, but thinks is Arabic rather than German. "Arab raiders. We surrender rather than being shot", Dietrich replies sternly. Pointing at the injured man, he shouts toward the armed Arabs who approach them now: "*This man is injured. He needs support.*" One of the men again points his gun at the injured soldier, while the other inquires of the German officer: "*Can he walk?*" Seeing their reaction, Hans is not sure whether they will shoot the young Private, unless he can prove that he can walk and he crouches next to Hitchcock, whispering with some urgency: "You have to get up. Take my arm as support. I don't trust them not to shoot you, unless you make it to your feet." Mark's blood runs cold at these words, but he takes the German Captain's offered left arm with his own left and lets the officer pull him to his feet, where he remains swaying, while Dietrich quickly grasps him under the armpit to support him.

The two Arabs have drawn closer meanwhile and while one still points his gun at the two, the other grabs the obviously less injured German at the right shoulder, making him clench his jaws, as he barely suppresses a sound of pain. Interpreting his expression as aggression, the Bedouin backhands the tall European who winces at the strike that makes his hat fall to the ground. "*Don't resist or you will regret it!*", the Arab tells the Captain harshly who observes him through narrowed eyes, but carefully keeps his emotions in check, as the situation is already volatile and the wrong move or look might get them both killed. Hitch observes the interaction with shock, as he is close enough to the German to see his face and what is done to him clearly enough. "*We don't resist*", Dietrich reassures his captor, as the Arab removes the binoculars and goggles from around his neck and looks at them with confusion, before throwing both pieces of equipment into the sand next to the hat. "*You will come with us. Don't fight!*", the Arab barks harshly, as he starts to search them for weapons and takes the German Captain's and Hitchcock's army knives, but neither realizes the relevance or usability of the pocket knife nor the lock picks in the German Captain's pouches and jacket pocket.

Dietrich curses his bad luck, as they march under the guard of the three Arabs, when the third gunman on the dune joins them as well. With Hitchcock injured and out of duty, himself unable to use his right arm properly and fire any gun, the Jeep turned over, rendering its gun impossible to use, they would not have stood a chance to fight back and survive. 'Live to fight another day', has been a principle his father has taught him as a lecture from the last war. Dead heroes cannot perform their duty to their fatherland and dead officers cannot take care of their men. Now he tells this principle to Hitchcock in a tone he hopes sounds reassuring to the young American, when the German explains to the scared and injured Private what is going on, while he supports Mark Hitchcock as best he can, given his own injuries. Their captors have meanwhile reached their mules which they have kept hidden behind the dune to sneak up on them. From the saddle bags they take two pairs of iron shackles which look like they have been in use for decades by oriental slavers rather than the Europeans' law enforcement, as they allow more freedom of movement than handcuffs usually would. The German averts his gaze, when he gets cuffed around the wrists to not let the men see his contempt and hatred, since his wounded pride struggles against not fighting back against such a derisive treatment. But he has a responsibility not only for himself but also his injured man and will not provoke them unnecessarily by acting violently, when he can hope for rescue within a few hours. Gottschlich is the physically fittest of them and reliable as well as diligent. The young Corporal will organize help and they should be freed rather soon. Risking their lives over false bravado would be stupid.

"It's alright to be afraid in a situation such as this, Private", Dietrich tells the nervous Hitchcock whose tense muscles he can feel, as he leans against the taller German's shoulder. "You're not afraid, Cap", the young American Private argues. "Bravery is the ability to overcome one's fears. Folly means not to have them, when they are justified", the German Captain admonishes him calmly. Hitch stares at the young officer briefly, before muttering with some more understanding to what he has just been told: "Thanks, Cap. And I'm really glad to have you here with me. It would be so much worse, if I was alone." "We just need to make it through the next few hours, Hitchcock. Gottschlich will call help and they will come looking for us. So we should not provoke our captors. They will not harm us too badly, as this would damage their ... wares. They're either raiders who want to trade us for a ransom to any army willing to pay for us or slavers. In that case, they will not wish to kill a potentially valuable workforce. But we mustn't show too much weakness from our injuries to be useless as captives or slaves, for they will simply kill us otherwise." Hitch nods in understanding. "My arm hurts like hell and my head feels like it will explode", he groans quietly. "You have a broken arm and a concussion, Private. That's unfortunately to be expected. But I'll stay with you to provide you with support, whenever you need it. Don't worry! We will make it out of here", the young officer tells him in a reassuring manner. They continue onward with Hitch leaning onto the taller German's left shoulder, while the American reflects that right now the young Captain provides him with as much physical as moral support. Even now, it feels like the German officer has the situation under control from his calm assessment and logical argumentation.

Their captors drive them onward for another hour until they join a whole caravan which continues wandering southwards for an additional hour, before the caravan's leader feels at a safe enough distance to take a rest and check on his two new arrivals. Now they finally have the time to assess the other prisoners, as they are not simply focused on keeping on their feet or in Dietrich's case keeping the injured Hitchcock on his feet as well as himself. The German officer cautiously observes the rest of the raiders or slavers, four older and one young Arab, barely older than a teenager, in addition to the three who have caught them. Furthermore, a rather fat richly dressed Bedouin who is obviously the leader of the group walks around the camp, giving out commands to his men, while the other prisoners or slaves cower in fear. When the young Captain looks at the eleven already captured prisoners, he can make out that they are absolutely diverse in their heritage and reasons for being here. A starved looking bearded young man in an Australian uniform stands out of the pack, as he sits in the sand with slumped shoulders and appears to be staring ahead with a thousand yard stare. A young blond man in a German Wehrmacht uniform which looks utterly ragged and filthy, particularly on the trousers, observes them from underneath half-closed eyelids. The others are mainly young women and children, among them three male teenagers of Bedouin descent.

Dietrich freezes and stares in shock at a Bedouin woman and a girl who have haunted his dreams since meeting them for the first and last time in his life, although he would never have expected to see them again. "Are you alright, Cap?", Hitch asks, as he notices the German Captain's reaction and glazed over, haunted gaze. When the young officer does not react at all, Mark gets worried though. "Cap. What's wrong?", the young American inquires, but does not receive an answer or even a reaction from the man he relies on as his main support right now. Hans however is caught in the flashback of the memories connected with these two women. Again he hears the shouts, the machine guns, the explosions of grenades all around him, as well as the cries of pain and death, as men fall around him one by one under the bullets of the Browning machine guns, until he remains the last man standing. Although he half expects to be shot, as the Jeeps pass by him, no bullet finds its way to him, leaving him alone with the woman and the girl he now sees sitting in the sand before him again.

A touch on his arm and shaking of his left shoulder finally draw the Captain out of his traumatic memories. As soon as he sees Hitchcock standing next to him though, the German officer averts his gaze, unable to bear the sight of one of the Rats right now after what he has just seen before his inner eye. A shout from a female voice is harder to ignore, especially when the crying and lamenting woman is approaching him and pleading to save her daughter and herself, but in the worst case only her daughter. Opening his eyes and finally looking at the Bedouin woman standing before him with haunted brown eyes, the lean German Captain finally focuses on her cries and pleas. "*Please. I know you have helped us before and not harmed us, even when your soldiers died. I don't want them to do to my daughter what they do to me*", the young woman speaks with tears running down her face. Dietrich pales even more. It does not take too much imagination to guess what the Arab raiders would do to a single defenseless woman in their power.

"*Please. I know that you're a Christian*", she continues her desperate pleas and grasps the man's hands. "*Why do you think that I'm a Christian?*", the German officer asks, incredulous to even be leading such a conversation. "*I saw you, when you called your soldiers to bury the dead. You made the sign of the cross, when nobody was there*", she argues, before again turning desperate. "*Please help my daughter, I beg you! We're Christians as well.*" The Captain realizes that her attire of not wearing a headscarf to hide her hair which is usually frowned upon by Muslims comes not from her Bedouin culture, but from being a Christian, most likely Coptic. "*You can be assured that we will leave none of you behind, should we be able to escape and receive help*", he tells the woman in a weary tone. "*But right now I can do nothing for you.*" This assurance still suffices for the young mother who has recognized the saviors of her daughter. "*Thank you so much, effendi*", she repeats a few times before turning to her daughter. "*This man will help and protect you, should anything happen. You will do as he says!*", she orders the little girl sternly. "*Yes, mother*", the young girl mutters obediently, sounding intimidated and scared by the whole situation.

"*What are your names? In case I need to call out to you*", the young German officer finally asks, accepting the responsibility he has just taken with his promise and deciding to live up to it properly. "*I'm Mariam, you may call me Marisha, and this is Iohanna, but her older sister used to call her Kiri. She only listens to that name*", the mother introduces them with a shy smile directed at her daughter who still looks scared. "*We have the same name then. I'm Hans which is short for Johannes*", the young man introduces himself with a friendly smile he barely manages to create given their situation, trying to calm the scared child as best he can. Kiri stares up at the tall man with some astonishment. "*It's a good name. Ioannes. Like the Baptist or the Evangelist*", Marisha repeats with a shy smile. The German tenses visibly at her words, but pulls himself together to speak some more reassuring words to the poor woman. "*You can be assured that I will do all in my power to help you, Marisha and Kiri.*" Now the woman smiles in earnest and the girl follows shyly, seeing her mother smile for the first time in months. "*I cursed you soldiers, all of you alike. But you're a good man to help us, Ioannes. Thank you, in both our names. May God protect you!*" With these words she leads her daughter away to not draw the attention of the guards by talking with the new prisoners too long.

"What was that about, Cap?", Hitch asks incredulously, still leaning against the tall officer's shoulder. "That sounded Greek to me." The German smirks a bit, before turning serious. "It was Greek, or at least their names originally are, as they're Coptic Christians." Then his gaze becomes haunted again, as the memories of their last meeting and the imagined torment the woman and her daughter must have undergone catch up with him. "Didn't you recognize her?", Dietrich inquires with a hollow tone. Squinting to see more clearly in spite of his headache and dizziness resulting from the concussion and the loss of his glasses impairing him further, Mark Hitchcock shakes his head which almost makes him fall over, when vertigo strikes. A strong grip on his shoulder steadies the young American again and it takes him a few seconds to realize who has gripped him to support him, until he can make out the worried face of the German Captain in his blurry vision. "Don't move your head too much, Private Hitchcock! You have a concussion which should not be ignored or neglected", the tall officer admonishes him with a mixture of strictness and compassion.

"Who's the woman, Cap?", Hitch inquires curiously and Dietrich sighs wearily. "The mother of the girl we once saved from a well she fell into. I believe it was you who climbed into it." "Oh", Mark blurts out incredulously. "I wouldn't have thought we'd ever see her again." "Exactly my thoughts, Hitchcock. But here they are. A single mother with her young daughter without a husband or tribe to defend her is the perfect victim for raiders and slavers such as the men who have caught us", the German officer explains with a haunted tone and expression, shuddering at what they must have suffered. "She was right to fear and hate us all, accusing us of destroying everything for the ordinary people who live here and have nothing to do with the war of men who care not in the least about the land they fight in." Hitch looks thoughtful. By now he knows better than trying to argue morality with Dietrich. That is almost as big a mistake as trying to argue about Shakespeare with Moffit. He has only made each of these mistakes once and sworn never to make any of them again.

Both men turn around, when two armed guards approach them. One points his gun at Hitch, the other motions for Dietrich to follow him. "Stay quiet and don't antagonize them, Hitchcock! I'll be back soon", the German officer tells the worried looking American, as he helps him to sit down. "Okay, Cap", Hitch mutters more to reassure himself than to address the Captain who he knows does not approve of such inaccurate answers. After realizing before that the young man can barely see properly with the broken glasses and the blurred vision he must have after his concussion, the German briefly squeezes his shoulder in reassurance rather than nodding as he usually would have done. Then, Hans follows the brutal looking guard through the small campsite to a separate camp fire, where a kettle for brewing tea hangs and the fat man is speaking to one of the other slavers while he sits on a carpet. However the well-dressed Arab stands up, as he sees the guard approach with his latest prisoner, the Westerner who has spoken to the woman long enough to prove that he understands them beyond a few phrases he has exchanged with his men.

"*You speak our language*", the chubby looking bearded Arab in his forties states with a mixture of wariness and bafflement, as the guard presents the tall lean European prisoner in military uniform. Dietrich nods, forcing himself to wear a neutral expression in spite of how much he loathes the men around him. "*I do.*" Deciding to not give too much away and not lose face but making absurd demands like their release, the German carefully observes the leader of the raiders and slavers instead. The man does not look too athletic anymore, given his embonpoint, but this does not make him any less dangerous, maybe even more so, as he is obviously successful in his trade and has bought the muscle he lacks himself by now. This group is a lot more professional than the group that has once captured Troy and him. Back then their captors have reused the big heavy chains meant for shipping slaves from Africa to the new world centuries ago that were meant to sink their load to the bottom of the sea if 'spoiled' by not being fed and watered enough or struck by sickness, a sickening concept that has already unnerved him, when he has first heard about it. The manner in which those slavers have acquired these chains is something Hans has never wanted to dwell on, as they would rather be considered antiquities themselves than actual devices for chaining or keeping humans nowadays and have proven to be absolutely impractical for the purpose of driving slaves through the desert.

The raiders and slavers who have currently caught them however know better than to restrain their captives' movement out here in the dunes where mobility is essential to keep them moving fast enough and not wearing down their stamina completely. For a slaver who still intends to sell his wares at a good price and captor who intends to receive ransom money it is relevant, since they do not just work their wares to death, as sometimes happens with Jewish and other prisoners of concentration camps or even on the way there, as Major von Stolberg has proven. Out here you do not have to restrain somebody with heavy chains to keep the person from fleeing. Where would they run out here in the desert after all? No, these raiders and slavers are smart and professional enough to only restrain their arms through shackles which have been in use for centuries as well by the Ottoman empire and the Arabian Emirates and Sheikhdoms to keep them from being able to fight back by limiting the usage of their arms which would hardly have been necessary in Hitchcock's and Dietrich's case. However, their professionalism makes their captors a lot more dangerous than their previous ones and they will have to be careful, while they wait for their rescue to arrive which Dietrich expects at earliest on the next day, as Gottschlich first has to walk back to the convoy, before he can recruit support to come after them. Even if they pick him up along the way, as they come looking for him it will take at least three hours, before they are aware of their current situation, so still about an hour in their future from now.

The leader Adib inquires from his prisoner who they are and where they are from and receives only superficial short answers. The European is dangerous, because he is intelligent, calm and controlled, as the raid leader assesses quickly after a few curt answers that the soldier gives with precision, without giving anything away in detail. The head slaver decides that he will have to learn about this man's weaknesses and take him down quickly, before the young warrior initiates an uprising of his prisoners or worse. As he is obviously a leader of soldiers, he should be valuable to ransom to any military side. After all the Arab raider has not been in his business for so long without knowing who are the dangerous and the valuable elements among his wares. Breaking the man would cost him a valuable asset, but taking him down and showing him his place is something he can manage within a day without requiring his head guard's special preferences. He has found his perfect slave for these after all. That Westerner is clearly weak and worthless and Karim may keep him for his pleasure, as this provides Adib with excellent leverage over the man he needs as much as he despises him and his ways which violate the Koran and any sense of decency. One weakness of the tall lean European is fairly obvious, his injured arm. Another is his obvious concern for the other prisoner caught with him who he insists on returning to. Noting the information for usage at the right moment, the leader Adib barks harshly to one of the guards: "*Bring him back to the others!*" As the guard points his gun at the German, the Captain follows him without complaining, constantly observing their surroundings and assessing the security of their captors.

When Hans Dietrich returns to the place where he has left Hitchcock with the other guards and prisoners, one of the Arab guards strikes out toward the Private with the stick they use for driving their camels to faster speed. Unable to see properly and given his broken arm, the young American has no chance of defending himself or dodging the strike, muttering something that sounds like "No idea what you're saying. Leave me alone!", while he tries to protect his face with his uninjured arm. "*Leave him be! He cannot understand your language*", the German officer barks at the man in his harsh slightly accented Arabic. The tall brutal looking Arab whirls around instantly and glares at the insolent prisoner. "*Hold him!*", he instructs his two fellow guards who grab the chained Captain by the arms. Dietrich struggles driven by mere battle instincts now, not even caring about the pain in his shoulder as he strikes out against his first attacker who has not expected to be hit and goes down with a bleeding nose. One of the guards, strikes at the officer with a gun butt into the back of the knee, making him drop onto his knees, while a third one's strike against the young man's head fails, because the German dodges unintentionally through his downward movement.

"*Stop this nonsense!*", the raid leader shouts angrily, as he saddles toward them. "*When you want to teach a lesson, Karim, do it properly, but without damaging our wares too much. The Westerners are more valuable than the slaves, but only if you leave them mostly undamaged.*" After these words he gives a sign and the two guards grab the chained young European who has ceased his struggle, realizing that it is better to receive his punishment with dignity than cause himself further injury. The third guard named Karim is the most brutal looking of them all and Dietrich has realized that this man is icy cold and sadistic. "*I will see whether you are as tough as you pretend, soldier. When you wake up within the next two minutes you will still come with us*", the leader Adib tells him with a mocking tone. "*Otherwise I will leave you for the vultures and jackals, as we won't waste precious resources on a prisoner who cannot even keep up with the caravan.*" When the Arab draws his dagger immediately after his coldly delivered speech and moves it as if to stab the German, Hans instinctively tries to dodge, but is held firmly in place by the guards. At the last moment the raid leader rotates his fist to strike the tall man with the hilt of his dagger instead of its blade, first against his injured shoulder and with a single swift and strong motion against the temple. The maneuver has taken the Captain slightly by surprise, not that he could have escaped in any case being held firmly by the guards. As he still tries to bite back a cry of pain from the first strike, the knockout strike takes him out immediately.

Hitch observes from his huddled position on the ground how the leader barks at the Captain in his harsh language that to him always sounds like those Arabs are constantly angry. Then, the chubby man draws his dagger and Hitch fears that he will kill the German, his only ally and friendly comrade in this hellish situation, before he strikes the lean officer with the hilt first against the shoulder. Though his vision is blurry at the distance, Hitch can make out Dietrich biting his lip to keep from crying out. When a second stroke hits him against the side of the head, the young German loses consciousness immediately and sinks into the arms of his guards who drop him on the ground unceremoniously. The third most brutal looking guard kicks the unconscious officer in the ribs several times, before a shout of his leader stops him, as the fat Arab leads the others away. As soon as they have stepped away, Mark scrambles to his feet to shamble over to the unconscious young Captain and shakes his good shoulder. "Hey, Cap... Captain", he calls several times, before changing to "Captain Dietrich." When the lean young man still does not stir, Hitch gets desperate. Mustering his courage he pats him gently on the cheek and repeats first "Dietrich", before switching to "Hans". Whether it is the treatment or the sound of his given name, the tall Captain finally starts to stir. Hitch feels like hugging him with relief, but is sure that Dietrich would disapprove of this, independent of which state he is in.

"Was... wo?", the younger officer mutters in his native tongue, apparently not quite aware of his surroundings yet and moans with obvious pain, as he comes to. "Captain", Hitch addresses him properly to focus his attention and make up for using his first name. "We've been caught by slavers and are forced to march through the desert." "Not again", Dietrich groans, but becomes more aware with every second, as he inquires: "Where's Troy?" "Sarge went with Brown and the Aussies to that SS hideout. Gotty was with us and went to get help. It's only the two of us here. And I got a broken arm and a bit of a concussion from the car accident." The German officer sighs wearily. "I ... remember. Help me get up, Private!" Mark helps him to his feet and steadies the slightly swaying man by holding his upper left arm with his own uninjured arm. "Could I ... ask you a favour, Captain?", the American finally inquires nervously. The tall German officer looks baffled but raises his eyebrows in a questioning manner. "Could you call me Hitch or Mark or even Hitchcock? But please don't call me Private! It's so ... it feels like being pushed away and you're the only human being I can trust and rely on right now", the American musters his courage to argue. Hans Dietrich appears rather astonished by the argument and request, but finally replies dryly: "Fine, Hitchcock. I will try not to forget it. Don't expect to get invited to call me by my given name though and spare me the nicknames!"

One of the other prisoners, the wretched looking, skinny young man wearing the ragged Wehrmacht uniform with blond hair and beard that make him obviously a Westerner addresses the tall Captain, when he moves back into the cohort under the watchful gazes of their guards. "Sie heißen Hans Dietrich. Sprechen Sie deutsch?" The young officer is briefly baffled to be addressed in German and called by his name, before realizing that Hitchcock must have repeated it often and loud enough in his desperation to wake him. With a wary scowl, the German Captain finally answers: "Ja, allerdings. Sie sind Deutscher Ihrem Akzent nach. Und Ihrer Uniform nach ein Soldat der Wehrmacht." Upon hearing the obviously native German's confirmation and statement that the other is apparently a German soldier of the Wehrmacht based on his accent and uniform, the young man starts crying and trembles with fear. "Schon gut, Kamerad. Ich bin zwar kein Offizier der Wehrmacht mehr, aber Sie müssen dennoch nichts von mir befürchten", Hans Dietrich chooses a calm tone, when he tries to reassure the young man that although he is not a Wehrmacht officer anymore the young soldier has nothing to fear from him.

The German soldier calms down a bit, although he still appears scared, and the Captain addresses him with a more calm and reassuring tone: "Versuchen wir es, in Ruhe miteinander zu reden. Ich bin Hans Dietrich, ehemaliger Hauptmann des Deutschen Afrikakorps. Wie heißen Sie, Soldat?" "Peter Meier, Herr Hauptmann", the German answers the inquiry about his name after a brief whimper, too used to the army's indoctrination to not obey the former Hauptmann's command, even though he uses a more friendly tone than his own Hauptmann Zornbrecht ever has. "Ausgezeichnet. Erklären Sie mir, wie Sie hier in dieser Situation gelandet sind", Dietrich reassures him gently, before asking to tell him how he has landed in this situation. Meier whimpers slightly, before finally answering with a despondent tone: "Ich wurde von unserem Leutnant mit einem Kameraden im Bett erwischt bei ... Sie wissen schon was." His stammering recount ends abruptly, as he blushes vividly and Dietrich stares at him literally stunned by the confession that he has been caught by their Lieutenant in bed having sex with a comrade. "Unzucht und Sodomie", the German Captain growls the legal term for their offense with a dark tone that makes the German soldier tremble with fear again.

Not daring to look at the young officer, the man continues his stammered explanation of how he has ended up here: "Herr Hauptmann Zornbrecht hat uns, Winni Müller und mich, zum KZ verurteilt, doch der Transporter ist liegengeblieben. Winni und ich, wir sind geflohen, aber sie haben uns nachgeschossen und..." He starts crying after telling Dietrich that their Hauptmann has sentenced them both to be sent to the concentration camp for their crime which the Captain knows is in accordance with German military law. On the way there, their transport truck has broken down and they have tried to flee, when the guards have shot at them. Even without the words the young officer can tell that his friend must have died in the attempt. "Glauben Sie mir, dass wir Sie ebensowenig in den Händen dieser Sklavenhalter zurückzulassen beabsichtigen wie jeden anderen hier. Aber Sie werden in ein Kriegsgefangenenlager kommen", Dietrich assures the young man that he does not intend to leave him in the hands of the raiders and slave traders as little as anyone else, but reminds him that he will be a POW afterwards. The German soldier appears utterly grateful nonetheless, thanking him so often that the German Captain finally turns away slightly unnerved by the criminal who he would rather keep his distance to.

As Hans explains and translates the conversation to Hitchcock, he adds: "An American POW camp will still be more merciful for him compared to a German or Italian concentration camp, especially given his offense against decency. Here in Cyrenaica there's only Giado and from the rumours I've heard about the camp, I wouldn't send my worst enemy there... maybe I would have made an exception for Metzlich and Waldheim, if they were still alive and I was in a position to decide this." The last part is added with a grim tone that lets Hitch deduce that the Captain truly hates and despises the two SS officers, although they are dead, and shudders briefly as he remembers sitting at the unconscious German officer's bedside and listening to the doctors talking about what his torturers have done to him shortly after his arrival in the LRDP camp. When they move along with the work chain of slaves and prisoners, Dietrich looks at the leader of the slavers, trying to assess whether it will be a good idea to ask him for some water to drink, as the man has said himself that they are worth more than the other slaves due to the potential of receiving ransom money. Noticing the gaze, the Arab slaver Adib addresses his captive with a cold and condescending sneer: "*You made it back to your feet in time to not be left behind, but you missed the water being given to prisoners. Let's see how long you can last, soldier! This will teach you and all of them a lesson not to disobey or try to resist.*" Dietrich knows better than to argue with a cold blooded sadist such as him. He has met too many such men in the SS and unfortunately the Wehrmacht as well, often in command of appropriate facilities such as German prison camps. "Don't you want to ask them for something to drink, Cap?", Hitch inquires with worry. "Their leader said that not giving me water is part of my punishment and will teach the others the lesson not to disobey", the German officer sighs wearily.

"That's unfair", the young American protests. "This has nothing to do with fairness, Hitchcock. They are cruel men only focused on their own advantage and have no qualms about hurting others if it serves their interests", the young Captain admonishes him wisely. "Did you at least get something to drink?" Hitch almost looks guilty, as he nods. Hans Dietrich looks relieved however. "You need the water more than I do right now, given your recent injury. I don't want you to get punished because of me." "I rather have the impression that you get punished because of me, Cap", Mark remarks sheepishly. "I wouldn't have left you or anybody else in the situation of being harassed by slavers without even being able to understand them. You didn't resist on purpose", the German replies wearily. "Still, you didn't have to defend me", Mark argues slightly incredulously at the behaviour, although it should not astound him after the man has jumped into a snake pit to save his life. "Did you expect me to just stand by and watch you get beaten up for not speaking their language?", Dietrich counters sarcastically. "Don't be ridiculous, Hitchcock! I have an obligation to look after my men and you are one of them." "You know Sarge was right when he said that you're a great guy", Hitch tells the young officer with some awe resounding in his voice.

"You seem to forget who I am, Hitchcock", Dietrich admonishes him with a strict tone. "You're Hans Dietrich, you're a Jerry Captain. I know that and ... I mean I was pretty wary of you, before... you know... you changed to our side. But I really learned a lot about you since then and all that's happened in the last weeks pretty much convinced me that you're a nice person, even if you're sarcastic and quite a maths smartass." "Mind your words! I'm still your commanding officer, Hitchcock", Dietrich reminds him sternly, although the ghost of a smile plays around his lips. But the only person he tolerates to call him a smartass beside Jakob is Troy. Hitch blushes slightly, as he tries to appease the German: "Yeah. But that doesn't mean you can't be a good guy. I mean we really had some tough luck with some of our brass. I was pretty scared of the Volcano, especially after Tully pranked him and stole his booze, and Brass Knuckles is a no nonsense guy as well. But I'm not scared of you, Cap." "I must be losing my touch then", Dietrich counters ironically and Hitch starts to laugh quietly.

"Thanks. That really cheered me up", the American tells him with a smile, as he holds onto the taller man's shoulder. "You're rather easy to entertain, Hitchcock and a grateful audience. Marcello would love you", the German replies dryly. "Hard to get any better entertainment out here. There's virtually no competition, but that doesn't mean that you're not good at what you're doing", Hitch replies with a grin. "What do you think I am doing?", Dietrich inquires with irony. "Cheering me up. Sarge used to do it as well, when things looked pretty much hopeless. I'm really glad to have you here with me, Cap", the young Private tells him wisely. "Repeat this a few more times and your girlfriend might get jealous", the lean Captain tries to deflect the compliment with sarcasm. "Lisa's used to sharing me with others", Hitch replies with a roguish grin. "That's a lot more information than I ever wanted to know, Hitchcock", Dietrich declares with a groan. "Sarge's still right. You really are a great guy to have as a friend", Hitch counters with a grin. "I'm not your friend, Hitchcock, but your commanding officer. You'd better not forget that I do what I do because it is my duty and my obligation according to my principles, not because of any notion of personal sympathy or friendship", the German Captain protests with a growl. "Sure, Cap", Hitch replies with a smile that says quite clearly that he does not believe him. Why do all these Yankees have to be so stubborn and complicated and cannot just take his word for what it is?

When Jack Moffit and Tully arrive back at the waterhole after the arranged time and do not find the others waiting yet, they are not yet worried. Half an hour later without any sign from Dietrich, Hitchcock and Gottschlich the British Sergeant bears a grim expression. "Something has happened", he tells Tully. "It's not like the Captain to not keep an arrangement. Hitch or Troy might get carried away with following some track of the SS and not watch the time, but Dietrich is a German officer. He's precise, diligent and reliable to keep his timing unless something dire has happened." The American Private shifts his matchstick in the corner of his mouth and scowls, as he inquires: "Should we go lookin' for them, Doc?" "We will inform Captain Boggs first. Maybe Dietrich has reached the convoy to send a warning, but at least the Captain should be informed in any case", Jack argues sternly. Tully shrugs and moves to prepare the radio for the call. "Blue Horse to Red Horse. Coming", the British Sergeant replies a few times, before Lieutenant Williams answers his call. "Red Horse here. Have you checked the waterhole? Over." "We checked the waterhole. The way there, the northern area and direct vicinity is all clear, but we have lost contact to Captain Dietrich and his Jeep. Over", Moffit reports. "Repeat the last part please. Over", Williams demands incredulously. The British Sergeant repeats wearily: "I said we have lost contact to Captain Dietrich and his Jeep more than two hours ago. We split to check the waterhole's vicinity, but they have not returned to the arranged meeting point. Over."

For a minute the line stays quiet, then Jack hears Captain Boggs' voice inquiring: "Sergeant Moffit, you secured the waterhole, but lost contact to Captain Dietrich? Over." "That is correct, Sir. We split up almost three hours ago and have seen no sign from the Captain, Corporal Gottschlich or Private Hitchcock since. I assume that something has happened to them. Over." Boggs does not even require Moffit to lead the argument about the German officer's diligence and reliability, as he is aware of his abilities himself. "Check out the direction the Captain has gone to carefully, Sergeant Moffit, and keep me informed on the situation. Do not engage in any heroic actions without proper backup though. Over", the American officer orders sternly and his only relief right now is that the more reasonable Jack Moffit and not the hot headed Sam Troy is out there to help his new colleague, as the American Sergeant would likely have charged into battle already without even bothering to inform him which is why Boggs has insisted on positioning Moffit on the Jeep with the radio unit. "We will check out their intended route as arranged between the drivers and keep you informed, Captain. Are Troy and the Aussies on their way? Over", Moffit replies coolly. "They should catch up with us at the latest, when we arrive at the waterhole in about an hours. We call you then to check on the situation and whether to send you further backup. You report immediately, when you find something, Sergeant. Over", Boggs answers. "Understood. Over and out", Jack states, before handing the head phones back to Tully and signals him to turn off the radio. "We will follow Hitch's trail and see what we can find. Troy and the Aussies are approximately an hour behind the main convoy and they should arrive here together in an hour", Moffit informs Pettigrew who nods and shifts his matchstick. A mere minute later, they are driving out of the waterhole in the direction Tully has previously discussed with Mark Hitchcock.

"What do you mean Dietrich, Hitch and Gotty are missing?", Sam Troy bellows incredulously, as they reach the oasis where Captain Boggs has started to give instructions for building a camp. "Sergeant Troy", Captain Boggs sighs wearily. "I understand that you are worried, but Sergeant Moffit has already started a search for Captain Dietrich and his men. They will report, as soon as they find something. Charging blindly out there will not help your CO or your men." Troy grits his teeth and glares at Boggs. He hates inactivity and being unable to do something. Brown speaks calmly to him to convince him of the reasonability of the American Captain's words, when they are interrupted by Lieutenant Willims. "Captain Boggs. Sergeant Moffit just reported that they have found Corporal Gottschlich. Apparently they were caught in an explosion and Private Hitchcock was injured, their Jeep damaged. Captain Dietrich stayed with Hitchcock to aid him and sent Gottschlich to get help." "They'll need spare parts and medical equipment", Troy comments, before Boggs even has the chance to offer. "We'll bring that to them." "Sergeant Troy", James Boggs grinds out, sounding unnerved. "My boys and I will go with him. I still owe Dietrich one for his rescue mission for my lads", Captain Brown supports his protege. Boggs sighs. "Fine. Take spare parts and tools for repairing the Jeep and a med kit. Bring them back safely!", Boggs tells them.

As they make their way over the dunes, both Mark Hitchcock and Hans Dietrich are more and more affected by their injuries and the latter also by lack of water, the direct exposure to the sun without a hat to protect his head, as well as his general state of long term undernourishment. Grimly the German curses that he lacks any protection of his head from the unrelenting sun, as the Arabs have left his hat at their Jeep after striking him and suspects that either sunstroke or thirst will take him out rather soon. But telling this to the already suffering Hitchcock who is affected by his own injuries would help neither of them and only serve to make the American more nervous. Thus, the German officer stays silent and focuses on willing himself to continue onward, although his body loses more and more of his struggle against the inevitable. At some point the two young soldiers start leaning on each other's shoulder, each providing support for the other man as best he can. After two more hours when dusk is approaching Hitch feels Dietrich's steps become shorter and slower, while the taller German sways and stumbles more and more, until he finally collapses first to his knees and then falls forward onto the sand, before Mark's befuddled mind can grasp what is happening and try to catch him. Hitch immediately kneels at his side and rolls the lean officer on the back, as he cries out in panic, while shaking the unconscious man frantically: "Help! Somebody help him!" Although they don't understand his words, his intent is quite clear to the Arabs whose leader stops his horse next to the unconscious German Captain and gazes down on him without even bothering to dismount. Then the man Dietrich has assessed before as a cold blooded sadist drops a leather skin filled with water into the sand next to Hitchcock and points at the unconscious European. Hitch does not hesitate any longer, but picks up the waterskin and sits behind the German officer so that he can stabilise the Captain's head on his thigh and try to give him the water using only his left hand. Since he does not know how to make the unconscious man swallow and cannot use his broken right arm either, he just carefully dips the waterskin to fill his mouth.

As his coughing reflex sets in, Hans Dietrich is woken up the hard way, when he expels the excess water from his lungs. As he lies back down breathing heavily, he can finally start to wonder why he finds the face of Mark Hitchcock looking down on him with an honestly concerned expression that the Captain might have expected from Jakob and by now would not have found strange on Troy, but definitely would never have thought to see on the rebellious immature Private's face. Nonetheless he is grateful to finally get some water to drench his parched throat and provide the much needed relief for his splitting headache he can point to sun stroke and lack of water, as his memories of how he has ended up in this situation gradually return to him. "Thank you, Hitchcock", the young officer rasps out with obvious gratitude and relief. "You're welcome, Cap. It would be far too dull without your entertaining presence", Hitch tries to sound cheerful but fails miserably, as his eyes and tone speak of his worry and concern. This is a new level of insolence not even Sam Troy has reached yet, although Dietrich would not put it beyond that annoying oaf David Troy to stoop to a similar level. However the German is far too exhausted and dried out to start a long discussion. From his tone it is clear to the young Captain that Hitchcock is beside himself with worry and his concussion, so he should better not be held fully accountable for his actions right now. Thus, the young officer pragmatically decides to simply let it slip for the moment, focusing instead on regaining his own bearings fast enough before the raiders and slavers think of new methods for driving him onward. At a bellowed command from the Arab leader, Hitch returns the waterskin to his outstretched hand, before helping the exhausted German officer back to his feet. Dietrich sways dramatically, but remains standing through sheer power of will, gritting his teeth and forcing himself to not glare defiantly directly at the leader of the raiders, if he wants to survive the coming night.

"Where is Hans?", Ari asks Jakob with tears in his eyes, as they walk to dinner alone with a whining Fritz in the young man's arms. "I don't know, but I hope he'll come back", the Jewish Lieutenant replies and prays that his friend is unharmed and will return as soon as possible. The second report that Hans and Mark have disappeared from the wreck of the Jeep has caused them all worries. The boy actually cries at these words which do not reassure him at all and Jakob feels out of his depth with the whole situation. Hans is the far better one to calm soldiers and children alike. At least Fritz is uncomplicated, once they enter the mess tent, and feels immediately back in his element of begging for food through pleading eyes at the food dispenser. Seeing the young officer's desperate expression, the American Private there even offers to take care of the dog mascot for the time of their dinner, so that the Lieutenant can carry the tray with their food.

Without the company of the Rats who are all out to search for their Captain, Silberblatt turns to sit at the officer's table. Captain Boggs looks as worried and concerned as Jakob feels. The Hispanic Lieutenant approaches them however, as Silberblatt sets his tray on the table. "Ari, why are you crying?", Carlos asks with honest compassion for the boy who reminds him of his own son. "Hans is gone ... and they don't know ... where he is ... and if he comes back", Ari tells him his worries under tears. "Your brother's a tough and smart guy, Ari. He'll survive and come back. I heard he helped your other friend, the blond Private. He's a hero", the Lieutenant tells the despondent child with a reassuring smile. Ari looks at him intently now. "You think so?... Sir", the boy asks, sounding hopeful and even remembers the proper way to address him. "I know he'll do anything he can to return to us right now", Carlos tells the child with true conviction. "Thanks", Ari replies with a timid smile and hugs the man briefly around the waist. The Hispanic Lieutenant tousles his hair. "You're welcome, Ari. You should eat your dinner now to not worry both your brothers." "Okay", the boy replies and sits down next to Jakob who tells Carlos: "I can't tell you how grateful I am, Lieutenant Carlos. Thank you so much!" The older officer smiles in a friendly manner. "I really like Ari. He reminds me of my own boy. And I like your friend. He's a good officer and a good guy." Silberblatt smiles gratefully and nods. In spite of his paranoia and worries, Hans seems to have gained more allies than he would have expected.

Merely half an hour later at the break of dusk the leader of the raiders decides to camp for the night. Hitchcock and Dietrich sink into the sand equally grateful for the rest as the other exhausted looking prisoners and slaves, while their guards mainly focus on building up tents for the night, taking care of the riding beasts and only two remain to point their guns at the prisoners who are far too exhausted for any acts of defiance or resistance. The German soldier who has addressed Dietrich before does not approach them, but walks the most muscular and brutal looking Arab guard, the leader has called Karim before, to act like his personal servant which the Captain considers particularly strange and suspects that he has not yet been informed on something important.

Marisha and Kiri move closer to them now with the Bedouin woman constantly looking over her shoulder to check whether somebody observes them. "*Please look after Kiri and make sure ... they don't do to her what they do to the other women*", the Bedouin woman pleads with desperation in her tone. Hans pales slightly, but whispers back with true conviction: "*I swear to you that I will do all that I can to protect her.*" Marisha makes a grimace that might have been meant to be a smile, before she turns to her daughter telling her strictly: "*You will stay with Ioannes! He will protect you.*" Kiri looks scared, but nods obediently. Then, her mother addresses the Captain again: "*I need to do my work as a servant now. Thank you for protecting her, Ioannes.*"

Hitch has noticed her pointing, as well as the fact that the girl stays sitting with them, although she looks at both men with a scared expression, while her mother walks away. "You offered to protect the girl, Cap?", Mark inquires. "She pleaded with me to protect her from ... what they do with the other women", the young officer replies with a hoarse tone. "I could not say 'no'. That would have violated each and any of my principles." "Sure, Cap", Hitch replies with an actual smile of understanding. After all, that would have been exactly the reaction he would have expected from the honorable German Captain. "Don't worry, Hitchcock! They won't let us die or kill us, unless we provoke them openly which I definitely cannot recommend." The young officer's tone is as dry as the desert sand around them and Hitch smiles wryly in spite of the grim topic, while Dietrich continues his argumentation: "Their leader is an intelligent and dangerous man or he wouldn't have become that old and fat as a slaver and raider. He knows exactly how much to give us to keep us uncomfortable and weakened, but without damaging his precious property." As one of the guards passes by them dangerously close, Hitch quickly narrows his head. "The others are mere minions, except for Karim, the brutal looking one who treats the German soldier like his servant. I know that type well enough, a sadist who enjoys violence", the German Captain growls with disdain, as he continues to observe the guards and the lead slaver through narrowed eyelids. His splitting headache and blurry vision are not helping him with coming up with a reasonable plan.

The guards drive all prisoners inside a large tent where a fire is lit in the center. Feeling cold, exhausted and fully aware that the night will only become even colder, Hans Dietrich directs Hitchcock and Kiri who follows obediently and silently toward a place near the fire. One of the older teenage boys sitting there stands up and takes an aggressive stance with the two others backing him up. "*The place at the fire is ours!*", he growls in an aggressive manner. "*We won't take all of it. There should be enough to share it*", the German replies sternly, trying diplomacy before he finds himself outnumbered three against one, as Hitchcock is even less in a fighting condition than he himself and Kiri definitely cannot fight. The fact that the tall European speaks with them in Arabic definitely suffices to startle the teenage boys who glance at each other, unsure how to deal with the situation. Something in the lean soldier's determined tone and stance makes them hesitate to start a fight, none of them actually wants after an exhausting day. The leader of the boys finally points toward their side and says: "*Fine. You can have that side. We'll have this side of the fire.*" Hans nods with honest relief that he will not be drawn into a fist fight against a few desperate teenage slaves in his current state, as he could not predict how this might turn out. "*Agreed. We stay on our side and leave you in peace and so do you.*" The boy nods, then proudly turns back to his friends. "*See. I told you we could defend our territory.*"

The German Captain turns back to Kiri and points to a place close to the fire. "*You can sit there where it is warm, Kiri. But do not get burned and stay on this side of the fireplace!*", he advises the little girl who stares at him with wide eyes. "*We're never allowed to stay at the fire*", she tells the tall man with a whisper, looking scared. "*We're allowed now. I took care of it*", the young officer tells her in a more gentle tone and the girl still stares at him incredulously. Deciding he will let her come to terms on her own, Dietrich helps Hitchcock to sit down, although his legs are already shaking as well. Sitting down, before he would collapse, the German Captain explains the manner of their arrangement to the American Private who eyes him curiously. "The boys and I agreed that we can share the fireplace spots. We stay on this side, they stay on the other side. This should be an acceptable arrangement." "I bet Sarge would have beaten them up", Hitch replies with a grin. The young officer smiles wryly, as he argues: "Definitely. But what would we gain from that? We can barely stand on our own feet anyways. And we would scare Kiri." Hitch smiles at the girl who still looks at them and the boys with a scared expression. "Doc will say you're adopting strays again", Hitch comments jovially. "But I wouldn't abandon any kid either, if I could decide it." "Is this your way of saying that you support my decision, Hitchcock?", Dietrich inquires with cocked eyebrows. "Probably... Yeah, Cap", Mark replies with an honest smile. He definitely could have worse company than the German Captain right now. Even with a stern facade he is a good-hearted man. Sarge would not have left the girl on her own, but Moffit might, Hitch thinks.

One of the older children, a girl no older than than eleven by Dietrich's estimate, walks around and hands each of them a dry pita bread. "*Thank you*", the German mutters, as he takes his bread. The girl's eyes widen at having one of the Westerners speak to her in her language. She is so stunned that she almost forgets to hand a bread to Kiri, but is stopped by the Captain who calls her back, as he points at the little scared younger girl he has sworn to protect for now. Once she holds the flat bread in her hands, Kiri looks at the tall man with wide eyes. "*Eat it, Kiri! You need the food*", Hans addresses her in what he hopes is a gentle and reassuring tone for the scared girl. This is even worse than looking after Ari and he asks himself cynically, what he has been thinking to ever agree to that. That Kiri starts nibbling on the bread after a few more moments of hesitation reassures him that he is not totally failing at protecting her, because he intimidates the girl. Another young girl with a darker skin color than the first one with the pita bread walks around and hands each a copper cup, while a third older teenage girl fills these cups with hot but very watered tea. Regardless of the quality, they all are grateful for the warm beverage which help to return some warmth to their limbs and bodies as well, now that the cold of the desert night starts to seep into their bones. Not even Mark Hitchcock is complaining about drinking tea for now. Too bad Troy is not here to receive this lesson in modesty.

The tea and rest help against the worst of Dietrich's headache and he hopes that his sun stroke is only mild, as he winces when trying to get up and abandons the idea again. The Australian soldier they have seen previously still stares ahead with his far away gaze, holding the tin cup in hand without even having drunk a single sip. The man bears every sign of traumatisation the German officer assesses with a worried scowl. "What's catching your attention, Cap?", Hitch inquires, as he notices the concentrated gaze of the tall Captain sitting next to him. "Have you noticed the Australian soldier?", Dietrich asks back. "Nope", Hitch answers. "But I'm actually glad I'm able to recognize your face at this close distance. I probably wouldn't even recognize Sarge if he walked by now." The German nods at the admission, before explaining with a quiet murmur: "I think he got away from the SS hideout we found yesterday. His physical state is similar to the men we found in their prison cell, only that he's still alive. And he looks shell shocked." Hitch looks a bit unsure how to react to this. "You think it's a good idea to speak to him then?" The Captain sighs warily. "It would be immoral to just abandon him to his fate, when he is one of our comrades from the LRDP." Mark is not astounded at all that the young officer would take the moral initiative after all that has happened with them and Dietrich. Thus, he inquires: "Anything I can do to help, Cap?" "No", the German replies quickly, then reconsiders: "Actually yes. Don't use my name when addressing me. Simply stay with my title. I don't know how he will react to a German name. You stay here with Kiri, while I try to talk to him."

Kiri lifts her head, when she hears her name and looks at the tall man with fear filled eyes. Hans Dietrich pulls himself together to bear a friendly expression in spite of the situation and speaks calmly, as he tries to explain to her what will happen: "*I will go over there and speak with the man. You stay here with my ... friend...*" He winces at the term that is the best choice for inspiring trust in the child in spite of the fact that Hitchcock cannot understand him. "*He will look after you. His arm is hurt and he cannot see well, so you should sit a bit closer to him.*" Kiri nods, but stays where she is seated. Sighing warily, the German stands up on slightly shaky legs, when she squeaks: "*Ioannes.*" As he looks down on the girl, she asks with a scared tone: "*Will you come back?*" With a sigh, he crouches in front of her again. "*I will never leave the tent. You can always see me*", the German tells her in a reassuring tone. With unshed tears shining in her eyes Kiri nods quietly and moves a bit closer toward Mark Hitchcock. "Keep an eye on her, if you can see her, P... Hitchcock!", he tells the young American who appears a bit confused, but then realizes that this must be about the girl the Captain is protecting. "Captain", Hitchcock addresses him uncharacteristically with his full title, making the young German look at him intently. "Why does the girl call you Ioannes?", he inquires with curiosity and puzzlement.

Dietrich actually smiles mildly at the harmless question, having feared something far worse. "Because that's my given name, Hitchcock. Hans is the short version of Johannes. I used the Greek name so that they could understand it and relate to it, because that is tradition among the Coptic Christians to use Greek rather than Arabic names. The English version would be John in case you are wondering." Hitch grins widely now. "Seriously. Jack's the adaptation of John. So you got the same name as the Doc? That can't be coincidence." "It's a very common name", the German replies with actual amusement in his tone. "And Moffit is quite aware of this. He lived in Germany for years after all." The younger American still smiles. "You should share fun stories like that more often. You're a lot more entertaining when you teach us new stuff than the Doc. Don't tell him I've ever said that!" The Captain cannot hide a smirk. "My lips will be sealed. Take care, Hitchcock, and don't get into trouble again, while I'm gone." "I honestly didn't provoke it this time, Cap", the Private defends himself. "This time. Try to keep it like that!", Hans admonishes sternly. Hitchcock is causing him at least as much worry as Kiri who is a lot better behaved than the American.

The young officer finally gets up for the second time and sways a bit before regaining his balance. The single guard in the tent looks up and points his gun at him in a threatening manner and Dietrich raises his arms in a defensive gesture that universally communicates that he intends no threat or harm. Some of the other prisoners, in particular the young women, look at him with scared expressions similar to Kiri. Cautiously, the Captain stalks over to the Australian soldier who does not even look at him, when he kneels before the young man. From the torn and ragged state of his uniform, stained with blood and filth the German officer has already concluded that he might have escaped from the SS. His countless bruises in the bearded face and on the hands and arms seem to prove this assumption as well. The insignia marks the brown-haired man as a Private and Dietrich addresses him as such: "Private." The military tone induces a reaction, as the soldier looks up at the Captain. Dietrich's stomach tightens, as he meets the Australian's gaze. After having been a commander of a German prison camp himself with the gruesome duty to sentence partisan fighters or other enemies of the state without the protection of the Geneva Convention, because they have not served an official military, he is familiar with reading a man's hopelessness and loss of any will to live in his eyes. But this young soldier's eyes are different, more broken, empty, as if he is a mere husk devoid of any emotions.

Swallowing hard, the young officer states with military formality which has triggered a reaction before: "State your name and unit, Private!" For a few seconds the man continues to stare at the German Captain with his empty gaze, then he speaks with a voice hoarse from lack of use and water in a hollow tone: "Private Jack Young, 8th Army." Dietrich recognizes the regiment immediately as providing many of the LRDP's soldiers. "You're from the LRDP", he states matter-of-factually and for the first time sees a flicker of emotion in his hollow eyes. "So are we", he adds calmly and points at himself and Hitchcock. "You're Yankees", the Australian notes. "We're from Captain Boggs' American subunit", Dietrich explains and something like recognition lights up in the man's eyes at the American Captain's name. "You landed here after you escaped from ... north of here", the German officer continues his careful inquiry and observes the young Australian tensing visibly. With narrowed eyes that hold an emotion as intense as a burning fire, he stares at the tall lean Captain. "The ... Jerries got our whole unit", the Aussie finally starts to speak with a tone that is devoid of any emotions unlike his eyes. "They asked us questions, beat us, killed more and more of us, until they ... brought some of us away. I didn't wanna stay. So I ran and the Arabs picked me up before the Jerries. It's even worse with their main guard, but he has his Jerry pet now." Something like disgust and horror, followed by relief fills the young man's eyes, now that Hans can discern the emotions burning there more clearly. "We will get you out of here, Private Jack Young. I give you my word as an officer that I will do all in my power to help", the German tells him with honest conviction. Some emotion flickers in the Australian's eyes, before disappearing again, as the man turns away, muttering: "Nobody can help me." "You know how to find me, should you change your mind", the young Captain tells him in a friendly tone, knowing that some shell shocked soldiers prefer to keep their distance and remembering well how he has preferred to keep his distance from everyone after what has happened with Waldheim and Metzlich.

The tall officer sways a little as he gets up and does not make it back to Hitchcock and Kiri, as three armed guards approach him and the young LRDP soldier with grim expressions. The younger man starts to tremble with obvious fear, while the German Captain tries to stand straighter to hide his weakness. "*You will come with us!*", one Arab guard bellows, while all three point their guns at both of them. Hans Dietrich starts walking in the direction of the tent exit, while the Australian is dragged to his feet by two guards and pushed along, as they follow behind the tall European and the third guard. Their ways split soon, as the guard directs the German officer toward the leader's tent, while the two other guards drag the Australian into another tent, as he gives a desperate whimper. Schooling his face into a neutral expression, the young Captain steps in front of the leader of the raiders who is served a drink by Marisha, while a younger woman massages his shoulders. Seeing the lean officer, the chubby Arab grins and asks condescendigly: "*Did you learn your lesson not to disobey, soldier?*" Hans nods with a carefully kept neutral expression. Adib inquires: "*Which side do you belong to? The godless slut serving Karim or the spineless whimp without a soul?*" The German inhales sharply as realization dawns him how the German soldier possibly serves the sadistic brutal guard Karim. The shellshocked Australian unfortunately behaves exactly like the Arab slaver describes him, although this is hardly his fault. The mere imagination what the sadistic guard does to him makes the Captain's blood run cold.

"*He spoke with the soulless one*", the guard who has brought Dietrich in reports now. "*And I saw you speak to the other one before*", Adib comments slyly. "*They didn't speak with each other and have different clothes. So who are you, soldier?*" The German Captain evaluates how much to tell him to keep this intelligent and dangerous foe content without giving too much away. "*I belong to a third army*", he answers carefully weighing each word. "*I speak the language of both, as I speak your language.*" The slaver eyes him curously. "*Not many of you do. You're a leader of soldiers of your faction, aren't you?" Dietrich nods cautiously, as this would be hard to deny and the Arab grins widely. "You're also smart to know when to cooperate*", the chubby man assesses, studying the lighter skinned tall man intently from head to toe. "*You wouldn't consider a cooperation interesting, would you, soldier?*" Dietrich is honestly baffled now. "*A cooperation?*", he repeats with incredulity in his tone. "*You're smart and skilled. If you would work with us, you could have the women or girls you like*", the leisurely waves his hand in the direction of Marisha and the teenage girl, while he continues: "*you could get a camel for riding and enough food, something your mighty armies don't seem to have for you.*" With a sneer he points out the German's lean stature who tenses and proudly draws himself up to his full height, as a spark of anger appears in his brown eyes, while he still wrestles against his wounded pride.

This incredible offer adds insult to injury in Dietrich's eyes and he has to pull himself together to not outright attack the insolent Arab at least verbally. With pride clearly resounding in his tone the Captain answers sharply: "*I prefer to stay with my faction as you call them and to live in the slaves' tent, to walk on foot through this desert rather than to live of selling human beings.*" "*You'd rather kill them than keep them fed, clothed and sell them to others who would take care of them, while your soldiers detroy their homes, their water and kill their families. You have a strange sense of moral, soldier*", the chubby Arab replies sarcastically, as he eyes the tall European who has reacted in the way he has expected, but he has wanted to test anyways. "*Take him back to where he belongs!*", Adib orders and his man points the gun at the lean German guiding him back to the slaves' tent.

As they pass the other tent, Dietrich can hear cries of pain, whimpers and moans from the tent the Australian has been led into, Karim's tent as Dietrich assumes. Whatever is happening to him is not good and in spite of his previous notion to wait until the next day for their rescue, the German becomes more determined to act as soon as possible, but keep themselves and Kiri safe. Without his guard noticing, the German Captain takes careful stock of the camp, the tents, the animals and the positions of the guards, while he slowly walks back toward the slaves' tent. In addition to the slave tent, the leader Adib and his lead guard Karim have their own tents, while the other guards share a tent. A campfire in the center is manned by a night guard and another sits at a smaller fire close to the animals to watch that no slave escapes with one of their riding beasts. He knows that one additional guard is inside the slaves' tent. This would allow them to change guards twice or three times per night, if every single one of them serves as a nightwatch as well. With a frown the Captain still contemplates a plan how to escape with Kiri and her mother, as well as the two soldiers, although those could be freed after getting help. However he has promised the women their rescue and is not sure how to act upon that with Marisha being forced to spend the evening with the leader Adib. If the worst comes to worse he would need to escape with Hitchcock and Kiri to get help from his men and return for a rescue mission. The raiders' leader is smart and greedy enough to negotiate about freeing slaves and captives for money, rather than seeing any need not fight to the death.

Hitch is incredibly nervous since they have led the Captain outside along with the Australian soldier. Kiri seems even more tense than before, as she has pulled her knees under her chin and looks into the fire warily, but flinches at every sound. That he anything cannot see beyond a 5 feet distance as his vision blurs too badly because of the loss of his glasses in addition to the concussion impairs Mark greatly and causes him a bit more fear than he would have liked to admit, especially after the unexpected attack in the afternoon. In his current state he could neither fight against an attacker, nor see him in time to plan a reaction. When the tent exit rustles and two figures enter, Hitch sends a silent prayer to whichever divine power may wish to listen that this is Dietrich. And God seems to have mercy on him, as the tall German crouches beside him only a few seconds later and looks at both Hitchcock and Kiri frowning slightly. In spite of his stern expression, it is fairly obvious that the German officer is actually quite young, reminding Hitch that they are both of the same age, a strange trivia that he frequently forgets. However the young American is reminded of that fact now that the lean officer's expression turns more worried and concerned, as he looks at Mark. "Are you alright, Hitchcock?", Dietrich inquires, noticing the American's tense pose and worried expression. "Can't tell you how glad I am that you're back, Cap", Hitch replies honestly, not caring whether he will be admonished by the stern German Captain. The young officer observes him closely and refrains from any sarcastic reply he would normally have chosen when he notices the nervous note in the tone and still tense posture. Hitchcock is injured, barely able to defend himself and unable to see properly. Under the circumstances he is still keeping himself together quite well. Better than some of his Wehrmacht soldiers have. "Relax, Hitchcock! They will not harm us for now", Hans Dietrich tells the young American in a calm tone, carefully avoiding to tell him 'unlike others'.

Once Hitchcock appears somewhat calmer, the tall Captain turns toward Kiri who gazes at him with wide eyes. "*Don't worry, Kiri. I'm back and I will protect you, as I promised your mother. I just saw her and she is well*", he speaks in a reassuring tone, relieved that the girl smiles slightly, when he mentions her mother. "*Does your mother usually come back during the night?*", he dares to inquire carefully given her positive reaction. Kiri shakes her head. "*No. She only comes after the breakfast.*" Dietrich nods in understanding. This is more or less what he has feared. It makes a plan of freeing the slaves and turning against the raiders more difficult, if they hold some slaves as hostages, especially the girl's mother. "*We should lie down and sleep as well*", the German officer tells her, pointing at the sleeping figures around them, as most of the slaves have already lain down and fallen asleep from pure exhaustion. Kiri simply nods and huddles closer to the fire. "*Are you warm enough, Kiri?*", the young man asks with some worry in his tone. The girl seems somewhat surprised by the question. After a few moments of hesitation a shy smile passes over her face. "*It's warmer than the other nights, when I was could not be close to the fire.*" Hans nods and answers with a brief smile: "*Sleep well.*"

Then, he helps the Private to move closer to the fire, while observing their guard. The young Arab looks like a teenager himself and neither experienced nor battle-hardened, but rather tired, as he fights against falling asleep himself. This might actually help the German Captain with building a plan to escape. Mark lies down in the meantime and, noticing that he would draw unwanted attention, so does the lean officer. After letting silence settle down for a minute, Hans Dietrich moves his hand to inconspicuously reach into his jacket pocket and silently take out the lockpicking tools, the wrench and the rake. Rolling on his left side so that his body hides his hands' movements from the guards' view, the young officer starts to blindly work on picking the lock of his own shackles. Almost twenty minutes and countless unspoken curses in several languages later the lock finally relents and the German Captain breathes a sigh of relief. Listening intently, whether he can hear any reaction or movement of their guard, the young officer lets a full minute pass, before he cautiously tries to open and remove the shackles around his wrists.

Then he turns onto his back again and glances at Hitchcock who appears to have fallen asleep, before nudging the American with his boot. Hitch jerks awake and looks around frantically, unable to see what is going on. "Calm down, Hitchcock. It's just me", Dietrich whispers in a calming tone. "I'm sorry, Hitchcock, but I need you to turn over to face me. I know you have to lie on your right arm then, but I cannot reach your hands otherwise without our guard noticing." Hitch looks baffled and whispers: "What for?" Dietrich sighs wearily. Why can these American idiots not comply without any orders for once? "They didn't take my lock picks from me", he whispers quietly. Mark starts to grin, although his broken right arm hurts like hell, when he rolls onto his right shoulder. How could he forget that Dietrich is the lockpicking officer whose name actually means lockpick? Studying the German Captain's concentrated face, while he blindly works on the lock of his shackles, Mark whispers with a grin: "Next time I have to get Tully out of jail I'll take you along, Cap." Hans Dietrich deeply regrets being caught in this conversation and counters dryly: "When you say next time how many times has this happened already?" Hitch grins unperturbed, as he replies quietly: "About once a month. Every time we get a few days off." The German Captain closes his eyes briefly. If Hitchcock would not be suffering from shock and a concussion, he might realise that this is not the kind of information to share with your commanding officer. As the situation presents itself, he should better not take anything too seriously that he might hear, but definitely remember to stay as far away as possible from the Privates during their time on leave.

The tall officer works on the lock for a few minutes, as blindly picking locks is not something he has ever done before, but it is easier the second time around and working on somebody else's lock rather than his own. Therefor he is faster than he has been with his own shackles, although not much. Hitch observes the young German officer as he works with great concentration and effort which are visible on his face. Maybe he should learn lockpicking from Dietrich in addition to German, the Private reflects, realising how valuable this skill is right now. Since the Captain has agreed to train them that would be a great opportunity. Alternatively, he could go to Lakatos and invite him to a few beers in return for the lessons. Hitch hears the German officer sigh with relief, as he finally manages to open the lock with a soft click. "Wow", Hitch whispers impressed, as the lean Captain rolls back onto his back and closes his eyes briefly. Lying close enough, Hitch can see the beads of sweat on his forehead and how much of the previous tension has been relieved, as the German tries to recover from his hard work.

Almost a minute later Hans Dietrich finally opens his eyes again and observes their guard intently. The Arab has slumped against the tent wall and obviously fallen asleep, as nobody would sit in such a posture while awake. "We need to take him out", the German officer whispers, pointing in the guard's direction although he is not sure whether Hitchcock can see him at all. "I can't see him properly and I can't move my right arm", Hitch whispers back, angry at his own uselessness. "Stay here, Hitchcock! Use the shackles as weapon to hit someone, if they attack you. But don't hit Kiri!", the Captain orders quietly. "I will take my shackles to knock out the guard." "Shouldn't I come with you?", Hitch inquires. "We need to be absolutely silent, sneaking up on him. Since you cannot see properly, you are at risk to stumble and make noise", the German argues, sounding slightly unnerved at having his orders constantly questioned. The Yankees are wearing down his nerves. Hitch finally mutters his agreement to the first step of the escape plan, while Hans Dietrich cautiously gets on his knees, pushing himself up in a standing position, once he is assured that the guard is indeed asleep.

Then the Captain he silently picks up his own shackles, to use the metal rings like a morning star, while he holds the metal chains with his hands to keep them from creating any noise. Quietly, the German officer sneaks up on the guard. When the young man shifts slightly in his sleep, the Captain stops short and observes him with tensed muscles, ready to jump forward and strike at him should he wake up. But the Arab settles down again and the tall European takes the last few steps toward him silently. Dietrich knocks the guard over the head with the shackles in a single swift motion of his left arm and the Arab collapses immediately. However, many slaves in the tent are awake and aware now that something unexpected is happening. All of them observe at the unprecedented events and the tall Westerner with mixed emotions, ranging from shock to glee. Dietrich quickly checks the guard's state and finds that he is unconscious and not dead. After drawing the dagger from the sheath on the young man's belt, he unbuckles the belt and uses it the bind the guard's arms behind his back. Then, he unwinds the turban partially to use the cloth as a gag without suffocating the young Arab.

As the German Captain picks up the dagger and gun from the ground, Hitch approaches him and whispers: "Well done, Cap. What now?" "Now we have a gun, but none of us can wield it due to our injuries. Irony of fate", the tall officer says dryly. The teenage boys, who Dietrich has negotiated with previously, approach them as well and eye both soldiers with curiosity, admiration and fear. "*What's your name?*", Dietrich inquires of their leader who has been their spokesman during their campfire negotiations. "*Hussein*", the youngster answers automatically and eyes the tall man warily. "*Do you want to fight against the slavers who took your freedom, Hussein?*", the German Captain asks. The teenager looks baffled, but nods eagerly now. "*Yes, effendi*" "*Then swear to me in Allah's name that you will listen to my orders and not attack me and my allies. Then, I will take away your chains, give you the gun and you may fight with us.*" The youngster's eyes widen. "*I swear it. In Allah's name. I will fight for you and not harm you, effendi!*" After a moment of considering the honesty of his word, the Captain hands Hitchcock the gun and pulls out his lock picks. "*Get me a wooden log and some light!*", he orders one of the boys who complies immediately. Maybe they will make better soldiers than the Yankees when it comes to compliance with orders without unnecessary questions the German Captain reflects as he starts picking the locks of their shackles, while he explains their new alliance to Hitchcock. Mark had to admit that the young officer truly is the grandmaster of arranging a truce and unlikely alliance.

By the time Dietrich is finished with lockpicking, all three boys eye him with something like admiration at the mysterious skill and toolset freeing them from the locks and chains. "Give him the gun, Hitchcock! Hussein will fight for us with his friends", the German Captain orders and Hitch follows the command immediately this time. Maybe there is some hope to make a proper soldier out of him yet, Hans notes. "*We'll fight with you, effendi!*", Hussein answers with determination, as he takes the rifle. "*Let's fight them!*", another boy crows. "*Death to Adib and Karim!", the third teenager is enthused now. "*Shh. We need to stay silent. And take them out one by one*", the German Captain admonishes and puts his finger on his lips. "*Yes, effendi*", all three whisper eagerly. "*Follow me!*", Hans orders and the three teenagers come after him, as he returns to the fire. The German Captain frees only Kiri of her chains as well and orders all the other slaves who are awake by now and look utterly scared to stay silent, promising that they will all be free once the slavers have been defeated. The young Coptic girl looks utterly intimidated by the whole situation, but wants to come with her protector rather than stay alone in the tent of the slaves. Fortunately, remaining silent and unseen comes naturally to her.

"You were right Jack. The camp is beyond the dune." Sam Troy pats the British Sergeant on the shoulder in a show of respect. "You could really tell this from camel crap?", Danny O'Donnell asks incredulously. "I helped with a research project about the digestive system of camels during my PhD thesis", Jack replies with his best Cambridge lecture tone and the appropriate level of pride in his distinguished education. "Blimey. I know why I never want to go to college", Kevin comments with an expression that holds a mixture of disgust and admiration. "There's no college that would take you anyways, Kev!", his brother Danny comments sarcastically. "I got better grades than you, Danny!", Kevin counters and the brothers start one of their usual brotherly banters. "Just ignore them! Boys will always be boys. So how large is the camp?", Brown inquires of Sam Troy instead. "Four tents, several camels and horses at the side. There're lots of people down there", Sam Troy reports with a grim expression. Captain Brown scowls at the words. "I'd better take a look myself, before we start planning a strategy."

Remembering the camp's setting and the guards' positions well enough, Hans Dietrich instructs his allies: "*There is a single guard at the campfire in the center. Watch out, as he might walk around! A second guard is where the animals are kept.*" The teenagers nod eagerly and Hitch does so, once the German has repeated the information in English. "*We*", the Captain points at Hitchcock and himself, as he instructs the teenagers, "*will take care of the guard in the center. You sneak close to the animals and observe the guard there. Don't shoot! As soon as they hear a single shot the whole camp will be upon us. We try to take the guards out silently first, one by one. Wait for us by you attack. Once we have taken out all three gaurds, we have three rifles for all of you and can take care of their leader Adib and that mean guard Karim.*" The teenage boys look determined, as Hussein answers: "*We will observe him and not shoot as you say, effendi.*" "*Excellent. Go now! Kiri, you stay silent and with my friend!*", the German Captain instructs and then explains their intentions to Mark Hitchcock. "*You're gonna stab him, Cap?*", Hitch asks quietly. "Not if I can knock him out. But if he is a more attentive guard than the other one, stabbing him might be the only way to take him out quickly and silently", the tall officer replies grimly and Hitch nods. If they get caught, they might not expect any mercy from their captors, so they cannot have too many qualms either. They are soldiers after all and the Arabs have attacked them first and treat them as prisoners or slaves.

In the shadow of the tent the trio of Dietrich, Hitchcock and Kiri moves forward, while the trio of the Bedouin teenagers crawl in the direction of the animals' guard. A few seconds later, Dietrich can see the central camp fire, but no guard there. With clear worry, the German squints to try and make out some movement in the darkness, but cannot see anything. "Stay here!", he orders Hitch in English and repeats the order for Kiri in Arabic, before moving in the direction of the teenage boys. Without a central guard to see them, taking out the single man at the animals' resting place might be the best option and keeps the boys from doing anything stupid, as his trust in the teenagers' reasonability is rather limited. Hans finds the three crouched in a small sand vale that provides them with cover, as they observe the guard just like he has told them. The Arab guard is a lot more attentive than the young man in the slave tent has been and watches the surroundings carefully, standing up to walk around the camels' improvised paddock. The German Captain sees his patrol round as an opening to move closer to the guard's position at the campfire and get into hiding behind the first camels on the side he has disappeared to.

The young officer has counted on the man making a full circle and is as surprised to find himself close to the other man as is the Arab guard who has put down his guard to take care of his bodily needs behind a dry desert grass bushel. With mere moments to act, before the camp is woken, the German Captain jumps forward and rams the dagger in his hand into the other man's throat to keep him from crying out. With a desperate gurgling sound, the Arab guard collapses backward, finding his end quickly. Frantically, Dietrich listens whether any sounds have given him away and he can hear cries of alarm or approaching feet, but the night stays quiet except for some noises from the tents which have already been audible before. Finally assured that they remain undiscovered, he draws the dagger from the dead Arab's throat and cleans it on the man's robes, before taking the guard's own dagger from the belt to arm Hitchcock accordingly. Now, he can hear footsteps behind him, and as he whirls around, he finds himself face to face with the three teenagers, Hussein and his two friends. "*You can take the second gun*", he tells the youngsters and one of them moves forward to pick up the gun, while looking at him expectantly. "*I didn't see the third guard*", the tall European tells them sternly. "*I will take care of him, once he is back at his post. Are you good with handling animals?*" The teenagers nod. The German Captain smiles grimly. "*Good. Then you will lead their animals away silently and hide them behind the next dune. One of you stays there to guard them, the others drive the rest of the beasts there, but remember to always stay silent! Rather take fewer animals at once than make too much noise*" Hussein nods. "*Don't worry, effendi. We're good with handling camels and horses.*" His two friends nod equally determined. Out of habit, the Captain salutes to them and aware that this is some show of respect the three try to imitate the gesture. The German has to admit that he has seen some of the American soldiers perform worse salutes than Hussein and his friends, before he turns to sneak back to the camp.

As he takes cover behind Karim's tent, he can hear indistinct noises from inside. When the noises move from the guard leader's tents to outside however, they draw the Captain's attention and he takes extra care to remain in the shades of Adib's, as he observes an Arab and the Wehrmacht soldier drag the Australian soldier out of the tent who is barely able to remain on his feet. With both hands occupied to handle the prisoner, the guard cannot defend himself easily and Dietrich sees his chance for a surprise attack, hoping that the German will not antagonise him for providing his rescue, although he is suspiciously cooperative with the Arabs. Letting the men take a few steps away from the tent, the Captain swiftly moves behind the guard and cuts the man's throat, before he is even fully aware of what has happened to him. Along with the dead guard, the German stumbles and finds himself unable to support the Australian prisoner all alone. While the Wehrmacht soldier Meier looks shocked and horrified, as they also sink to the ground and he sees the Arab's cut throat, the LRDP solder appears unaware and uncaring that the Arab's blood runs over him. "Soldat Meier, ich versuche, Sie hier heraus zuholen. Helfen Sie, ihn wegzubringen, ins Sklavenzelt", Dietrich points at the Australian, as he instructs the German to help bring him away to the slaves' tent, arguing that he is trying to rescue them. "Jack Young", the German Captain speaks with the shell shocked Australian urgently. "You need to get up and come with us! We'll get you out of here." "Too late, Sir", the man whimpers with actual tears running from his eyes. "I'll already burn in hell."

Before the officer gets a chance to reply to this desperate statement an explosion of the tent the men have just come out of throws him off his feet and lands him in the sand knocked prone and unconscious for several seconds, before he comes to disoriented, while his ears ring loud enough to be unable to truly make out anything. Then, the noise of shots ringing out and cries of anger, pain and naked fear find their way into his half-faded consciousness. Somebody grabs his left shoulder, turns him on his back and shakes him. The German blinks several times, until his blurred vision becomes clear enough to recognize the man before him, Sam Troy. Briefly, the Captain reflects whether he might have died and landed in purgatory where Troy is to torment him for all eternity, before he regains his senses and normal intelligence and concludes that somehow the Sergeant has caught up with them and decided to launch an attack at nighttime rather than the next morning which should not surprise him, considering Troy is an experienced commando soldier with a plethora of experience with nightly combat action.

"Captain", Troy repeats for the third time, shaking the German's shoulder he has gripped a bit tighter than necessary in worry about the younger man. The lean officer bears a few bruises on his face, but otherwise appears unharmed. But the explosion has thrown him off his feet rather roughly and when the Captain has remained lying on his stomach Troy has actually become worried and left the coordination of the attack to Browny to look after his friend. Hitch with Kiri close behind him stumbles up to him now and asks: "Is Cap alright?" Dietrich groans slightly, as he comes to terms with the situation of Troy and the Rats miraculously appearing and blowing up the camp, as is their specialty. Then, the realization dawns on him that a few slaves like Kiri's mother are insde the slavers' tents as well. "Don't just blow up the tents!", the Captain calls out, trying to make it to his feet which mainly succeeds, because Troy helps him up and supports him to remain standing. "We already blew up one and shot at the others we were sure belonged to the slavers. We saw you and the guards walk in and out", Troy tries to calm him. "You don't understand, Troy. They force the slave women to share their beds with them. By shooting at anybody inside the tents you killed the innocent along with the guilty!", the German argues with clear desperation in his tone.

Troy looks grim at this realization. "We didn't see any of them go in and out during the night, only you and the Aussie soldier now. We waited with our attack until he was out of the tent. Besides, it's too late now anyways." "No", the young officer cries out in disbelief. "Calm down, Captain!", Troy tells the clearly distraught German, grabbing the tall man as he stumbles forward in the direction of the leader's tent. "Let me go, Troy!", the Captain snarls. "The girl's mother was in this tent. I gave my word to protect her daughter and get them both out of here, if I can. I need to check, if she is still alive." Sam notices Kiri who stands half hidden behind Hitch for the first time, as his hyperfocused mind has clearly identified her as onothreatening and non-combat-relevant. "We'll check for survivors, Captain. But you remain here. You're barely able to stay on your feet and I've already worried enough about you for a day", the American Sergeant argues sternly. Although his instinct cries for him to just get out of the other's grip and start looking for Marisha, his reasonable side agrees with Troy's assessment and accepts others taking care of this task. "Fine, Troy. Order the men to look for the women... And thank you", the young officer finally grits out after wrestling his inner turmoil under control. "Tully, Gotty, Danny, Kevin, Micky. Look for survivors in the tents! The Captain says there were women with the slavers", Troy bellows his orders to the soldiers who start searching through the tents' remains immediately.

Hans Dietrich who has mostly recovered from being knocked out by the explosion turns toward Kiri now. The little girl looks utterly scared and the German Captain speaks very calmly with her: "*Kiri, we will look for your mother now. I promised to keep you safe and no harm will come to you. These are my friends and they will not harm you. Do you understand?*" Although she still stares at him with wide fear filled eyes, the girl nods. "*Good. I will speak with the others and take care of the slaves. You can stay here or come with me*", he offers her. After a few moments of consideration, the girl takes a few steps closer to him and whispers shyly: "*I want to come with you, Ioannes.*" Dietrich nods, slightly relieved that in spite of everything she trusts him enough to come with him willingly. Troy observes the whole scene incredulously, before inquiring sarcastically: "Are you adopting kids again?" "Hopefully not, if her mother survived. I have no idea how I should look after a Bedouin girl in the middle of a war", the German replies grimly.

"Effendi, effendi!", Hussein shouts, as he comes running down the dune behind which they have hidden the camels. "Don't shoot!", Dietrich bellows an order for the Rats and Aussies, before shouting the same command for the boys. "*Don't shoot! These are my soldiers*", he adds for the teenagers' benefit. The youngsters come closer with the rifles in their hands, looking intimidated, when they find Pettigrew, Gottschlich, Moffit and Brown point their rifles at them. "They are slaves who fought with us", the German Captain adds as an explanation now and finally they also lower their guns. "*We hid the camels as you said, effendi*", Hussein reports dutifully stepping closer to the tall Captain. "*Well done. You were truly brave and more than earned your freedom. We will bring you to the closest oasis where you can return to your lives*", the European officer offers magnanimously. "*I want to stay and fight for you, effendi*", Hussein declares and his friend agree. "*Yes, so do we.*" Dietrich closes his eyes, looking desperate, and takes a deep breath. Jack Moffit who is curious about the interaction between the Captain and the teenagers has approached them by now. "*Return to your families and your village, Hussein, all of you. Don't throw away your life for a war that is not yours!*", the European soldier admonishes the boys with a haunted tone in his voice.

"*But my family is dead and my village burnt down. There is only this war and you're an honorable warrior, one worth fighting for*", Hussein argues. The German officer shakes his head in slight disbelief. "*I cannot send children to fight in a war. How old are you even?*", he inquires. "*I don't know, but I'm not a child, but a man*", Hussein replies proudly. This is an attitude Dietrich respects and he argues: "*I didn't want to offend you, Hussein. But our laws say that I must not let anybody fight who is less than 18 years old.*" "*Then I'm 18 years old*", Hussein replies stubbornly. The German Captain looks toward Jack Moffit in a desperate plea for help. "*We sometimes hire local scouts. But this will not be for us to decide, but our superiors*", the British Sergeant comes to the haggard looking officer's aid who actually looks grateful about the argument his befuddled and exhausted mind has not been able to come up with anymore. "*We will take you with us, but our commanders will decide about your wish to work for our military*", the German supports the good idea and Hussein nods in acceptance. "*You can prove your worth and show our soldiers Jack Moffit, who also speaks your language, and Michael Lakatos the other slaves in the tent, so that they can free them of the chains and you help them outside*", Dietrich orders. Jack nods in approval at the good idea and calls Lakatos over, while the German is questioned by Hussein. "*We will prove our worth, effendi. We heard your soldiers' names now, but we never heard yours. What is your name?*" "*I am called Hans Dietrich, my title in the military is 'Captain'*", the Captain replies proudly. "*Hans Dietrich.*", Hussein repeats the name giving it a clearly Arabic pronunciation that makes it sound almost oriental. "*I know you are called Hussein. What are your friends' names?*" "*I'm Shakir*", the second one bearing a rifle answers. "*I'm Farooq*", the third one replies. "*Go with Moffit, Hussein, Shakir and Farooq and behave well!*", the German officer orders sternly, before turning back to Troy.

The American Sergeant has meanwhile focused on Hitch and let the young Private summarise what has happened to them. A groan draws his attention to the Australian and German soldier who have both been knocked prone and unconscious by the previous explosion and are gradually coming back to their senses. The Wehrmacht soldier looks utterly scared by the American and whimpers something incomprehensible that might be a plea for his life. "Soldat Meier", Dietrich bellows, as he steps back to the group. At his command tone the German soldier huddles to his feet and stands at attention immediately, saluting to the officer. "Herr Hauptmann", the German answers in a well-trained automatism. "Was hat sich zugetragen zwischen Ihnen, dem Araber und dem Australischen Soldaten?", the Captain inquires what has happened between the Arab guard and the two soldiers. "Ich musste teilnehmen, Herr Hauptmann", the man whimpers that he had to participate. "Er hätte mich sonst bestraft. Der Tommy hat sich nicht gewehrt oder geschert." The argument that he would have been punished and that the Aussie has not resisted or cared does nothing to appease the German Captain who glares at the Wehrmacht soldier. "Sie sind ein rückgratloser Feigling und eine Schande für jeden ehrbaren deutschen Soldaten." Dietrich looks livid, as he snarls at the German who shrinks back with a whimper, accusing him of being a spineless coward and shame for any honorable German soldier. In the direction of the Australian soldiers, the Captain barks his command: "Arrest the man! He is a POW and a criminal. And also arrest the remaining guard I left bound and gagged in the slaves' tent." At his tone Daniel and Kevin O'Donnell obey immediately, while their Captain Brown approaches his younger colleague now, asking with a grim expression: "What was that about?" "Come with me to the side, Brown. We should discuss this without the men in earshot", the German Captain replies with a dark expression of his own. Brown looks surprised and even more worried at this suggestion that promises nothing good.

After Hans Dietrich has summarised his observations and suspicions to the Australian Captain, Brown looks actually shocked. "We should have killed that pervert more slowly!", he growls. "You're neither sadists nor murderers, Brown. And I don't want your men to lynch the German soldier either", the young Captain argues with true conviction. "He's is a coward and has committed crimes against decency, but he was a prisoner and slave himself, not the one who initiated the treatment of Private Young. I don't want to see your men becoming murderers. There's no honor in killing him and it helps the young soldier in no possible way", he leads his desperate argumentation. "I can start to see why the SS wanted to see you dead for being too much a bloody moralist, Dietrich", Brown replies. "But I agree with you, even though I despise and loath this worthless excuse for a human being." "Believe me that I hold no personal sympathy for him either and scorn the man and his ways no less than you do, Brown", the German officer growls. "But I'm still true to my principles and I cannot just stand by and let them murder a prisoner." "You're a good guy. I'm sorry to tell you that none of the slaves made it out of those tents alive. We found four women among the dead", Brown replies and Dietrich's expression turns tormented, as he looks down at Kiri who has followed him, although she is unable to understand them. "How can I tell her that her mother is gone and will never return?", he asks with desperation clearly audible from his tone. "You did pretty well with the Jewish boy Ari. You'll manage with the girl as well. She already trusts you", Brown tries to reassure his younger colleague who looks uncharacteristically downcast.

Crouching before the girl, Dietrich meets her eyes, before clearing his throat. Nonetheless he sounds a bit hoarse, when speaking to her. "*Kiri, I need to tell you something about your mother.*" The child looks at him expectantly now. "*Will we save her now?*", she asks innocently. Hans closes his eyes briefly and swallows hard. "*Kiri, we cannot save your mother. She ... is gone and will never come back.*" Kiri stares at him incredulously now. "*But she always comes back in the morning.*" The German is truly suffering, as he continues to explain: "*Kiri, your mother is dead.*" Now the girl looks utterly perplexed and apparently is too shocked to even cry. "*I promised your mother that I will protect you and take care you*", the Captain struggles to sound somewhat calm and reassuring. "*Do you know of any uncles or aunts you have somewhere, maybe living in one of the oases closeby? Did you travel to meet with your family?*" Kiri does not answer, but simply stares straight ahead in obvious shock. Dietrich winces, when he feels a touch on his shoulder. "Leave her be. The girl's in shock. Let her sleep and talk to her again tomorrow", Brown advises calmly. Looking at the lean German's haggard face, he adds with clear sympathy: "And you look like you need the sleep as well, lad." The proud young officer narrows his eyes at being called 'lad', but refrains from protesting loudly and lets the Australian help him to his feet, when he feels the world around him swaying dangerously, as he tries to get up. "Stubbornness will only get you so far, Dietrich", Brown admonishes wisely. "You'd better come with us now."

Jack Moffit has directed Lakatos and their three young helpers to free the slaves and lead them toward their own camp where they have parked the Jeeps behind the dunes and he sends the boys off to retrieve the animals which they do eagerly. Tully has guided Hitch to their camp already and the O'Donnell brothers have taken care of arresting the Wehrmacht soldier and the Arab guard, before returning to support their Australian comrade Private Young to walk with them, leaning on Danny O'Donnell, while Kevin keeps pointing his gun at Meier and the last Arab. Only Troy and Brown remain with Dietrich and Kiri, as the Sergeant steps toward the group as well. "You look like you've already waltzed through hell today, Captain", the American Sergeant comments. "Save yourself the irony, Troy!", the German snaps back with his nerves totally wrecked. Out of spite he tries to stalk off and would have collapsed after the fifth step, if Sam Troy would not have caught him. "You're still a stubborn Jerry smartass, Dietrich", he admonishes the younger man whose body has finally decided to give in to its fatigue and exhaustion, now that the adrenaline has completely worn off. Without an answer the tall German's head rolls to the side and his eyes back in his head. Brown grabs him under the other shoulder and helps his protege to carry the unconscious younger Captain for a few steps, as Kiri starts to follow them as well.

When the German does not regain consciousness within a half a minute Troy decides to lay him on the ground, so that he can pick up and carry the taller man over his shoulders. Having the direct comparison to the young officer's weight three weeks ago, when they have rescued the skinny Captain from the SS he notices hardly any difference. "Stubborn like a mule", Sam complains. "Just like someone else I know", Brown counters. "I'm not that stubborn", Troy grumbles. "That's true, Sammy. You're even worse", the Australian Captain counters dryly. When they see Brown and Troy approach with their load and the shy, crying girl in tow the O'Donnell brothers rush to action and lay out a blanket to put the unconscious German on. "Is he alright?", Hitch cries out frantically and jumps up from his own treatment which earns him an uncharacteristically stern reprimand from Tully. "What happened to Captain Dietrich? Was he injured during the accident?", Moffit inquires cautiously. "I don't think so", Hitch replies meekly. "They knocked out though, when he stood up to defend me and he collapsed a little while before dusk, 'cause they didn't give him water as a punishment. And the mean guard kicked him in the ribs a few times." Jack and Sam exchange worried glances now. "We'd better check him for broken ribs and internal bleeding", Moffit advises and Danny nods. "I can do that, since Tully's occupied with Hitch." "He's our Chief Medic in the field", Brown adds as an explanation.

Troy has meanwhile laid his unconscious load on the blanket and starts to open the younger officer's jacket and shirt now, while Daniel O'Donnell takes the stethoscope from their First Aid kit. After checking the German's eyes and pulse at the neck, the Aussie comments: "His pulse is just fine, but the skin's a bit warm, which is pretty normal after hours of walking in the sun." Then he checks the young officer's ribcage, when he notices the two sets of dog tags. "Why does he still wear the German tag?", Danny asks looking to Troy with a puzzled expression. "The Captain's never stopped being a German officer, he's just finished with fighting for the Nazis and turned against them. That's what he told the General", Troy answers with a grim expression. "Makes kinda sense", Kevin comments, while Danny merely shrugs and comments: "Takes guts to tell that to a Yankee General though." "That lad definitely has guts. But the fellow's still really skinny. Do you Yankees feed him at all?", Brown comments with a half grin. "Getting him to keep his mealtimes is about as easy as herding cats", Troy complains. "He always has something to take care of, while everyone else is already sitting at the table. It's better since Silberblatt and the boy, Ari, force him to share meals with us though."

Meanwhile Danny listens to the German Captain's heart beat and breathing, and is checking several bruised areas where the Arab's boots have hit the young officer or he has suffered from the accident. "That fellow has the constitution of an ox", the Irish descended Australian finally diagnoses. "He's a bit bruised, but bones and organs are all fine and he's not even running a fever after the sunstroke." Troy breathes a sigh of relief and Hitch grins like a madman. "Cap always told me not to worry, we'd make it out of this hellhole alive." "Since when do you treat Dietrich's word like the bible, Hitch?", Sam asks with a grin. "Since he supported me all the way on this march through hell, Sarge", Hitch answers with a pained expression. "It's pretty tough, when you know you're injured, can't defend yourself and can't even see anything. And I more or less leaned on his shoulder, as long as he's been standing and conscious himself." "Don't worry, Hitch. We'll patch you both up and it'll all be okay", Troy comments, patting the young Private on the shoulder. "But first, we'd better catch up with some sleep." "We'll take care of the nightwatch", Brown remarks. "You give blankets to everyone and get your beautysleep. You look like you all need it, especially you, Sammy." "Yeah. I like you too, Browny", Sam replies with a grin. "Off to bed, boys!"