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!)

52. Let no good deed go unpunished!

Dietrich's way splits from Troy's and Moffit's, as he wants to turn to the office building, while the Sergeants return to the rest of their unit in the mess hall. Loud shouts and laughter from the direction of the motorpool catch his attention after crossing the courtyard though. Ari and Kiri run around the camp, playfully trying to catch each other, until Hans Dietrich calls them sternly. "Ari, Kiri. What are you doing?", the German Captain asks with a strict tone. "We play tag. David told us about it", the Jewish boy replies with an innocent smile. The young officer's expression darkens immediately. David Troy is a menace, even when he is bound to his sickbed, infecting the children with nonsense like this. Whatever insanity has invaded his mind to promise to help this accursed thorn in his side? "It's dangerous, when you run around the camp like this", the German tells Ari and Kiri with a controlled tone. "A vehicle might hit you, because they did not see you." Both hang their heads sadly which causes Hans to consider how he can allow the children to play in a safe manner. "You can play where they park the Jeeps, when one or two of us are around, like Sam Troy or Jakob Silberblatt or Mark Hitchcock", he suggests. "Will you play with us?", Ari asks, more hopeful at the idea now. The German officer is a little taken aback, but sees no harm in this at least for a few minutes, as Boggs has given him no precise time for reporting. "If at least one person can always keep watch, you can ask the others to join you to play, if they want", Hans still evades the question. Both children grin widely now and start to follow their brother to where they have parked the Jeeps.

"Will you play with us then, Hans?", Ari insists to know, as he walks beside his brother, tugging his shirt hem. "I'm still injured", the Captain replies cautiously, rubbing his aching right shoulder. "We won't hurt you. We promise, Hans", Ari argues and Kiri nods in agreement and support of her little brother, although she does not understand everything. "Please", she adds and applies her best imitation of Fritz' puppy eyes. Sighing wearily, the young officer finally gives in and nods. "Fine. I will play with you for a while, but you must let me go, when I need to return to my duties." A bit unexpectedly for him, both of them grab him from each side around the waist to hug him, muttering an accented, but enthusiastic "Thank you". This brings a gentle smile back to the young man's face. Running around with them for a few minutes should not harm his injuries too badly and it really means a lot to them, giving him back their happiness and gratitude in return.

"Hey, Cap", Tully Pettigrew greets the German Captain from the back of his Jeep where he has still been occupied with handling their equipment which Gottschlich and Silberblatt hand to him with Eric Turner helping out voluntarily. "Good day, Pettigrew. I see you're already back to work, gentlemen", Dietrich greets him back and nods to the others. "Where's Hitchcock? He was supposed to look after the children." "He needed to discuss something ... personal", Jakob intercedes cautiously. "We promised to look after Ari and Kiri in the meantime." Dietrich scowls. "Leaving them to run around between vehicles is far from safe, Jakob!", he scolds his friend sternly who has always had a tendency for misbehaving himself. "My apologies, Hans. As I told you, watching two children is a bit overwhelming for me", Jakob replies, actually sounding apologetic. "But apparently commanding a kindergarten is becoming my speciality", Dietrich replies dryly. "Which reminds me, have Troy and Moffit joined you?" "You miss us already, Captain?", Sam Troy calls from where he emerges between two tents, grinning widely. "Didn't you want to leave to report to Boggs?"

Hans suppresses the urge to roll his eyes at the useless comment, intent to preserve his dignity at least in his own eyes. "Independent of how much I would enjoy not hearing such moronic comments, Troy, I came across Ari and Kiri running around the camp and I told them that they are only allowed to play their games of chasing each other when one of us is around to watch over them", the German Captain replies dryly. Ari and Kiri stay at his side, but watch the others expectantly. "We should play tag with them?", Troy asks, slightly baffled, which Hans at least enjoys somewhat, considering how often the American takes him by surprise with his escapades and that his brother has initiated this game in the first place. "You don't have to play, although they would enjoy that. But since childish games are the expertise of Hitchcock, you can also leave it to him, once he's back from wherever he is", Dietrich answers with a dry tone at which Tully, Jakob, Jack and Sam are grinning. "I can do some running and play with them", Pettigrew takes them by surprise by being the first to offer his participation. "Me too", Riku Gottschlich adds softly, looking somewhat unsure. "I have a little brother", he adds with a shy smile. Ari beams at both of them and Kiri tries her new vocabulary by replying: "Thank you."

"Do you play with us as well, Hans? Please!", Ari asks his brother calmly. "What are the rules?", the young German officer asks calmly. "If you get caught you need to catch one of the others", Ari replies what he can remember from David Troy's description. "Let's also arrange that you do not run away from the parked vehicles and you stop immediately, when you hear a motor", the German suggests gently. "Then I'm less worried. Also no climbing on Jeeps and if one of us is on a Jeep, we are out of the game." Ari and Kiri nod in agreement and Tully climbs down from the Jeep, while Troy takes over his position, grinning widely. "Good. So we start with you doing the catching", Hans suggests and points at Ari who nods enthusiastically. Taking a few steps closer to Gottschlich and Pettigrew, he mutters quietly: "Let them win from time to time." Both smile and nod at their Captain. As they are both familiar with having younger siblings, this is not an alien concept for them.

Ari immediately dashes toward his brother who deftly dodges to the side a few times, before slowing down to allow the child to catch him. Winking at the children, he turns around and takes Riku Gottschlich by surprise, when he runs toward him and touches his shoulder lightly with his left arm. Leaving the Captain be, the young soldier chases after the two children who scream and giggle with joy, as they run away. Eric Turner watches the whole scene slightly incredulously, while Jack Moffit bears an expression of disapproval, muttering "Childish nonsense" under his breath. Sam Troy bears a grin and looks forward to the entertainment that will surely come through this, while Jakob Silberblatt enjoys to see his friend looking as carefree as he has in their youth, smiling and laughing. When Kiri gets caught and chases after Ari who in turn then goes after Dietrich again, the German jumps onto the bumper of the Jeep and on the back next to a slightly surprised Troy in a single swift motion they have seen him perform once already. "That's unfair!", the boy protests. "I need to leave the game and report to Captain Boggs. Play with the others, Ari!", Hans counters coolly. Although a bit miffed, Ari turns around and chases Tully who allows the boy to catch him after some time. Playing tag with their brother and his soldiers is promising to turn into a new favourite pastime for Ari and Kiri.

"You could qualify for an actual circus with this stunt, Captain", Troy comments with a grin, patting the tall young man on his left shoulder. "It even saved you from Major Bracken once", Moffit adds with an amused expression. "Something several people in camp might give an arm and a leg for as it seems." "I don't see the special qualification, gentlemen", Dietrich counters dryly. "You all have to get into the back of these murderous machines regularly." "Yeah. But I'd never manage to do it in a single jump with only one auxiliary step, Captain", Troy argues. "We should place you at the gun more often, when your shoulder has finally heals." The German officer grimaces, as the thought of standing at the automatic gun of the accursed Jeeps is not the most attractive perspective for him. "I won't take away your well-established battle positions, Troy", he thus replies dryly. "You stay with your guns and I keep my seat in the front where I can sit comfortably."

"As if you'd do that", Troy counters. "I've never seen anyone else stand up in a moving vehicle as often as you do." "We could even spot you from large distances, when leading your convoys, as you were the only German officer we've ever met with this habit", Jack Moffit supports his fellow Sergeant. "And we've definitely never seen any Brit, Aussie or Yankee officer ever do that", Troy adds. Dietrich scowls, as he argues: "With the windscreen reducing my sight, it's the only option for gaining a regular overview and watching out for dangers. This has become a lot less relevant and necessary with your Jeeps, given their speed which makes standing up almost impossible during the ride." "You know I'll start calling you Captain Hawkeye, if you start doing this regularly", Troy threatens his friend good-naturedly with another nickname. "Don't you dare, Sergeant! The nicknames you've already established require no further company!", the German Captain growls sternly. "You'd better report to Captain Boggs now, before he starts worrying", Jack Moffit reminds their young CO who actually thanks him for the possibility to escape this situation with his dignity more or less intact.

Crossing the courtyard, the German Captain walks up the stairs to the office of the caravanserai commander. After knocking, the lean officer waits for a few seconds until he is called inside by James Boggs who eyes the younger man with some relief, when he finally arrives. By now the American Captain is familiar with the notion that Hans Dietrich is a magnet for trouble in the league of Sam Troy and his Rats, but his precarious status of health after torture and starvation makes him more vulnerable than the resilient Yankee. Major Turner who has studied the collection of passports together with General Atkins and Captain Brown looks up and greets the newcomer: "Captain Dietrich. It's good that you finally joined us. You have provided us with quite a collection of interesting documents and leads. Please add your report of today's events!" Hans is not in the least surprised by the request and reports diligently how he has come across the killed guardsmen, been confronted by the French resistance fighters and finally identified the motorcyclist fleeing from their base, leaving out the precarious situation with the British student deliberately, as it is unrelated to the military relevant events. "We could confirm by now that the man has not been a member of Captain Stadler's troops, but a courier sent from the neighbouring base who was at his base at the time of the takeover", Boggs informs him at which Dietrich nods and replies: "That is consistent with his military file, summarised in his Wehrpass. Do we know what kind of messages he delivered?" "Captain Stadler was rather tight-lipped regarding the matter", Boggs replies with a scowl.

Major Turner beckons the lean German Captain toward their table. "We can make an educated guess however. We received encrypted messages already yesterday in the evening and further confirmation this morning that Allied troops are currently putting the German held oasis under siege", the American officer explains, while pointing at a map rolled out on the office desk. The German Captain looks astonished, but also angry, as he growls: "Why have I not been informed earlier?" "Because you were off duty yesterday and left the base before most have even risen from their beds today, Captain Dietrich", James Boggs intercedes sternly, before the proud young officer lets his temper get the better of him. Meeting the American's gaze, Hans tries to discern his honesty, until he finally nods and concedes: "Of course, Captain Boggs. Forgive my tone. Do we know the troop size and exact situation at the siege?" "Headquarters have sent a New Zealand regiment which has been decimated by the recent battle at El Alamein and some other smaller units which General Montgomery decided to leave behind, while hunting the Axis forces who are retreating to El Agheila", General Atkins explains sternly, pointing out the troop movements on the map. Dietrich nods with a grim expression, registering that they apparently trust him enough by now to share such critical information with him, before he inquires cautiously: "With the main German and Italian force already retreated to El Agheila which is further West than my last command post and Agedabia even, there is little hope for the besieged troops to receive any support from their own side at all. Wouldn't negotiating with their commander be a reasonable option under the circumstances rather than getting countless men killed unnecessarily?"

Atkins bears a sly expression, as he twirls his moustache. "They have nobody with your credibility and reputation to negotiate there, Captain Dietrich, but I intend to give you your chance to end this siege without much further bloodshed, unless our men there can break it before we reach them. However, they suspect that the Germans have established some sort of secret supply route, as they have refused to negotiate with them at all and still appear extremely well-supplied." "Who exactly is commanding the siege and the fort?", Dietrich asks with a scowl. "I cannot tell you who is commanding the Germans, but Lieutenant Colonel Charles Bennett from the Maori Battalion commands the siege", Atkins replies coolly, observing the German's reaction who tenses visibly and mutters: "Die Skalpjäger?" Aware that everybody in the room is staring at him by now, Hans clears his throat, before speaking more loudly and clearly: "Fieldmarshal Rommel called them 'scalp-hunters' for their fierce fighting style. No wonder the commander will hold out to the last man, when the men he fights against have the reputation of killing everybody without distinction and fighting with the fierceness of feral animals." "It is absurd to assume that we would deploy savages into a warzone!", Atkins protests angrily. "I'm not voicing my own opinion on the men, as I don't even know them, but I merely try to explain to you the position and perspective of the German base commander and his reasons for being unwilling to surrender under the circumstances", Dietrich replies coolly, narrowing his eyes. "Dietrich's always been fair and open with Williamson, my Sergeant, and he's a fellow most Jerries consider a savage as well, well not just the Jerries, even several of your own lads out there treat him like that", Brown rises to the young German's defence who stares at him with honest surprise.

Atkins looks from one Captain to the other, before declaring: "I don't care about your opinion on our unusual troopers, as long as this doesn't affect your missions. And your mission and first priority will be to find this hidden German supply line. That's what they need the LRDG for. Do you think my reputation will suffice to convince the German base commander to negotiate with me, Captain Dietrich?" The German officer cocks his head and swallows a sharp remark in reply to the harsh statement, focusing on the question and their missions instead. Antagonizing a General will not do him any good and he has not sunk to Troy's level of lack of control in front of a superior officer. "It will definitely be better than the current alternative, but I'm not convinced it will suffice, especially, if they have a secret supply line, General." Atkins studies the young officer's bruised face, evaluating his honesty, until he finally nods curtly. "We will send any Jeep of the LRDP out there to look for this supply depot. Captain Boggs, you're required for coordinating and securing the convoy. Captain Dietrich and Brown, you will coordinate the patrol units of both armies during the search. I expect you two to work fast enough to be able to join us as soon as possible, as well as to work together as diligently as you did in the past", the American General orders, twirling his moustache. Dietrich and Brown exchange a long gaze, before both nod. "Your Jerry Fox has worked well with us in the past", the Australian comments jovially, while the German scowls at the first part and growls: "Brown!"

"Before you leave, I want you to look through the documents we confiscated from the base commander, Dietrich", Captain Boggs addresses his younger colleague. The lean officer nods in agreement. "I can quickly look through them and tell you what is irrelevant and what might be relevant, possibly even to help with our search", Hans replies diligently. "Is the map you have just shown me Hauptmann Stadler's or your own map, General?" Atkins looks surprised by the question, before replying: "Our own map. Why do you ask, Captain?" "Because Stadler might have a map which contains some hints that could help us with locating the secret German hideout and potential routes, if he has been aware of them", Dietrich argues, while Atkins eyes him almost as proudly as a teacher does his model student, as he comments: "Hiring one of Rommel's junior foxes has been an excellent idea, it would appear." Boggs nods in agreement, but seeing his second in command scowl with annoyance, intercedes: "The maps from the German base are over there." Grateful for the interference, Hans turns toward the shelf Boggs is pointing him to. With practiced expertise, the young German looks through the maps, before rolling out one which shows the closer area of where they are now and studying it intently. Brown and Boggs as well as Turner and Atkins join him to look curiously at the map.

"Dat is en Begünn sünner Enn", the youngest Captain finally grumbles with frustration. Tensing, when Brown places a hand on his uninjured shoulder, the tall officer explains sternly: "This is unfortunately rather pointless." Drawing a circle with the index finger of his left hand, he continues: "Stadler has marked minefields in the area within a radius of three days from here in the Western direction, but we have already been aware of their locations from the last days. In the Eastern direction where we are going now, there is almost no useful additional information, no markings whatsoever." To verify this, he holds up the map against the light to see if any markings have been erased or hidden, but still finds nothing in addition. "It was a good idea to check this though", Boggs tries to assure him. "I will bring you the documents now." Dietrich sighs wearily and nods, before adopting a rather fatalistic expression. "Also, there is an additional request I have to bring to your attention, gentlemen, in particular you, Major, General." Atkins and Turner look baffled and curious.

"Major Bracken has demanded my presence in the sickbay to discuss yesterday's unfortunate events", the German Captain starts out, cautiously choosing his words. None of the other officers appears amused with the exception of Captain Brown who bears a sarcastic smile. "During my visit to the officer's ward, Captain David Troy has pleaded with me to relay his request to you, gentlemen, that he wishes to join the U.S. army after suffering the entire load of British frustration at the Major's hands." Atkins looks fairly amused, as he twirls his moustache, while Major Turner scowls at the suggestion. Brown hides his laugh behind a cough, while Boggs looks crestfallen. "David Troy wants to change his army to the U.S. which are his homeland? Do you have any idea who you're talking about, Captain?", the American Major inquires with open incredulity to which Dietrich counters sarcastically: "Do you have any idea who you're speaking with, Major? Nobody knows better than me that both Troy brothers are infinite sources of trouble, from the perspective of an enemy, an ally and a commanding officer. However, leaving David Troy in the Royal Air Force and thus in Major Bracken's responsibility will be a source of immense troubles for the rest of this journey as well and I cannot imagine that he will not stir further trouble among the British troops. The Major was close to murdering him and only his injuries, forcing him to stay in bed, have prevented this. Captain Troy was offering me defection and desertion whichever would save him first." Turner's head has turned red by now, while Atkins chuckles, as he twirls his moustache. "Do you honestly think that taking David Troy into the U.S. army is a good idea, Captain Dietrich?", General Atkins finally inquires with a lurking expression. The German Captain has to control himself not to grimace at the answer. "I honestly think that the man has his merits, especially as a pilot, and that he fits in with the U.S. troops far better than with the Brits, given that he is an American."

James Boggs stares at the young German and his superior officer as if both have lost their minds. "We're talking about Sergeant Troy's younger brother who has caused nothing but trouble since entering this very camp, Dietrich", he grumbles with disbelief, while Brown starts laughing openly now. "First, you get friends with Sammy and now you stand up for his brother. When will they adopt you into their family, Dietrich?" Hans glares at him venomously. "Hopefully never, as I doubt that my nerves would survive this for even a single day. Believe me that I'm not biased through sympathy for David Troy. But the man is a pilot, a fellow officer who was gravely wounded in the line of duty. Allowing him to return to his homeland for recovery and taking him in among his own countrymen is an honorable approach though." Not even Boggs can argue against this, while Major Turner nods in agreement. "You're right, Captain Dietrich. You have been gravely injured in the line of duty yourself. And I doubt that any of us could appreciate what being allowed to return to one's homeland means, as you can." Dietrich winces at the words, as if the older American would have slapped him, but nods with a grim expression. "Indeed. I can empathize with Captain Troy in spite of his juvenile, improper and utterly ridiculous behaviour at times."

Turner looks at Atkins expectantly who still twirls his moustache with a cryptic smile. "A gravely wounded soldier with dubious perspective of ever being able to fulfill his duty again is not the most attractive to hire, but your arguments have their merit, Captain Dietrich. Can you imagine to work with Captain Troy, should he recover?" Hans cannot hide a pained grimace at that question. "I fend for the man on principle, not out of sympathy for him or because I wish to hire him, Sir." "That was not my question, Dietrich!", Atkins admonishes sternly. "Can you work with David Troy, should we take him into the U.S. army?" Dietrich wonders just how he has managed to walk into this trap he has set himself without noticing, as he bears a fatalistic expression. "I can work with him, should the need arise, Sir." Atkins smiles triumphantly. "You're more of an asset than I have given you credit for. I have spoken with Air Commodore George-Irving about the Captain, when he left him here. Apparently, he has had problems with discipline in any position, but is a talented pilot and fierce fighter, just like his brother is reputed to be."

Boggs and Dietrich share long-suffering gazes. Nobody needs to tell them about the problems the Troy brothers can cause. The Australian Captain meanwhile grins from ear to ear, enjoying the hilarious situation immensely. "Given your talent of gaining the trust and loyalty of some of the most difficult of our soldiers, handling Captain Troy will become your duty for playing the devil's advocate on his behalf", Atkins argues with a sly tone. 'Keine gute Tat bleibt ungestraft', Hans thinks bitterly that no good deed goes unpunished. "Not another Troy", Boggs mutters with quiet desperation. "You should appreciate becoming the commanding officer for such a formidable commando unit, Captain Boggs", Atkins argues sardonically. "Unless you wish to leave this honor to Captain Brown." The Australian's amused expression drops immediately. "General, I really don't want to take away your best men." The American General enjoys himself immensely at the cost of his Captains. "First, you both wish to be commanders of this unit and now you both back down. At least one of my Captains has the backbone to stand by his unit", he comments sarcastically, looking at the bruised, skinny German who still bears his fatalistic expression. "Major, I think we will lead an interview with Captain Troy ourselves. This promises to be quite entertaining." Major Turner looks similarly entertained as the three Captains, sharing their reactions of shock and horror, as he adds smoothly: "You will excuse us, gentlemen. You all have your orders. Coordinate your search and report, when you have results, but in any case today." With a salute which is answered likewise by the German, American and Australian Captain, Turner and Atkins leave the office.

"What were you thinking to suggest something like that?", Boggs turns on the younger Dietrich. "I honestly tried to help a gravely injured man", Hans defends himself. "It would never have occurred to me that I would have to suffer through the hell of receiving a second Troy to torment me, permanently." "Sammy's not that bad, but I understand your reservations regarding this clown who got dear Willy more scared than anything I've ever heard from him", Brown argues. "We will see what comes of the interview. Maybe David Troy annoys and offends General Atkins enough to not be accepted into the U.S. army", Boggs argues hopefully. "Knowing my luck, he'll be accepted into the U.S. Air Force, recover far too quickly and then annoy me until the end of my days", Hans mutters with bitter irony. "You should have thought of the consequences before standing up for him", Brown argues with a wide grin, enjoying to rouse the young German who glares at him. "How could I have predicted this? It's absurd to place a pilot with an infantry unit", Dietrich argues.

"Actually, it's not", Boggs contradicts him. "Having a reliable pilot to drop a commando unit behind enemy lines or pick them up from there, as well as provide the troopers with backup and supplies is an asset for the unit you're leading now. You're not a tank commander anymore, Dietrich." The young German Captain nods. "You're absolutely right, Captain Boggs. But with David Troy I'm more worried about the safety of my unit than without him." "He cannot be totally incompetent or he wouldn't have become an officer", Brown tries to console them both. "You haven't been there, when he almost crashed his plane into our dune just to catch our attention", Hans argues dryly. "That man has cost me as many nerves in a few weeks as his brother has in a whole year and competing against Sam Troy is an actual feat!" Boggs groans in anticipation of the headaches Dietrich combined with the two Troy brothers might cause him in the future. This has the potential of true disaster.

"Let's check Stadler's documents, so we may leave as quickly as possible", the German officer suggests, intent to change the topic, before he starts tearing out his hair. Boggs nods, glad for his younger second in command's reasonability to rein him in. "I'll inform Sammy and the rest of your lads about our orders and get them to prepare the Jeeps and equipment for staying out overnight", Brown suggests. The younger German Captain nods and replies with actual gratitude: "Thank you, Brown. I'll join our men, as soon as we're finished. Also tell Sergeant Moffit to interview the French resistance fighter about anything he might know about a secret German hideout or further traps he knows about." "You're a smart lad, Dietrich", Brown remarks with a smile. "Inform Lieutenant Griffith, Carlos, Carter and Baker as well that they should prepare to leave! We need to send any available patrol", Boggs adds. Brown nods in acknowledgement. "Sure, I'll do that, Boggsy." Then, the Australian leaves rather jovially, while Boggs sighs wearily at the nickname. "You have my sympathies for all the nicknames you have to put up with. I'm already unnerved by a single one", the older American Captain argues. "Let me show you the files, Captain Dietrich." Hans wisely keeps silent about Boggs' other nickname which would annoy him even more, as he follows the American Captain to go through the confiscated documents.

Meanwhile, Sam Troy has isolated his target, Jakob Silberblatt, from the rest of the guys and gotten him to talk in private in a corner behind the tents, while the others play with the children and Moffit watches them like their stern teacher. "Hey, Silberblatt", Troy addresses the Jewish Lieutenant who looks surprised, when the commando soldier's hand settles on his shoulder and steers him to the side. "We need to talk", the American Sergeant declares with finality. "About what?", Jakob asks nervously. "Our mutual friend", Sam Troy replies grimly. "What has happened with Hans?", Lieutenant Silberblatt asks with clear worry in his tone. "I woke him up this morning, when he was caught in one of his tormenting dreams which involved his father and that bastard beating him up for being friends with the wrong guys", Troy replies grimly. "He told you that?", Jakob asks incredulously, knowing his friend's pride and dignity. "I swore to him not to tell the others, but he told me that his father beat him unconscious and your father treated him. So I'm not spilling the beans to you." A sad expression settles on the curly-haired young man's face. "Of course not. It was horrible seeing my friend with his back all blood-drenched lying on my father's medical table. Sara didn't leave his side the whole time, while I helped my father with his treatment and bandages."

Troy growls lividly: "Jerry bastard. I knew that your friend's the only decent guy among the German officers. Even his father is an ass..." "Sergeant Troy", Jakob Silberblatt interrupts him with a tormented expression. "I know you like Hans and you won't harm him, but you will hurt him by going against his father like that." "Why's that? The guy didn't love him all his life according to your friend's own admission", Sam snarls angrily. "Not like his sister he might have said. He always resented that she was treated as the little princess with love and affection while he learned harsh discipline from early on", Jakob Silberblatt explains with a serious expression. "But Karl Friedrich Dietrich wanted to form his son into an officer he would be proud of and he has succeeded for the most part, except for Hans defecting to his enemies, because his own side has betrayed him, tortured him and condemned him for acting in a manner that is morally right, honorable and decent." Troy looks grim, but thoughtful. "He defended his father and said the only other time he was been beaten up this badly was when he defended you against the junior Nazi guys."

The Jewish Lieutenant pales visibly now. "The Hitlerjugend boys were bullies of the worst kind which was one of the main reasons for Hans to resent them. He considered attacking smaller and weaker children as dishonourable, even at the age of six. And he also considered it his obligation demanded by chivalry to stand up against such bullies, independent of whether they attacked his friends like me or others. It made him a popular kid among the not so Nazi affine children and a pariah among the Hitlerjugend kids. They usually hung around in groups and attacked anyone they considered fair game." Troy snarls in pure anger and loathing: "Worthless junior Nazi scum." Jakob Silberblatt nods with a tormented expression. "We, my sister Sara and I, were lucky to have Hans as our personal defender and support to help plan to outwit and outmaneuver them. But he had to learn this the hard way from the first time we weren't so lucky to not run into them on our way home after our first school exam. All of us wore our best clothes and we proudly carried our first grades, especially Hans who had gained the highest marks in class in maths. When they cornered us, Hans gave Maria, a classmate who had the same route home, his exam and stood in our defence, expecting me to join him. But ... I couldn't. I was frozen with fear." Ashamed of himself, the younger man averts his gaze, as he mutters with a pained tone: "I've always been the coward and he's been the hero." Troy scowls, but argues: "Wouldn't have done you much good to fight the junior Nazis, would it?" Silberblatt shakes his head, as he mutters despondently: "No, it wouldn't. But it still doesn't make me feel any better to have let my friend down so many times."

Sighing warily, he continues his original recount: "Three against one and being rather small and scrawny, Hans didn't stand a chance in spite of having been trained in some basic fighting techniques. We were lucky that some people came around, because they heard the commotion and split them up which saved him from receiving worse injuries than a bleeding nose and black eye. But the police was called and he was brought back to his parents' house by a policeman in a torn shirt with blood dripped onto it from his nose which basically ruined it completely. And it hadn't even been his in the first place but merely handed down to him from his older cousins. His father was beside himself with rage about getting into a fight which had to be split up by the police and resulted in such injuries as well as ruining his only decent set of clothes. And to add insult to injury all of it happened in order to defend a Jewish boy. I fled when he dragged Hans into the house, shouting lividly, and I only heard from my father that his uncle had to treat him afterwards. I still remember that he couldn't really walk straight without support for the next few days after that, but his father insisted that he'd have to go to school. Hans dragged himself along the wall, leaning against it for support, but he proudly held his head up high, whenever one of the Hitlerjugend guys ridiculed him which made them fear him enough to not dare attack him outright."

Silberblatt's look turns utterly tormented. "He flinched back from me, when I tried to help him, but I was insistent, until he finally relented and accepted my support. On the long run, it united us even further as friends, although Hans confessed to me that his father had forbidden him to continue befriending Jews." Troy nods in understanding. "He's still your friend and continued being that in spite of his father and his attitudes till this very day." "Hans has always been decent, loyal and honorable. Not abandoning his friends has been another principle much more deeply and importantly instilled in him than whom to befriend. You don't have to worry that he would turn his back on you, even if he has suffered greatly, Sergeant Troy. He even trusted you to tell you all that about his past." The American Sergeant growls: "I'm not worried that he'd abandon me. I know pretty well he won't. But I worry whether he'll accept the others as friends as well. He's pretty defensive and struggling against this, whenever we suggest it and now it's haunting him in his sleep." Silberblatt frowns and considers the information. "Hans has always been wary to call people his friends which stems from his father's strict rules as well as his pariah status with the junior Nazis. Some boys who were our friends joined the HJ later in their youth, others started sympathising with the Nazis' ideas or simply helped them to not become victims of their bullying themselves and betrayed or abandoned him which made him more reluctant to call anyone new or from outside our closely knit group his friend. When he likes and respects your friends, he will come around, but you should keep persistent or he'll consider your silent acceptance as agreement with his own assessment that this is not a friendship."

Troy smiles at the Jewish Lieutenant. "Thanks, Silberblatt. You're a decent guy as well and a really good friend for Dietrich." Jakob smiles wryly. "My friendship with Hans is the one thing I lost by leaving my German home that I would have considered worth staying and risking my life for. Luckily, he was a soldier and it was perfectly clear that he would have to leave the country himself sooner rather than later when the next war would start so that staying with my friend wouldn't have been an option anyway. Getting him back is one of the best things God granted me in my life." Troy smiles widely at the younger man. "I like you. You're the nicest brass I know, even before your friend, cause being nice isn't so much his thing as being decent and honorable." Jakob laughs heartily. "Thank you, Sergeant Troy." "You can call me Sam or Troy", the American offers with an openhearted smile, holding out his hand. "And you can call me Jakob, except when the real soldiers and officers are around", Silberblatt offers in return with a wide honest smile and grasps the older man's hand to shake it. "You're a lot less complicated than your friend", Troy comments with a grin. "I've never been beaten bloody and unconscious for being friends with the wrong people", Jakob defends his friend automatically at which Sam scowls. "That's true. He's a really decent guy to still do this in spite of bearing the scars of his punishment." Silberblatt's gaze turns sad. "You saw them?" "I wouldn't have recognized them, if he hadn't told me how he was treated", Troy replies honestly. "Just thought of another shrapnel splinter or two. We'll keep bugging him then. But I promised I'd help him with the others." "Then you have to or he will despise you for breaking your word", Jakob insists vehemently. "But I can support you in gradually softening him up towards you." Troy pats him on the shoulder. "You're a really decent guy, Jakob. I definitely like you."

"Sammy!", Captain Brown calls from between the tents and Troy turns to leave quickly, patting the young Lieutenant on the shoulder as a gesture of goodbye. "We need you all for Patrol duty. You'd better prepare to stay out overnight, Sammy. Your Jerry Captain will join you soon", the Australian officer explains to his former protege. "Something happened to Dietrich?" Troy wants to know. "Boggsy wanted to keep him for his analysis of some German files. But my guess is he wants to scold the poor fellow for landing your brother with your unit." "What?", Sam asks incredulously. "Davey? With our unit?" "That's what Dietrich promised him, to stand up for him returning to the U.S. army", Brown argues. "But why land him with us? Davey's a pilot!", Sam Troy exclaims incredulously. "Your friend's really good with arguing. That Yankee General would have allowed him and Boggsy the command over your idiot brother, but none of them was really happy." "Davey's a pain in the butt, if he wants to be", the older Troy brother argues.

His friend unbeknownst to him, helps to analyse the relevance of the confiscated reports. "Report on general supplies irrelevant for our purposes", Dietrich mutters, putting another report on the large pile of irrelevant information. Then, he hesitates, as he skips over the next report. "This might be interesting. A rather recent summary of troop movements", he explains to a clueless James Boggs. "You know that I cannot even read what's written here", the older American confesses. "Militärbericht means military report", Dietrich tells him patiently, translating further military terms that make the report interesting to him, while he crossreads it. "You have actual talent as an investigator, Dietrich", James Boggs tells him, "while I don't. But I honestly appreciate your efforts." Patting the young officer on the back, he adds: "You're my most skilled officer in this regard by far. I really value your abilities." Hans raises his eyebrows in quiet astonishment, as he mutters: "I merely analyse what is written here." Boggs studies him quietly. "Your skill with languages is unparalleled among my officers. What do you think makes this interesting?" "It's focused on the offensive troop movement which might be relevant for your troops", Hans points out. "While this report speaks of defensive measures taken against the Allied forces."

Boggs looks over his shoulder which works easier, since Dietrich has sat down to study the documents. The skinny German officer shows him several passages. "In addition to the location of two minefields this mentions that they have supplied several emergency depots for the case of coming under siege or having to give up one of the fortresses and supplying the fleeing troops. Roll out the map, please!" Boggs immediately complies with the request and watches the other Captain as he marks several spots with crosses on the map. "So your idea worked out after all", the older American officer commends his young second in command. "I will take this map with me to instruct our Patrols", Dietrich suggests to which Boggs nods. "Do that! Each of the Lieutenants has at least two Patrol Jeeps under his command, as you do as well, of which one should possess a radio unit. Inform us about any finds! One unit should patrol the main road itself to secure the convoy against minefields and other traps." The German Captain salutes, as he confirms: "I'll relay your orders to the men." Boggs nods and salutes back. "Thank you and good luck with your search, Captain Dietrich. I hope to hear a positive report soon."

Dietrich nods and picks up the map, before freezing, as Boggs adds: "We will discuss the Troy debacle when you're back." Sighing wearily and wincing as his cracked ribs protest, Hans mutters with bitter irony: "Leaving no good deed unpunished appears to be my fate." James Boggs scowls at the younger man, but his bruises as well as his thin stature on which his own uniform is too baggy, remind the American rather clearly what the German Captain has gone through to end up in the position he finds himself now. "We'll make it through the Troy disaster together. I rely on your backup, Dietrich", the older Captain adds in a more friendly tone that makes his younger colleague raise his head with a baffled expression. "I suppose we're d'accord when it comes to the Troy brothers and their ability to cost our nerves", Hans remarks dryly. "But you have the advantage of Sam Troy considering you his friend", Boggs points out at which the German Captain tenses visibly.

"I have argued with him that this is an inappropriate behaviour", Hans starts his justification which Boggs stops by raising his right hand. "I don't need your explanation, as I have observed your struggle myself. You've been through hell in the last weeks and lost almost everything, Dietrich. I surely won't condemn you for being human." The young German Captain meets his gaze, as he mutters with a tinge of disbelief in his tone: "Thank you. I would never have expected more empathy from my former enemies than I have ever known from my allies." "You're not what I expected when General Atkins declared that he would put a defected German officer under my command, Sergeant Troy's archenemy no less, who has cost me men and material and crossed the blades with my units more often than I could count. With the exception of Lieutenant Baker who will always hate and distrust you out of principle, almost every man in my unit likes and respects you. Doctor Andrews was singing your praise only this morning after you left. You have more friends in this camp than you realise." Dietrich has tensed and stares at the American Captain with incredulity clearly written on his face, while Boggs studies his young colleague for a few seconds, before sending him off. "Leave for now, Captain Dietrich. We can continue this discussion, once you're back, ideally when we have some time off as well. I owe you a drink for some of the things you've done during the last weeks." "Captain Boggs", Dietrich replies cautiously, while giving a sharp salute. Then he turns on his heels and leaves as quickly as possible without appearing undignified.

The American and Australian LRDP troopers eagerly await him in their Jeeps. The O'Donnell brothers have joined the game with Ari and Kiri who run to their beloved brother to hug him. "*We will have to leave now and it is very likely that we will not come back today, but be might even stay away for a few days*", he tells them gently. Both children look utterly sad. "Mark Hitchcock and your other brother Jakob will look after you", he promises Ari and his friend joining him together with Sam Troy confirms this immediately: "Of course. We will have a nice day, won't we?" Ari smiles a bit unsure, as he looks up at his main caregiver: "But you will come back and not be hurt, Hans? You're always hurt when you stay away." Dietrich flinches and bears a tormented expression, while Sam Troy puts on a determined look and grips the young officer's shoulder. "We'll protect him. I promise you that, Ari." Although he is sometimes scared of the loud Sergeant, Ari appears to be relieved by the promise and smiles at Troy honestly. "Thank you, Troy." Beaming back at the boy, Sam ruffles through his hair gently. "You're welcome, kid. I like your brother as much as you. No harm will come to him." "Don't worry, Ari. I promise you that I will be careful", Dietrich adds, kneeling to look the child in the eyes who pulls him into a tight embrace, as he whispers: "Please come back. I will miss you so much." "Please", Kiri adds her new favourite word for getting what she wants from people, hugging the young German as well.

Troy and Silberblatt exchange a smile and nod, before the American Sergeant puts his hand on the young Captain's shoulder who rises to his feet, once he has extracted himself from the children's grip around his neck. After allowing them to say goodbye, Jakob leads the boy and girl to the office building, while Hans turns toward his soldiers and declares in a matter-of-factual tone: "Call all LRDP units together! I have relevant information on our targets, minefields and orders." The O'Donnell brothers who have observed the interaction between the German Captain and his children with nostalgic smiles take off running to inform the Australians, while Corporal Turner intends to do the same for the American units.

Captain Brown looks curious, when he joins them together with Sergeant Williamson, as Dietrich rolls out the map on the bonnet of Tully's Jeep. "What did you learn from the reports, Sherlock? Something useful I suppose." The German officer scowls at him, as he growls: "Would you mind terribly to spare me the nicknames, Brown?" The Australian Captain grins, as he counters: "Come on, Dietrich. It's good fun and an honest compliment to use this nickname for you." Sighing wearily, as he decides that the topic is not worth wasting his time and energy much longer, Hans greets the arriving American Lieutenants instead. Carlos and Carter bear friendly smiles, while Griffith eyes the German Captain with a stern respectful expression. Only Lieutenant Baker eyes him with distrust which in return makes Troy glare at him with an angry look. His patience with the arrogant brass is rather small in the first place, but with an officer who holds clear prejudices against his friend it is nonexistent. Jack Moffit realizes this as does Hans Dietrich who exchanges a long gaze with the British Sergeant, communicating nonverbally to keep an eye on Troy.

"Gentlemen", the German Captain addresses all of them, once he is assured that every man in command of a patrol unit is present. "While going through the documents of the German base commander, Captain Boggs and I have come across some useful information." Everyone is paying close attention now. Pointing at the map area to the South and Northeast of the road ahead of them, Hans Dietrich explains: "We know about two minefields deployed by the Germans, here and here. We don't know whether further security measures have been chosen alongside the road which is why Captain Boggs and I want one of your units to follow the main road and check it for anything endangering the convoy. This will be your obligation, Lieutenant Carter." Carter salutes and confirms: "We'll do our best, Captain." Dietrich nods in acceptance and continues: "In addition we have learned about several supply depots hidden by the Germans in case they would have to give up the forts and need to supply their fleeing troops or fight to regain control. Of these we only know the approximate locations." The young officer points at four areas on the map within one or two days' driving range.

"I would suggest that you check these two locations in the South, Captain Brown and Sergeant Williamson." Both Australians agree eagerly. "Then, there is a depot close to the minefields. Lieutenant Baker, you have the most experience with explosives and disarming minefields, according to your file. Take Corporal Aaron Humphreys along to have our expert in the field of chemistry available for any counteractions and check out this depot." Baker eyes the German warily, but does not protest against the reasonable orders. "The last remaining area contains several caves according to the report and we don't know which one exactly is used as a supply depot or whether they have also installed a small support base. Therefore, I require your units, Lieutenant Carlos and Griffith, in addition to the Rat Patrol for checking these locations." Griffith nods with a grim expression, while Carlos salutes. "We'll get them, Captain!", Troy insists with a grim look. "For sure", Griffith confirms. Dietrich nods and orders sternly: "That's the spirit, gentlemen. I expect you all to do your best, as does Captain Boggs. All units report to the main convoy once you find something, but at the latest when you set up a camp for the night. We are to find and destroy those German supply lines supporting the besieged oasis. Try to salvage rather than destroy the supplies though, as our convoy has dire need of them."

With a sharp, but wincing salute the young officer dismisses the men who quickly turn to their respective Jeeps with the exception of Captain Brown. "You're really quite good, Dietrich. I might still consider taking you in in spite of adopting the younger Troy brother", the Australian officer comments. "Best of luck to you. See you soon." Without allowing the German Captain the chance to reply, Sam Troy intercedes incredulously: "You really did that?" Dietrich sighs warily. "General Atkins practically forced your brother upon me, when I pleaded for his case to be allowed to join the army of his homeland. Captain Boggs is already angry enough with me and I felt like tearing my hair out, so adding further complaints won't help in the least, Sergeant." Moffit is the one who actually continues arguing much to both Troy's and Dietrich's surprise. "General Atkins seriously considers taking David Troy in and making him a member of our unit?", he inquires incredulously. "Indeed, Moffit. If you consider returning to the British military under these changed circumstances, you have my full understanding, Sergeant. I'm sure Major Bracken will appreciate you much more than Captain Troy", the German officer replies dryly.

"It wouldn't occur to me to leave your unit, as I have told you, Captain. I'm merely wondering if the General has any idea what kind of explosive combination he is creating", Jack Moffit argues at which the young Captain sighs warily: "I warned him rather vehemently, but he was more amused than anything else." "Looks like I should have left that donkey crap with him after all", Sam Troy grumbles. "Sergeant, don't wreck what's left of my nerves and sanity with such actions", Hans comments sarcastically, unable to hide his exasperation though. "Having to suffer your brother's support for our unit is bad enough without your active addition to his insanity. Your family is becoming the bane of my existence." Troy grins. "Look at the bright side, Captain. He and Hitch can hang out and flirt with all the girls that will finally fall for you." "Why don't you shut up, Troy?", Hans groans, pinching his nose.

When a hand settles on his good shoulder, the young German officer is surprised to see Jack Moffit who comments with a wry smile: "Well, it looks like I really can't leave your unit, as you need my support more than ever against the Yankees' onslaught of insanity, old chap." "As if you'd be immune, Doctor. Haven't you confessed to being infected by their insanity as well", Dietrich counters dryly. "No more than you, given that you have ended Troy's probation", the British scholar argues with a sly smile. "So you might as well accept my offer, Captain." The young German suppresses the urge to roll his eyes, intent to preserve his last shreds of dignity. "Do I have anything left to lose?", he inquires with irony, changing his strategy from outright resistance to unspoken acceptance. "At least you're not a Yankee." While Moffit looks surprised by the surrender, Troy grins widely, as he comments: "Looks like you two know-it-alls finally got back to your senses. You fit together brilliantly anyways, educated snobs who like tea and speak something like every language around." "You'd be invited as well to the league of extraordinary gentlemen, appreciating tea, fine arts and a proper education, Troy, if only you'd take the offer and change your behaviour. But I'm more than happy to welcome you, Captain", Jack offers with an inviting smile, holding out his hand. After a moment of hesitation, the lean young officer grasps his hand, wincing slightly. "As long as you refrain from using my first name, Moffit, we can be friends in this respect."

Tully observes the interaction with well hidden curiosity. If the German Captain has come around to accept Doc in addition to Sarge, it will only be a matter of time until he will give in to Hitch and him as well. Cap is a reasonable man who has been through hell and back again, so it is only fair to allow him some time to adapt to things. For a Jerry officer he has always been pretty flexible and open minded to change his ways that quickly. Riku Gottschlich is a lot less comfortable with the behaviour, torn between expecting an appropriate distance to his commanding officer and feeling somewhat excluded because he has not a longstanding and friendly relationship with the German Captain, while Eric Turner is incredulous. Nothing his uncle has ever told him fits the behaviour of the German officer. Nonetheless, Dietrich is undoubtedly successful as a commander, as his men who have formerly been his enemies not only respect but actually like him and his former troops still treat him with reverence.

When Moffit, Troy and Dietrich join the three, they immediately scramble to their respective Jeeps. In spite of the American Sergeant glaring at Corporal Turner, Hans Dietrich decides to reapply the positions from this morning to ride with Pettigrew and Moffit. The Kentucky driver has placed the German Captain's uniform jacket on the front seat along with the helmet the young officer has worn in the morning. Seeing Dietrich's baffled expression, he mutters a bit sheepishly: "I thought you'd need both, Cap." Shaking his head to get his father's voice scolding him for his inappropriate choice of friends out of his mind, the young German officer replies matter-of-factually: "Thank you, Pettigrew. You're actually surprising me with being that considerate." The young Private shrugs and shifts his matchstick. "Doesn't hurt to be nice. You're fair to us too." Raising his eyebrows in actual surprise, Hans merely nods, not trusting himself with an answer. He has been far too lenient and friendly with the Rats anyways, especially today. The only good thing about never meeting his father again is that it will spare him the tongue lashing he would surely receive for all this. Jack Moffit helps their injured CO patiently into his jacket, before climbing onto the back of the vehicle. A minute later, Tully drives off at Dietrich's command and arm signal with Gottschlich following close behind as well as Lieutenant Carlos' and Griffith's units. The German Captain salutes to Brown and Williamson, as he passes them by, before leaving out of the gate through which Carter's and Baker's units have already left before them.

Although they stop several times during the next hours of driving through the desert to the Northnortheast, they do not come within range of anything worth investigating, until Lieutenant Griffith demands a lunch break. Tully applies his practiced skill of using the heat of the Jeeps' motors for boiling the canned food without requiring to create a campfire, instructing even some of the members of Carlos' and Griffith's units in the technique who observe him curiously. The two Lieutenants meanwhile join the German Captain for a strategic meeting. "How long till we reach those caves, Captain?", the rough Lieutenant Griffith wants to know with a growl. Dietrich unfolds the map and points out their current position and route. "We mainly kept to the Northnortheast until now. After lunch we should turn toward the East though. In this manner we will avoid the main road and the minefield mentioned in Hauptmann Stadler's report." Carlos studies the map intently, while he inquires curiously: "I've never been this far East before, Captain. Do you know the area?"

The German officer grimaces, before nodding. "I've led many convoys through the whole area. But with the shifting dunes, frequently installed minefields, recently relocated supply deploys and other small military posts which change hands between the sides more frequently than some soldiers change their clothes, it's hard to tell you any exact details. But I've fought many battles in these sands, Lieutenant." Wearily, he lets his gaze wander over the dunes, as he silently thinks of all the men fallen under his command out here and pays them his respect in the privacy of his own mind. Realization who exactly they are currently talking to hits both Carlos and Griffith. While the older American officer scowls grimly at the former Panzer Hauptmann, the Hispanic Lieutenant bears a sympathetic expression. Even though Captain Dietrich might have been one of their most dangerous enemy commanders until a little more than a month ago, he is a valuable ally for them now. And if Carlos is assured of one thing by now, it is that the German officer cares about the lives and fates of his men, his former as well as his current ones. This feat of openly shown human decency and compassion has earned him sympathies among his former enemies and endeared him to his former allies in spite of his defection.

Sam Troy joins them, looking for his Captain and notices the younger man's haunted expression immediately. Glaring at the two Lieutenants, as if they would actively threaten his friend, he approaches the lean officer who turns his gaze on him after Troy's hand has settled on his shoulder. While Dietrich still raises his eyebrows in a questioning manner, Sam reports: "Tully's finished with lunch and I came to fetch you." "Thank you, Sergeant. Lieutenant Griffith and Carlos, I suppose we're finished here. We will leave right after lunch to overcome as much distance as possible today", Hans addresses them calmly, before saluting to the two officers to dismiss them. Both return the gesture before joining their units again. "What's haunting you?", Troy wants to know, while he accompanies the German Captain to their Jeeps where the others are camping already. "The ghosts of the past, Troy. Too many of my men have died in these sands", the younger man replies with honesty. Troy bears a sympathetic expression, as he squeezes his shoulder and mutters with conviction: "We're standing with you." Hans nods curtly. "Thank you, Troy." Accusing the American of being responsible for several of the deaths Dietrich is mourning would help none of them.

Lunch passes rather quietly after that, as neither is particularly inclined to start a conversation. The German Captain instructs Tully Pettigrew curtly on their route and change of direction toward the East. The quiet Private from Kentucky nods diligently, shifting his matchstick in his mouth, before muttering: "Sure, Cap. I'll keep that direction and you keep your eyes open for troubles." After Dietrich's arm signal they leave, as soon as everyone has returned to their vehicle.

Two hours later, the young German Captain scales another dune. He has lost count of how many such ascents and descents he has behind him today, but his body is starting to notice the strain, as his shoulder throbs in constant residual pain and his cracked ribs also emit a similar feeling. As Hans scans the horizon and closer environment with his binoculars, his breath catches in his throat. Something glimmering has caught his eye, but he cannot make out where exactly its source is lying. Underneath him the shimmering heat waves dance over the ochre sands in the valley between the dunes, forming a mirage, a fata morgana as the natives call it, which is distorting the horizon into a deceptive image of an oasis Dietrich knows is nowhere close to their current location. Shifting his position which should help him to disperse the deceptive optical phenomenon by changing the angle in which he is looking at it, Hans notices the different, more intense glimmer again.

"Troy, Griffith, Carlos, come up here! I think I found something!", he bellows his command for his men to hear, while cautiously descending a bit further on the other side of the dune to gain a better view. "An oasis? Here", Griffith shouts from above to which Dietrich replies: "It's just a fata morgana, tricking your eyes. The oasis is nowhere near here. But I could see some metallic glimmer underneath..." Then, the German Captain suddenly stops his shout mid sentence, as a cold shudder runs down his spine. The valley below not only contains no refreshing oasis, but also is a graveyard of metallic monstrosities. Twisted hulks of tanks of both British and German origin lie scattered like the bones of a slain and rotten dragon. Some have black scars of scorch marks marring their once-proud armored hulls, burnt out along with their former operators. Others stand like the broken toys of an angry boy who has trampled on his tin army in a fit of rage. Their turrets are tilted in a manner that clearly visualises that these guns will remain forever silent. Silence lies over the eerie scene like a heavy cloak and is broken only by the rasping of the wind through the scorched metal carcasses, as not even animal scavengers still have any interest left in this worn out battlefield from a forgotten battle from months ago. A few burnt out husks of fallen airplanes can be recognized only by their abnormal position, making them stand out in between the land vehicles.

"Mein Gott", Dietrich mutters quietly and makes the sign of a cross, briefly thanking whichever deity may listen to his silent prayer that he has not been involved in this battle as a tank commander or he would clearly not have stood a chance of survival. All that remains is a desolate testament to the futility of war. What have those men fought about? A few meters of barren sands which have changed sides so many times since this battle has been fought. Sam Troy takes his position beside his friend, feeling a cold dread seep into his bones. The battle here must have been brutal, a clash of titans that has left no victors, no survivors. The silence of the battlefield screams of violence. He can almost see the men who have crewed these machines, until their final screams have been swallowed by the silent vastness of the desert. Lieutenant Carlos shudders similarly to Captain Dietrich, as his breath catches in his throat and he tries to suppress a sob. Griffith curses loudly, but his own pain at the sight is clear to all of them.

"What do we do, Captain?", Troy finally manages to choke out. "This battle happened months ago. There are no survivors here, no chance of finding anything worth looting", the German officer analyses with a hoarse voice but cool logic. "But we owe it to the soldiers of any side who died here, to bury their remains and take their tags, if this has not happened already." Carlos stares at their young commander rather incredulously, as he inquires: "You really want to go down there, Captain?" "If you would have died in this battle, Lieutenant, would you want the shifting sands to wear down these metal carcasses over the course of years and your bones along with them or would you wish for somebody to bury you and inform your family and loved ones of your fate?", Hans supplies his argument through a question which has a very clear answer for him as well as any soldier out here. Carlos cannot hide a sob, when he replies: "I'm sorry, Captain. You're right." Troy pats his friend's shoulder, as he mutters quietly into his ear: "You're still the most decent and honorable of all our brass." Too weary to wish to start a discussion with the impossible Sergeant, Dietrich merely turns to sliding down the dune ridge in order to reach one of the outermost tanks and climbs the former German Panzer with the practice of somebody who has done this hundreds of times.

The flap on top of the armored vehicle is open and enough time has passed since the fire to carry away the worst of the smell of burnt flesh and materials on the outside. But once he looks inside the stench of burnt flesh wafts to the German's nose who flinches back. He has seen what he has come to see. "The bodies of the dead are still inside and so are their dog tags most likely. We will stop to bury them and then continue on our way!", he shouts to his men. "Call the Jeeps down here! We need every man to participate." Griffith, Carlos and Troy comply immediately, while the former Panzer Hauptmann climbs down and gets some distance between himself and the tanks, before he tries to get the smell out of his nose and his head, but binding his bandana over his mouth and nose. In spite of smelling of his own sweat and the gasoline he has drenched it with two weeks ago, this aroma is still preferable to the stench of burnt human flesh.

The arrival of the American soldiers happens a lot more quietly than is usual for them. Riku Gottschlich has turned deathly pale at the sight before him and Corporal Turner even lets out a sob. Jack Moffit who is fighting hard to keep his mask of stoicism stares at the scene, momentarily paralyzed and now that he knows the man well enough, Hans can make out the flicker of pain in his blue eyes. Even some of the veterans of the LRDP, hardened by skirmishes and battles as they are, cannot hide the tremor in their hands, while seeing the haunting scene in front of them. For the first time, some of them can start to fathom Dietrich's notion that in the eye of death the lines between Allied and Axis soldiers become blurred until they are blown away by the unforgiving desert winds which now bury their bodies without caring for sides either. Underneath the uniforms they are all merely human. Of this they are starkly reminded, when they retrieve British and German dog tags from the heavily burnt bodies, before letting the soldiers share a joint grave in the ever shifting Libyan sands.

The German Captain has little time for helping to retrieve anything from the fallen comrades and foes, as he focuses his attention and concern on helping the youngest among their units who struggle obviously with this gruesome scene and its implications. Riku Gottschlich is close to tears, when Hans calls him to the side to speak with him quietly. "Corporal Gottschlich, a word if you please." "Captain", Gotty chokes out. "Breathe, Corporal, but carefully!", the young officer speaks in a calm, yet gently reassuring tone he also uses with Ari, when the boy is close to panicking. "This might be our future, but it is not our present now. Showing these men our respect is also a manner of reminding us of the fate that might await us in one of the battles to come without losing courage and hope altogether. Let it teach you instead to appreciate being alive and how precious every life is to not snuff it out unnecessarily!" The young American has to resist the urge to pull the only human being showing him compassion into a tight embrace, but his well-indoctrinated respect of ranks and hierarchies keeps him from overstepping such a bound. Noticing Gottschlich's desperate and conflicted expression, Hans Dietrich places his arm on the younger man's shoulder and meets his eyes with a steady gaze. "Believe me that I can understand that this affects you, Corporal! I fought in battles such as this one myself and lost too many of my men", he assures the American who winces and averts his tormented gaze, choking out: "Thank you, Captain!"

Similarly to Gottschlich, Hans calls Corporal Turner to the side after he finds the young American throwing up his lunch. Wordlessly handing him a canteen to rinse his mouth, the experienced officer allows the young American several moments to regain his bearings, before addressing him. "I understand that this affects you heavily, Corporal. Have you ever fought in a battle, such as this one?", Dietrich asks him in his calm tone. The young American shakes his head, as he admits: "I ... My uncle kept me mainly as an aide. I've seen battles from far away, but never have I seen anything like this." Shuddering violently, as several sobs wrack his body, Eric Turner chokes out: "I thought that following the path my uncle wanted for me, to become an officer, would be glorious, helping people, like you do. This is ... horrible." The German Captain sighs wearily. "It's no less horrible for me, Corporal, and I have actively fought in such battles and lost my men to the flames and bullets of our enemies. It's a reminder for all of us what we fight for. To end such needless bloodshed by ending this war, to keep too many others from following on this path of destruction. Because I value the lives of my men, I respect my enemies as well, as we can see here that friend and foe lie united in their graves, something which might have been prohibited through negotiating rather than fighting this out."

Sighing wearily, Hans adds: "I hope that you can understand why I have more motivation than most to fight in this war in spite of having been in the middle of such battles as the one having taken place here, Turner, since I wish to see my homelands free from those abusing their power to mislead and terrorize their own people as much as the rest of Europe." The American Corporal coughs heavily, when he draws in too deep a breath and the taste of burnt flesh lands in the back of his throat again. With a worried gaze, the German Captain pats him on the back, as the Corporal starts retching again and instinctively grabs the hand held out to him to provide him with some comfort. "Thank you, Captain", Eric Turner whispers sheepishly, when he releases the young officer's hand. "I'll get along." "Return to the Jeeps and let the others finish this here! You're no help in your current state, Corporal", Dietrich orders with strictness, but not without compassion. Not daring to look at the lean Captain, the American Corporal nods and makes his slow way back to the Jeeps.

Everyone looks subdued by the time they have finished their gruesome duty. When their units finally move onward from the lost battlefield, the image of the tank graveyard remains etched in the minds of all the men of the LRDP. Observing his men with some concern, their German commander hopes that this experience will serve as a somber warning and a stark reminder of the cost of their mission and keep even the hotheads like Griffith and Troy from acting too rashly the next time. After all, hardly anyone here knows better than Hans Dietrich what price might have to be paid for even a single victory in the unforgiving sands of North Africa. The former Wehrmacht Hauptmann and Panzer Kommandant has paid this price often enough with his own sweat and blood as well as the lives of many of his men to never forget this lesson in humility and humanity. None of the soldiers feels like talking and during the hours after their finding and almost everybody is relieved that during the desert rides talking would be impossible anyways, as each follows his own train of thoughts.

Only at the brink of dawn does Hans Dietrich call their Jeeps to a halt and build a small camp, once he has checked the surroundings from a dune closeby. While his soldiers work on building their tents and gathering their rations for supper, the German Captain returns to their Jeep to activate the radio unit and provide a report to James Boggs. The older American officer notices that something is off from the solemn tone of his younger second in command. After Dietrich has reported their gruesome find of the afternoon he understands better what might haunt the younger man. Assuring him that all is well, although he has not yet received reports from all the patrol units, and that they have made good progress with the main convoy thanks to Lieutenant Carter and his scouts, Boggs wishes his fellow Captain a good night, before cutting the connection. "You look like you desperately need a friend, Captain", Jack comments wryly, as he approaches the haunted looking younger man. "I'm fine, Doctor", Hans deflects immediately. "You will have to improve your ability to tell lies, if you want to be convincing in the spying business", Moffit admonishes with friendly strictness.

"Captain Dietrich, Doctor Moffit", Lieutenant Carlos shouts the names of the young officer and his Sergeant with some desperation, before the German even gets the chance to reply. "My driver reports eerie haunting sounds in his tent and refuses to stay there. He's sure the ghosts of the men from the tank graveyard haunt him now." The German Captain and his British Sergeant exchange bemused looks, before Dietrich puts on a wry smile: "Should we take up the case, Doctor Watson?" Smiling wryly at their internal joke, Moffit replies dryly: "This promises to become truly interesting and worthy of your investigative talent, my dear Holmes." With an amused expression, the German Captain turns back to the Hispanic officer. "Lead us to the tent, Lieutenant Carlos!" The man looks relieved, as he replies: "Thank you, Captain."

When Carlos, Dietrich and Moffit reach the tent, several soldiers have assembled already. A strange noise resounds in a hollow tone from within and several of the Yankees wince, while one even makes the sign of the cross. The two Europeans bear solemn expressions, as they approach the men. "Please report what is going on, Private Farley!", the German Captain orders. The young soldier salutes, while his eyes skip nervously to the tent every few seconds. "The ghosts of the men from the tank graveyard. They have come to haunt me, Sir. Listen!", the Yankee reports and indeed the strange whining noise like the groan of a suffering man resounds again. "When has this started?", Hans continues his inquiry, unwilling to believe in ghosts and searching for an alternative, more rational explanation. "Right after I moved inside and dropped my backpack. It's clinging to me through the sands. God protect me! I'm cursed", the young soldier laments desperately. "Pull yourself together, Private!", the German officer admonishes sternly. "Doctor Moffit and I will investigate the interior." More than one of the Americans looks relieved at this announcement.

Jack Moffit places his hand on the younger Captain's shoulder, as he whispers into his ear, once they have entered the tent: "This whole notion of curses and ghosts is absurd." "Which is what we have to prove to them to convince them. So we'd better start searching for the origin of the strange noise", Dietrich replies dryly. The British scholar starts looking around, while he adds: "I can't tell you how relieved I am to finally have a reasonable individual at my side with the curiosity to wish to investigate and the education to do so in a scientific way, old chap." "I can empathize with your suffering, Doctor", the German Captain comments dryly, while walking slowly into the centre of the tent and cocking his head, as he tries to pick up the noise and its direction.

When the eerie groan resounds again half a minute later, both men turn in the direction and cautiously approach the soldier's backpack. Dietrich crouches next to it and scans the exterior, while Moffit stares intently at the tracks in the sand. "I think I have identified our culprit", Hans states with his amusement clearly audible in his tone, as he removes a water bottle from the backpack which makes the whining noise again while dangling from his fingers. Jack chuckles briefly at the absurdity of the situation. "A truly fearsome spirit I have to admit", he gets out with a laugh. "Try to remain serious, when we present this! Although I have to admit that this is absolutely hilarious", the German Captain counters with amusement audible in his tone as well. "We'll think fondly of this, while sharing our champagne", Jack promises with a grin. "Of this and Troy's face, when you talked to that teapot and convinced me of the philosophical value of the approach", Hans replies with a smile and a wink.

"You've proven your worthiness to the Tea League through this, my dear friend", Moffit assures him. However, Dietrich tenses slightly at the last words and his face adopts a more serious expression. Noticing the reaction, the Brit admits hesitantly: "I apologise for pushing you almost as much as Troy has. But you seemed rather reluctant to acknowledge my offer, unless I would repeat it. You're a decent fellow and I truly value your company, Captain." The younger officer swallows hard, before nodding in acceptance. "It's not like I wouldn't appreciate your friendship, Moffit. I'm merely ... a burnt child shying the fire", he admits hesitantly. "Once bitten, twice shy", Jack replies with sympathy in his tone. "I know what you're talking about. I lost friends as well, because they deeply disappointed me. But I still think we should call a spade a spade, Captain." Nodding in affirmation, Hans points at the tent flap. "Speaking of which, should we clear up the investigation and reveal the case, Doctor?" Smiling, Jack replies: "After you, my dear Holmes."

Immediately upon them leaving the tent, every soldier in camp forms a ring around the duo of investigators, as the word about the strange haunted tent has spread like a wildfire in the small troop. Troy and Griffith push through the crowd to get to the centre, where Carlos is already waiting there for the German Captain and his British Sergeant. "I reveal to you, gentlemen", Dietrich starts out with a dramatic intonation, "the ghost of the tank graveyard." When he holds up the half-screwed bottle, it produces its eerie noise as if on cue. Private Farley's head turns bright red, as he blushes under the gazes of his fellow soldiers. "I recommend that you screw your bottle properly in the future", Dietrich comments dryly, rubbing in the embarrassing scene in, before adding dryly: "And please refrain from inventing supernatural explanations for perfectly normal occurrences!" All of the soldiers around nod eagerly, more than one sharing Farley's embarrassment of having been carried away by superstition.

Turning to Lieutenant Carlos, Dietrich adds: "Thank you for bringing this to my attention so quickly, before this has escalated unnecessarily, Lieutenant." Carlos salutes and replies with a tone holding clear admiration: "Thank you for investigating so quickly! They really don't call you Captain Sherlock for nothing." The German officer's amused expression falls at the nickname, realising that he has just cemented this nickname himself as part of his reputation in the U. S. army. Moffit squeezes his shoulder in gentle reassurance, while Troy joins them and pats his younger friend's back with a grin. "Brilliant, Captain Sherlock. I really like the sound of this. We should add 'Sergeant Watson' though." "It's still Doctor Watson for you uneducated barbarians", Moffit protests, looking slightly miffed. "Das ist wie Perlen vor die Säue werfen, Moffit", Dietrich mutters to him quietly at which Jack starts to grin, while Troy glares at him. "I remember that phrase. You just insulted us, didn't you?" "Only if you take the phrase literally, as usual, Troy. Then you may consider yourself a pig as well as an ox." "Jerry smartass!", Sam growls, but smiles all the same. That the German Captain gets along with Jack that well in spite of his reservations is a promising prospect for Tully and Hitch. Dietrich is a fair and good hearted guy who has really gone out of his way by agreeing to their offers of friendship. Still the young officer is not in the least coldblooded enough to bear being completely isolated among his enemies without family or friends, nevermind how much of a challenge he has to overcome.

Hey, Cap, Sarge, Doc. Dinner's served!", Tully calls out, ladling portions of the stew he has warmed over a campfire into their metal plates. "I'll take care of our tea", Moffit offers graciously without waiting for a response, while Troy grabs their Captain at the shoulder. "And you don't even think about scurrying off, but sit down and eat your dinner!", he scolds the younger man who grimaces. "Troy, you're a lot worse than my mother. Couldn't you just leave me in peace and ignore me?", Hans protests sarcastically, unnerved by the American Sergeant's overly protective behaviour. "No chance, Captain", Troy counters stubbornly, as he brings two plates from the campfire, while the German officer retrieves their cutlery and dry biscuits to go along with the stew. Both sit down in such a manner that they can lean against the tire of Troy's Jeep. Riku Gottschlich joins them a minute later, bringing tin cups and water along, before a hesitant Corporal Turner follows after checking with Dietrich who nods encouragingly. Tully helps Moffit with carrying his dinner, while the Brit takes a teapot and two bronze cups along, one of which he hands to Hans Dietrich.

Once they are finished with their dinner which passes in relaxing peace and quiet, Dietrich walks over to the other units, followed by Troy and Moffit to arrange shifts for the nightwatch. "I would prefer to keep two men on the watch in four shifts which will not put too much strain on every single man", the cautious German Captain argues. "Also the drivers should not be used for guard duty, as they need to concentrate the most. I propose that you two Sergeants along with Corporal Turner take over this duty." Similarly, Carlos appoints two of his men, while Griffiths volunteers himself along with two of his soldiers. "Excellent. Sergeant Moffit, you take the first watch along with Private Umbridge. Troy, you're on second watch with Private Raynes. Lieutenant Griffith, you take the third watch along with Corporal Turner and Sergeant Jones with Private Farley will take the last watch! In this manner we pair men from different units and always an experienced with a less experienced soldier", the tall German Captain orders sternly. "Sounds good to me", Griffith confirms and Carlos nods as well.

Looking a bit sheepish, the Hispanic Lieutenant, addresses their commanding officer: "Sir, I have a request for you which is not intended to be impertinent." Dietrich raises his eyebrows in a questioning manner. "Morale has suffered quite badly among the men today. First thing in the morning, two of their comrades are found dead. Then, we leave the camp and come upon this tank graveyard with all the dead on both sides. Though burying their remains helped somewhat to come to terms, it affected more than just Private Farley. And then there was the ghost incident which unsettled several of the men as well." The German Captain sighs wearily, wincing slightly. "I'm aware of all this and none of it is impertinent, Lieutenant. What would you like me to do?" Carlos looks actually a bit nervous now, as he argues: "We're in the middle of nowhere with no option for distraction or entertainment, except for some which we could provide ourselves." Hans nods. "You have my permission to do something as long as it is silent and doesn't draw the attention of the enemy."

The American Lieutenant bites his lip, as he replies: "Well. I thought you'd say that, so I asked the men for suggestions in advance. Most wanted to see some of your card tricks you're famous for among the Aussies." Finally, the German officer understands why Carlos has been so nervous and beaten around the bush. Although his first impulse is to dismiss the impertinent request, his more reasonable side argues already that this is a simple way of boosting morale and keeping the notoriously uncontrollable Yankees under his constant supervision. With a serious expression, the young Captain comments: "You're right that this is unusual to ask of your commanding officer, but we are in a dire and unusual situation. Thus, I will humor your men for a few rounds, hoping that this will keep them from doing something inadvisable." Lieutenant Carlos smiles openly at the German, as do Troy and Moffit, while Griffith looks dumbstruck. "You'd actually do such undignified nonsense, Captain?", he inquires incredulously. "It's my duty to assure that the men under my command stay motivated and in this manner I can keep them from more harmful manners of getting distracted", Dietrich argues sternly. "That's what we like you for, Captain", Troy comments jovially, patting the younger man on the shoulder. "I'll fetch Tully with the cards." "I'll call the men, if you don't mind, Captain", Carlos offers to which Dietrich nods. Then, he takes off similarly to Sam Troy.

A little while later they are all assembled in the light of a small campfire which also provides some warmth and heat Moffit's teapot. Many of the soldiers from Carlos' and Griffith's unit whisper excitedly, as they point at the German Captain who has positioned himself to have the light in his back. In this manner, the shades will partially hide his sleight of hand tricks as well as adding an aura of mystery to the 'mind reading' performance. Riku Gottschlich beams at him, when Hans chooses him along with Pettigrew for the demonstration of the game. Changing his voice and intonation to add to the performance of the 'magic show', Dietrich lets the Kentucky Private draw the topmost card to reveal the Japanese descended Corporal's original card. Many 'Oh's, 'Ah's and 'Wow's are muttered in the crowd of soldiers, as everyone of them is gripped with fascination, given that they know the tall Captain to be an officer without any inclination for magical abilities.

While the young German plays a second round with Troy and Moffit, Tully withdraws to the back of the crowd and opens a betting corner for which card will get drawn next and whether Dietrich will guess the card correctly. Knowing that the Captain has a trick behind it to manipulate the outcome, even though he has not yet fully figured it out how it works, Tully considers the last a totally safe bet and eagerly accepts betting with cigarettes, chewing gums and other small but valuable items from their rations. While the German Captain is playing his mind reading trick with the soldiers from Carlos' and Griffith's unit, their comrades place their bets with the Kentucky driver. The lean officer notices that the atmosphere gets more relaxed with every round that the game continues, as after the fifth round, men start cheering even. Although Griffith and Carlos admonish them sternly to remain quiet, this does not dampen the increasingly good mood.

By the twentieth round, Dietrich's shoulder hurts considerably and his right hand shakes noticeably, but none of the men around is not bearing a smile. Thus Hans ends the game with some relief that this has indeed not been in vain, as he shuffles the cards one last time and returns them to Tully Pettigrew with a quietly muttered "Thank you". "You gotta teach that trick of yours", Griffith mutters to the German Captain conspiratorially. "I'm sure Baker's always cheating at Poker and I'd like to pay him back at some point." "I don't teach this skill to cheat when playing cards, Lieutenant", the younger officer admonishes sternly, before his expression turns more sly. "But if you're eager to see Baker receiving a lesson, I'd offer playing Poker against him myself." Griffith grins widely at that offer, hitting the lean officer on the back with such force that Hans has to suppress a groan of pain when in addition to his shoulder, his cracked ribs and several of the bruises along his torso protest vehemently. "That's what that weasel deserves. I'll take you along next time, Capt'n", the American hobby boxer promises, unaware of his Captain's suffering who realizes that Griffiths is merely like a bull in a china shop, but not intending to harm him.

Nonetheless, the German officer is relieved to escape from him and return to his men. Pettigrew, Gottschlich and Turner have built up their tent and moved sleeping bags and blankets inside. True to his routine, the German Captain checks the two nightwatch soldiers. Private Umbridge smiles openly at the Captain. "You're almost as much of a stage star as your cousin, Captain", he assures his new idol with true adoration in his tone. "Thank you, Private", Dietrich mutters, slightly ashamed of himself to trick the naive young man. "Maybe you could teach me some of this, Captain", Umbridge continues with a pleading tone and big eyes that Fritz has immunized Hans against. "Maybe, but currently this is neither possible nor appropriate, Private Umbridge", the German officer replies sternly, much to Jack Moffit's amusement who listens to the ensuing debate. "Gentlemen. As all is in order, I trust in your diligence to watch over all of us", Hans finally adds smoothly, providing a wincing saluting to the soldiers who both return it.

As Hans Dietrich returns to their tent, he finds one fruit and two candy bars, as well as two packs with dried fruits. "What's this about?", the German officer inquires with a scowl. "It's your share, Cap", Tully Pettigrew declares proudly and, seeing the young Captain's incredulous stare, adds an explanation: "Of the winnings. Guys bet on you not being able to guess the card and lost all the time. I thought it's fair to share, since you're the main star." "You cheated people into betting against me?", Hans inquires with disbelief. "It's not cheating. They wanted to bet and they were really entertained and happy, though they couldn't fathom how you're doing this right all the time", Tully defends himself. Sighing wearily, Dietrich pinches his nose, as he admonishes sternly: "I should put you on penal duty for something like this instead of accepting such a bribe, Pettigrew." "You wouldn't, would you?", the young American Private asks slightly unsure. "Take this stuff and give it to someone who needs and appreciates it, for example Ari and Kiri! And don't you dare ever starting betting rounds based on my performance, Private Pettigrew!", the German Captain admonishes sternly. "Okay, Cap", Tully mutters with some relief to not be punished. Dietrich apparently is too honest to be involved in some of his schemes, but he would not punish him with unfair severeness either. "I told you to stop such nonsense, as I won't bail you out the next time you get caught for one of your shady side businesses, Tully!", Troy scolds him as well, before all of them turn to their respective sleeping bags.

When the lean German officer can finally lie down for the night and curl up in his blanket, he has fallen asleep within a minute, not even noticing the American Sergeant putting him under scrutiny. Hans Dietrich has reacted more leniently than most of their own brass, probably because it is Tully and he knows him well, but possibly because he does not belief in antagonising a good soldier through unnecessarily stern punishements and idiotic chicken shit on principle. Such stuff as the damned Major has punished Troy himself with would never occur to the reasonable young Captain. If they have to have an officer coming with them all the time, it is good to know that he is at least a fair man who will not backstab his men.

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News article on Rommel's attitude and citation:

. /newspaper/article/68783199