Changed Ways in North Africa

by The Ravenwolf

Following directly where "Change of Ways" has left off, this story follows Dietrich and his enlarged Rat Patrol into Tobruk and a new type of war for all of them in North Africa.

9. The Mata Hari Raid

"We are invited to a place named 'The Desert Rose'", Dietrich announces to his men who have assembled in the courtyard. "That sounds lovely", Hitch declares with a gleeful grin. "Do they have beer?", Troy asks suspiciously. "Our special friend Merlin", Hans starts out sarcastically, smirking as he sees Troy grimace, "has assured us that the place serves beer and whiskey even, as it has recently come into the hands of an acquaintance of Fagin. As we know that he has no troubles dealing with thieves, fences and smugglers, we can safely assume that a man owning a lavish restaurant and bar in a city which has more than a year of war and sieges behind it is following at least one of these illustrious occupations." Jack Moffit smiles with silent amusement at the Captain's summary after having heard the much more fanciful description Lieutenant Colonel Alexander McLean has just provided in front of the Generals and high ranking officers. Dietrich's assessment is probably not only correct, but also far more straightforward and honest. "Where is that amazing place where we can drink all the beer and whiskey we want on Merlin's cost?", Troy wants to know. "At least you still have your priorities straight, Sergeant", the German officer comments with dry amusement. "It is near the main street in the domestic district where we also learned about the Desert's Breath." Hitch smiles widely. "Maybe we even run into Gabrielle." "Who?", Troy wants to know. "Your lady acquaintance for whom you're willing to risk your engagement I assume", Hans growls with a scowl. "If you'd meet Gabrielle, you'd understand that she is ... stunning, a true lady, commanding a whole room's attention in a heartbeat with her elegance, her grace, her charisma", Mark argues, looking positively starry-eyed. Dietrich sighs wearily and shakes his head. "You have to live with your decisions, Hitchcock. We have to live with you whining and complaining afterwards." "You know us really damn well for only having been with us for a few weeks, Captain", Troy declares with a grin, patting the lean officer on the shoulder. "The fact that he has a reputation even in German hospitals is quite telling", the young Captain counters with dry sarcasm.

"Before we go for dinner though I insist that all of us get a shower and changed. We're all sweaty after this scavenger hunt under the sun", Hans declares. "You in particular after your fight in the arena, Captain", Troy comments with a grin. "That's a smart idea. Let's meet here again in 15 minutes!" The German officer nods in agreement. "Until then, gentlemen." "I'm already washed and changed. I'll keep an eye on you, Cap", Tully offers to all their surprise. "With Captain Warren and his unit gone, I won't need a bodyguard", Dietrich insists with a scowl. "You made several enemies today, Captain", Jack Moffit intercedes, noticing Troy's indignant expression. "Tully is right that it's better, if somebody stays with you as support and backup." The proud Captain grimaces for a moment and struggles against his stubborn pride, but finally nods. "You're right. Come along, Pettigrew, but stay outside of the officers' facilities. And don't steal anything from anybody!" "I won't", Tully promises coolly. "See you all later then", Hans states a bit awkwardly.

The German and the Kentuckian make their way to Dietrich's room where they find Bastet curled up on the foot mat. As soon as the young officer unlocks the door though, she gets up and rubs her head against his shin, before strolling into the room as if owning it. The Captain packs his clothes to change into while Pettigrew leans against the doorframe scanning the room curiously. "Lotsa books, Cap", the Private comments nonchalantly. "Compliments to Merlin. My chances of dying of boredom are at least nonexistent", Hans replies dryly. Noticing the kitten trying to jump onto his bed, he tells the young soldier: "Catch Bastet and carry her outside! I don't want her to stay in my room unsupervised for a whole evening." The little cat at first expects to receive some help, when she is picked up, but soon protests through meowing against being carried away from her target, the soft bed. Hans quickly locks the door to his room, before Tully sets her down. In spite of indignant protests and desperate pleas in the form of meowing and hissing, none of the two opens the door for the kitten again. Instead they wander off down the hallway. When they hear "What...? Get out!" behind them, they both know that Bastet has found her new victim in the form of James Boggs. Briefly exchanging a glance, the two quickly escape down the hallway.

As arranged, Tully waits patiently outside the door to the officers' bathrooms where Dietrich takes his shower. Fortunately, they are off the main schedule to not meet too many men here. Only Lieutenant Williams is about to prepare for his shift. Upon spotting the young Captain, he takes in his bruised appearance. "Is it true what the men are boasting about, that you beat Captain Warren in a hand to hand duel?", he finally inquires curiously, while helping the skinny Captain who discards the bandages around his midsection. "Yes", Hans replies monosyllabically. "Why on earth did you do that?", the typically calm and controlled American Lieutenant asks incredulously. "His Sergeant and some of his men have harassed Corporal Gottschlich for his Japanese heritage. I pleaded with their commanding officer, Captain Warren, to intervene, but he merely slandered and harassed me as well. After his men attacked and beat up Gottschlich and Pettigrew this morning, when the Private helped him to defend himself and the Corporal against the ambush, I tried to reason with Captain Warren again, but to no avail", Dietrich argues. "Then, he went after the Corporal again, while we were training in the courtyard, challenging him to a hand to hand fight. At that point I proposed to fight against him myself." "But you're seriously injured, Sir", Williams comments with worry. "I'd still rather stand in my men's defence than let them become victims of unjustified slanders and attacks", the proud young officer counters. "I didn't mean to criticize you. Our boys celebrate you like a hero", Williams assures him. Dietrich nods a bit warily, but acknowledges the statement. Williams has always been calm and reasonable so that he trusts his word and honesty. The Lieutenant even helps him into his shirt and jacket, before they both depart. "Thank you, Williams. I hope that you have a quiet shift", Hans tells him with a friendly tone. The man is among his men, since he belongs to Captain Boggs' unit where Dietrich serves as second in command nowadays, and has always been reliable and loyal until now. "Thank you. Good evening, Captain", the American officer replies with an honest smile. "I hope it'll be quiet. I'll grab some coffee before I go to man the radio."

"Well done, Pettigrew", Williams tells the baffled Kentuckian, as he sees the bruised Private waiting outside for his Captain, before he leaves. Tully eyes Dietrich curiously, before asking with a surprised tone: "What did you tell him?" "I told him the truth, Pettigrew, that you stood in your comrade Gottschlich's defense against the thugs from Warren's unit", the German officer replies nonchalantly. Tully shifts his matchstick, as he grins. "Thanks, Cap." "You deserve it, Pettigrew. Let's join the rest to get our well-deserved dinner!", Hans replies with a smile. Troy and the rest indeed wait in the courtyard already where Hitch pets an enthusiastically yelping Fritz. "Captain, we desperately require a reasonable decision", Jack Moffit addresses him with an exasperated tone. "They want to take the misbehaved mutt along." "You'd better mind your words when addressing one of our Privates, Moffit", Dietrich counters dryly with a sly grin, enjoying the British Sergeant's incredulous expression. "But you are right that Fritz is by far not well-behaved enough to take him along, although the same might be said about Hitchcock as well. Fritz, los. Geh, hol Futter!" The brown dog jumps to his paws at the order to get himself some food. Yelping and fawning happily, he dashes off toward the kitchen. "Problem solved", Dietrich mutters dryly. "I suppose we should enjoy our evening rather than dwell on this." "Let's shake it! The bar where beer and whiskey flow is waiting for us", Sam announces with a grin, waving for the rest of them to follow him.

Snorting with quiet amusement at the declaration, the German Captain leads the way through Tobruk's streets. Now that it is dark, the city looks quite different, as hardly any light shines in the streets which people do not carry with them in the form of their oil lamps or electric torches in case of the soldiers. The windows are mostly protected by shutters which let only little light escape onto the street. "I'm starting to gain a sense of orientation", Moffit declares, while Thomas Anaru mutters: "I prefer the open landscapes of the desert or the dense forest. These narrow winding streets feel like traps for me." "Those Arab cities are quite a different experience from the desert, but also from our cities in Australia or New Zealand", Daniel O'Donnell agrees with him. "I'm feeling with you, Tommy. I also like the desert more, though not as much as our good old hometown Kapunda", his brother Kevin agrees with the Maori. "How do you recognize where you are?", Troy asks their guide meanwhile. "No two streets look the same and many houses have their own small characteristics as well. Look at the balcony over there, the mosaics with geometric ornaments are quite characteristic. And you find such ornaments above almost every house. Or you can also discern them by how the windows are formed or where they are placed!", Hans points out to him with patience resulting from his increasingly good mood. Sam nods and grumbles: "I see. You can memorize all those?" "I'm good at memorizing information, especially maps. I have the map of Tobruk in my head and I can read it, as if I would be holding it in my hand, if I concentrate for a few seconds", the German Captain replies quietly. "That's an amazing skill", Troy declares with actual respect. "It's a necessary skill for many observation officers or those in command of mobile units", Hans argues modestly, considering this nothing special. "Can't wait to be out in the desert with you, Captain. Never had anyone with me who knew all his area maps by heart", Sam supplies with a smile, enjoying the good mood as well. Jack Moffit meanwhile enjoys lecturing Riku Gottschlich about Libyan culture and people, as the Corporal has made the mistake of asking him curiously.

When they get closer to their destination, they can already hear the characteristic sound of swing music. Hitch starts moving along with the tact, wrapping an arm around Tully's shoulder, as he declares with a roguish grin: "I can feel it in every part of my body. This is gonna be an adventurous evening." Pettigrew merely snorts and eyes his friend dubiously. Hitch burning for a new flame is nothing new for him and he therefore does not worry about it. "I know that song", Kevin comments with a grin, falling into the same mood as their American comrade. "That's Glen Miller with his band", Hitch tells him with a grin, wrapping his other arm around Kevin's shoulder. "Finally someone who understands me." "He hasn't even drunk anything yet", Hans wonders incredulously. "That's Hitch, when he's drunk on a new girl", Sam explains to him with a wide grin. "I don't want to be in Lieutenant Hartigan's shoes", Jack adds with a whisper. "That wildcat can fight for herself", Troy growls with annoyance. "I hope they have some good old Country music as well. Haven't heard Roy Acuff in a while." "That's not my type of music", the lean officer makes the mistake of declaring. "That's just 'cause you've never been to a real saloon or ridden through our prairies or mountains on horseback. I'm gonna take you along, when we go visit Helen and Ma back home in Wyoming", Troy tells him, patting the slightly wary young German on the shoulder. "When have we ever agreed on visiting your family together?", Dietrich asks, sounding just as incredulous as he looks. "You're an American now and my friend along with Davey's. Helen will forgive you about the stolen letter", Sam argues. "I'm not David's friend and I can't just force myself upon your family", Hans counters as politely as possible. "You're forcing nobody. I know that you're a good guy. But there's no justification not to like Country music for you", Troy counters unperturbed. Out of the corner of his eyes Hans sees Tully merely shake his head, indicating him not to continue discussing this topic with the stubborn Sergeant. "I haven't even listened to it beyond the few Western movies I have seen as a teenager", the German relents, nodding back to the Private who shifts his matchstick in acknowledgement. "That's unacceptable. We gotta introduce you to some really good music", Sam argues enthusiastically. Dietrich's worst fear that he might start singing himself does not come true at least, as the American Sergeant vows: "I gotta talk to the guy responsible for the discs." "Goodness, Captain. I don't know what you have just triggered, but it's scary", Jack Moffit whispers to the young officer who looks just as startled as the British scholar.

As they enter the bar, a slick American with oily black hair approaches the group, wearing a dishonest overly bright smile. "Welcome to the Desert Rose. I'm Larry Sullivan. Just call me Smokey. And just wave one of the gals or me over, when you need something. You must be Merlin's special guests." Looking for the officer among them, his gaze wanders from Troy to Moffit, before resting on the bruised skinny young man, recognizable as their superior only from his uniform and straight stance. "You're their Lieutenant, I suppose", he greets Dietrich with his subservient smile that immediately annoys the proud young German. "Captain. I'm their Captain", the lean officer counters with unmistakable pride. "I'm terribly sorry, Captain. I'm honored that you and your boys will be my guests for tonight", the middle-aged man continues in the same manner that makes Hans thoroughly regret to not have returned to the Arab and his wives where they have been for lunch. "Please have a seat over there. We will bring you your beer and a bottle of whiskey right away." "Hey, Smokey. Do you have some good old Country music among your discs? I need to teach my new friend over here what real American music is", Troy declares immediately. The slick American bar owner is momentarily stunned by the request. "Sure, I have some discs. Just give me a minute or two", he assures Troy who nods contently. "I can wait till after we get our beer", he magnanimously offers.

The proprietor changes to another swing record, before serving their beer and promising Troy that he will come up with his Country music as soon as possible. The O'Donnells are the first to raise their beer bottles and declare: "To our Captain. The brave hero who cut that ratbag Warren down." "To our Captain", the rest of the Rats immediately join in, raising their bottles. Dietrich meets their gaze directly, declaring in a similar manner: "To the best unit I could have. Whoever calls you a motley crew had better look at your achievements today. You earned this evening for us all." After clinking their bottles they all enjoy their first gulp of beer. Moffit and Dietrich exchange a glance, before the British Sergeant voices their thoughts: "This is actually acceptable beer." "Of course it is. I obtained it from... what remained of the German officer's clubs", the bar owner protests, as he returns, showing a record to Troy. "This is the hit of the year among the soldiers, Elton Britt, 'There's A Star Spangled Banner Waving Somewhere'. I got it from a soldier who lost it in a Poker game." "That sounds good for integrating him among the Yankees", Troy agrees with a grin. "You're one of the exiles?", Smokey asks the young officer. "You could call me that", Hans replies dryly. "You'll feel like a real Yankee after that, Capt'n. Your Sergeant here's right. There's nothing like Country music to make you feel like an American", the proprietor declares with a sanctimonious grin.

Hans scowls, as he observes the man, but listens to the music and lyrics intently. A star spangled banner. It has not even occurred to him yet that this is his flag, representing his homeland now. It is a strange feeling to change his flag again within his short lifetime. First it has changed from the black, red and yellow of the Weimar Republic to Nazi Germany's Swastika on red ground. Now the Stars and Stripes of the United States of America symbolize his national flag. Focusing back on the text he leaves the thoughts of uncertainness for now. "In this war with its mad schemes of destruction", the singer sings, making the German Captain wince. How many mad schemes and how much destruction has he seen in this war? Far too much of both. The man even summarizes the culprits quite well as "the mad dictators, leaders of corruption". How many of the Führer's orders have been utter madness, ruining his homeland, Germany, along with half of Europe and North Africa? Many of the men around the table smirk at the line "Let me help to bring the Axis down a peg", while their commanding officer winces again at the reminder of his twisted path which has led him to fighting against the Axis troops, although he has stood with them until two months ago, fighting for his fatherland.

Moffit, who is less enthralled by the music than Troy, notices the young man's internal struggle, putting his hand on the lean German's shoulder, whispering to him: "Even if you won't consider yourself a hero for any of that, you are for what you dare to face through your decision, Captain." Hans meets Jack's gaze who reads some of his torment in the haunted brown eyes. Although he does not voice his thoughts, Dietrich nods to the British Sergeant curtly with an expression of gratitude and appreciation. Two rather scarcely dressed native women serve them their first course of the meal, a fish soup with flatbread. They also offer whiskey, filling for everyone a glass without even asking whether this is wanted. "To the star spangled banner and all our heroes!", Troy offers his toast, clinking his glass with the rest.

"Corrine, Corrina", the next record plays out. Now even Tully hums along and mutters: "Ma and Pa used to play that when we were kids." "I knew you were a good country boy, Tully", Sam assesses with a smile. "I'm not sure I'll be able to integrate with the Yankees", Dietrich mutters to Moffit conspiratorially. "Britain might grant you asylum from this", the English Sergeant whispers back dryly. Hitch notices their whispering and agrees: "I know, Cap. I can't stand that either. Swing, jazz, that's my kinda music, but not that yodeling and yowling." Then, he gets up and pats the young German on the shoulder. "There's one song that's amazing though. One of my girlfriends at college used to love it and we'd dance to it, whenever we could. Ah, good old times." Then he meets with the proprietor and negotiates the next record to be played.

"You are my sunshine, my only sunshine", the loudspeaker of the gramophone resounds. This is a song they can all live with and enjoy their next course for which they are served beer again and all who want some more whiskey. "That's a Jambalaya", Tully exclaims, smiling widely, as he recognizes the dish with rice, shrimps and vegetables. Unfamiliar with this, Hans Dietrich listens to the description of the dish through Hitchcock and Pettigrew, which also draws the O'Donnells' and Anaru's attention, while Gottschlich eats it quietly, but seems to savour the seafood. After this follows the main course which is again seafood based, since this is the only fresh food available in town. This time the fish has been grilled and a sauce of tomatoes, peppers and aubergines put on top, while couscous mixed with enough dried fruits to make it taste sweet is the side dish which is much to Troy's liking. Distracted by the food he even tolerates that the music is switched back to swing, as Hitch has arranged with Smokey.

"Now that you're finished with the main course, maybe you'd like to continue drinking at our bar, down in the cellar", the slimy barman offers. "We also have our dance floor and specialists for entertainment waiting to look after our guests there." Hitch grins widely. "Now you're talking. Sure, we're going, aren't we, Cap?" Dietrich looks a bit skeptical, but nods in agreement. "Then we won't disturb your actual restaurant guests", he offers politely. Smokey looks a bit astonished, but smiles. "I can tell that you're a European of good breeding. What did you do before your exile? Study at college?" "I was an officer of the German army", Hans replies dryly, annoyed enough by the man to not care about shocking him. The slick bar owner stares at him for a few moments, before laughing hard. "I get it. You're a German and an officer and had your troubles with their army... good one." Dietrich blinks, baffled by what the man considers so funny, while Moffit rolls his eyes and Tully mutters quietly: "Idiot."

Troy pats his friend's shoulder gently and mutters: "Let him talk. Better than calling you a kraut or starting a fist fight. You've already fought enough of those for today. We all know what we have with you." Dietrich nods briefly in response, while Hitch is the most eager to make his way to the bar, grabbing their half-full third whiskey bottle and moving downstairs. Riku Gottschlich however appears rather affected by the amount of alcohol even though he has not drunk as much as some of the others. Kevin helps him up and supports the young Corporal, muttering: "Your first time drunk, Gotty?" The young man nods, looking truly ashamed of himself. "Don't worry", the Australian assures him, as he intends to help him down the staircase. "We got experience. We're from an Irish family and Browny trained us well. We'll look after you." Thomas Anaru has been almost as restrained as the German Captain who has just finished his second beer after the main course only taking tiny sips of the whiskey before having eaten, while the rest have enjoyed quite an amount of whiskey and sweet date liquor along with the food.

"Hitch, my darling. Long time no see." A blond woman exclaims, as she strolls through the bar room toward the door, smiling widely. Troy, following behind Mark Hitchcock, grins widely, when she greets the American Private with a deep kiss. "Gabrielle", Hitch pronounces her name with undaunted adoration. "Finally, I can meet your friends, the famous Rat Patrol", she purrs with excitement in a French sounding accent, as more of his comrades enter the room. Her gaze moves to his companions, resting first at Troy to whom she winks playfully, moving over a grinning Pettigrew and a politely smiling Moffit to finally land on the tall, skinny brown-haired man in an officer's uniform. "Who is your handsome friend who looks like he comes freshly from the galleys?", Gabrielle asks curiously to anyone in general. "That's Captain Dietrich. He's the best brass we've ever had. He saved my life twice already", Mark explains briefly but with enthusiasm. The woman eyes the German Captain with increased interest who keeps a stern expression on his face, as he observes her cautiously. "I know for sure that most of America's and Britain's captains are older than him and few are as handsome. From your name I'd guess that you're German. Is that true, Prince Charming?", she purrs to the young officer directly now who appears slightly incredulous at being addressed in such a manner. Dietrich scowls and replies with dry sarcasm: "Yes, I am a German originally. In your own best interest I would recommend that you mind your way of dealing with soldiers and officers in particular, Madam." Her smile becomes almost predatory, as she steps within touching range of him and smirks with mischievous glee when she notices the young Captain tense uncomfortably at having his personal space invaded: "I would have thought that you could be a lot more charming, Captain. Mark described his CO as an officer and gentleman of the old school after all." The German's reservation only increases through the statement, as he bows politely, but does not take her hand to indicate a kiss, as he usually does.

"Hey, fellas. Wait for us!", Kevin O'Donnell declares as he enters the bar with Gottschlich's arm wrapped around his shoulder, but stops immediately to stare at the woman with a perplexed expression, obviously enticed by her stunning beauty. "Get inside and out of the way, Kev!", his brother Daniel scolds, as he pushes him forward. The woman's eyes become even wider when the other four soldiers have finally arrived. "Here comes our backup, the truly charming men of our unit", Dietrich states dryly, when he notices the Australians stare at her with slightly infatuated gazes, while Gottschlich's gaze appears to be woozy from the alcohol and Anaru appears stunned. Gabrielle is truly delighted, as she tells Mark: "In addition to a handsome and exotic young Captain, you have a whole band of interesting friends, Hitch, you didn't tell me about. You need to introduce me." "Exotic?", Hans repeats with a puzzled and amused expression that he is called exotic, when compared to Gottschlich, Anaru and the O'Donnells he would have considered being a German quite ordinary.

The blond courtesan grins at him, placing her arm on his right shoulder which not only makes him uncomfortable but also wince with pain. "The Brits sent us whole battalions of Australians and New Zealanders. For a whole year I had no different clientele, until the Germans and Italians arrived. And now I'm back to the same old routine. But a real German Captain is something I have no chance of meeting safely outside a POW camp nowadays." Hans winces at the statement, as a tormented grimace briefly passes over his face. Gabrielle appears unperturbed, when she notices the effect of her words and her close proximity on the young officer, as she continues: "Also, you're a U.S. army officer and speak English like a native in addition which makes you truly exotic, Captain Dietrich." The blond woman winks seductively, as she asks another question with a smooth voice, before any of the men addresses her: "Tell me, darling, are you really Marlene Dietrich's cousin?" Through her tight grip, she can feel the tall lean man's muscles tense at the question. "Do you wish to ask her for verification of my identity?", the young officer asks dryly. "I wish I could. Do you have her address?", the blond woman inquires with a smirk, enjoying her game of cat and mouse. "We're rather distant cousins", Hans replies with a tone as dry as the desert.

She laughs heartily at the joke, before offering them all: "Take your seats, gentlemen. Friends of Mark's are friends of mine. I'll just tell Smokey to prepare his specials for us." As she moves outside, Hans whispers to Troy: "I don't trust this woman." "Just because she asked you about Marlene Dietrich and has been a bit overly friendly for your prudish German officer standards", Sam grumbles in response. "No, because she knows too much, but pretends to know too little. Hitchcock just introduced me and all of a sudden she argues with all she has heard about me being Marlene Dietrich's cousin", the German Captain argues with annoyance. "Or she told us how much she had heard from him about me being an officer and gentleman after Hitchcock had only just introduced me and she was astounded to meet me, asking who I was." "Hitch tells everyone all the time how you're his best Captain ever. Nothing strange about that", Sam counters. "She's very flirtatious and very eager to get to know us, me in particular. I'm rather safe than sorry, Troy. Keep your eyes open!", Dietrich warns, observing the woman warily, as she returns.

During the dessert and following rounds of whiskey, the blond woman chats and entertains them jovially. Hans mainly sips from his glass, taking more time than most of his unit, since he wants to keep a cool and level head, when dealing with the woman he suspects of being an agent. For the next hour he continues his careful observations, although he tries to pretend to be enticed by her which is easier than he thinks as he just has to copy the behaviour of Hitchcock or the Australians who watch her with obvious infatuation. Mark's jealousy gets triggered more and more, when she not only flirts openly with all his comrades, but also focuses her interest more on Dietrich than on him in spite of their affair starting last night. Anger, jealousy and alcohol are not a healthy combination and at some point, Tully leads his tipsy friend outside, when he starts swearing loudly. Gabrielle observes them out of the corner of her eyes, before focusing her attention on the skinny Captain opposite her. "Would you accompany me briefly, Captain? I would like to have a word with you in private", she purrs into the tall German's ear who has to control himself to not shudder, as his instinct warns him of the trap.

Instead of a scowl Hans forces himself to put on a charming smile, as he remembers Merlin's admonishment about wearing his heart on his sleeve which sabotages his spywork, while he bows politely. "Of course. How may I assist you?" "This is more the officer and gentleman, I have expected, Captain Dietrich. I hope you let me borrow your commanding officer for a little while, my dears", Gabrielle declares with a tempting tone. While standing up, Hans turns halfway and whispers to Troy: "Trap. Check on me in a few minutes." The American Sergeant shakes his head in disbelief, before giving a curt nod. Then, the blond dancer wraps her arm around Dietrich's left one and leads him along with her up the first stairwell and then to another narrow stairway hidden behind a carpet. Up in the first floor she guides the tall officer toward her room, muttering: "It's sweet of you to come and help me with this. I don't know who else I should turn to but a man of honor who won't condemn me because of my workplace." "What exactly is it that you need my help for?", Dietrich inquires, cautiously scanning the dark hallway with his eyes, pretending to be focused on her. She unlocks and opens her room, before taking two steps inside. Without closing the door or even giving the lean Captain much time for reacting as he enters, she turns around and kisses him intensely.

Hans is taken by surprise, but fights down his initial urge to push her away, as he sees his moment come to check the small handbag, worn at her side. Pretending to wrap his arms around her, the young officer inconspicuously opens the bag's clip and cautiously holds the bag with the other hand, trying to cover his movements as tightening his grip on the courtesan. The skinny man can feel the stormy dancer unbutton his jacket and shirt at the bottom, moving her fingers over his skin, while he rummages through toiletry in her handbag as stealthily as possible. When his fingers wrap around the hilt of a stiletto, he can feel her fingernails digging deeply into the skin of his abdomen, drawing blood, as she scratches him with her long, sharp fingernails. Troy should arrive soon enough as his backup Hans hopes, when he winces with pain. While he cautiously draws the stiletto from its sheath, Dietrich suddenly hears a slurred outcry from a jealous Hitchcock who has sneaked up the stairs behind them. "What's going on? Gabrielle? How could you, Cap?"

At this precise moment, hell breaks loose, since the young officer abandons stealth, as he swiftly draws and points her own stiletto at the agent. A moment later he hears a loud crash behind him, suspecting Hitchcock of being involved. "Sie sind gut, Hauptmann Dietrich", the woman declares coldly in flawless German, as her eyes focus on her prey. Hans feels slightly dizzy and nauseous, concentrating to focus, while he glares at the treacherous woman. "Abwehr?", he hisses at her with a hateful tone. "Major Ingelheimer lässt Sie grüßen", she sends Ingelheimer's regards. However the thin Captain does not get a chance to respond, when he gets caught from behind, as a strong man attacks him. Knowing that calling for backup is his only chance, Dietrich bellows loudly: "Abwehr. Trap." Then he gets smashed into the doorframe brutally and hears the woman order coldly: "Wir brauchen ihn lebend." The fact that they need him alive might be promising, but his opponent is well-trained in disarming an armed opponent and forcefully knocks his left hand against the doorframe until with a groan of pain Dietrich drops the stiletto for which the female agent dives instantly.

Desperately, the German Captain kicks at the man behind him, catching him in the groin which makes his opponent grunt painfully and stumble. Yet the agent appears well-trained enough as he still manages to physically knock the young Captain's head against the doorframe, stunning him momentarily. Smashing the former Wehrmacht Hauptmann's head against the woodenframe a second time with more force and brutality makes Dietrich black out completely, not even hearing Mark's shocked outcry anymore. "Don't move or make a sound or you won't sire another child!", the woman hisses coldly, as she presses her stiletto against Hitch's groin forcefully enough to make the young American squeak like Bastet when someone steps on her paw. Her partner kicks the unmoving Captain violently in the ribs, checking that he is not faking unconsciousness, before pointing the gun he draws now at the American's head, not a moment too soon, as Troy comes up through the narrow stairway with his own gun drawn. "Drop your weapon or you lose your Private!", the blond woman declares coldly. "Troy, do what she says!", Moffit pleads with his friend and colleague, coming up behind him. The British Sergeant is worried that the two enemy agents do not even care about Dietrich and fears that the German Captain is dead already, as blood trickles down the unmoving man's temple who lies crumpled in the open doorway to a room.

"I offer you your Captain in return for our freedom and safe retreat. We keep this little stallion here to guarantee that you keep your word", the blond woman offers coldly, pressing her stiletto harder into Hitchcock's sensitive parts, making him whimper slightly. "You worthless bitch!", Troy snarls angrily. "Troy", Moffit tries to rein him in. "We accept your trade, but only if you let us check whether the Captain is still alive." "He's out from the knock against the head and drugs, but not dead. Check his pulse, if you don't believe me, Sergeant Moffit!", the female agent orders coldly. Jack kneels at the young officer's side and checks the Captain's vitals, breathing a sigh of relief, when he feels a strong pulse. "He's alive, Troy." "We accept your proposal", Sam reluctantlyseals the deal with an angry snarl. The woman moves the stiletto to Mark's throat, as she stands up now, before directing him to slowly pass by the Rat Patrol's Sergeants to another small staircase at the end of the hallway, hidden behind a wooden door. The German agents lock the door behind them, forcing a slightly tipsy, drunk Hitch onto the street where a horse drawn carriage awaits them. Moffit observes them galloping off from the window on the first floor, before Troy, Tully and the O'Donnells have managed to break down the door to the staircase which robs them of any chance to catch up with them. As long as Hitch is their hostage Jack does not dare to shoot either.

Frustrated at the feeling of being powerless against a superior enemy, Moffit focuses on the situation at hand, as hecalls Anaru and Gottschlich to help him move Dietrich onto the bed, where he checks the German Captain's head wound, before he opens the younger man's blood stained shirt. "The scratches on his abdomen are unusually deep. This must be how she applied the drugs she mentioned", Jack assesses. "Fetch some whiskey for disinfecting these, Thomas!" The Maori Private dashes off, while the Japanese descended American still tries to steady himself, leaning against the wall. With a howl of frustration the dark-haired American Sergeant enters the room again and punches the doorframe with frustration, before Sam steps closer, looking actually worried at the sight of his unconscious bleeding friend. "I don't get it. He already suspected her, before he went with her, even told me to come as his backup", Troy growls with exasperation. "Why did he let her poison him? I should never have left him alone with this." "It's not your fault. The Captain knew what he was doing and we came to help him as soon as we heard the noise", Jack argues, observing the unconscious German officer with as much worry as his friend. "Sarge, we had no chance. That cart was too fast and we can't track it in the city", Tully reports, gritting his teeth at the thought that the German agents have managed to abduct his friend in front of their very eyes. "How did we run into a trap like that?", Sam rants, venting his frustration by pacing the room and punching the bed's headboard.

When Thomas Anaru returns with the whiskey bottle, Jack first disinfects the Captain's head wound, then pours an ample amount over Dietrich's stomach. They all notice the skinny German twitching and groaning lowly immediately, showing that his unconsciousness is not deep. As soon as the young man starts stirring though, Jack and Sam grab his shoulders and arms quickly to keep him from fighting them on instinct. "Abwehragenten", Dietrich slurs, obviously unaware of his surroundings and still affected by the drugs, as he speaks in his native language rather than English. "Ich verstehe, Herr Hauptmann. Abwehragenten", Jack repeats, speaking calmly in German. "Moffit, my English is still better than your German", Hans drawls a few seconds later, before cracking open an eye and looking at the British Sergeant wearily who squeezes his shoulder with a gentle smile. "It's good to see your sense of humor returning, Captain. You had us quite worried for a moment." "Hitchcock", Dietrich mutters with worry and concern. "They took Hitch as their hostage. We lost the trail. They had a horse cart", Sam growls angrily. Thomas Anaru meanwhile tears a white blouse into straps to use for bandaging, while Gottschlich fights to not topple over or start throwing up. Tully and the O'Donnells start to rummage through the cupboard and drawers of a commode with a mirror on top.

Jack Moffit assesses his commanding officer's injuries, telling the young Captain with gentle firmness: "Stay put for a moment, so I can dress your wounds." The skinny German officer blinks once, then nods curtly with a grim expression, as he asks with a slight slur remaining: "You disinfected them, Doctor?" "That's what woke you up. These scratches look painful", the British Sergeant assesses. "How could you let this harlot get you like this?", Sam snarls incredulously. "I had to distract her, while inconspicuously searching her bag for weapons", Dietrich argues with a noticeable slur, grimacing, when Moffit and Anaru put pressure on the wounds, as they provide his first aid. "She mentioned drugging you", Jack explains, while wrapping the bandages around the skinny German's waist with Thomas' assistance. The young officer blinks with confusion, then sighs. "She must have had some substance under her nails. She kissed me as soon as she opened the door. I thought that playing along to use the distraction for searching her bag would work, as I expected you to come as my backup shortly." Dietrich finally sounds more coherent the longer he speaks. Troy looks guilty however, as he mutters: "Sorry, it took us so long." "It's not your fault, Sergeant. I found the stiletto and drew it immediately, when she scratched me. Hitchcock arrived then, shouted and I assume her hidden accomplice attacked him first before attacking and disarming me. He knocked me out quickly, as I already felt dizzy from the drugs." "It was a well-set trap. This is neither of your fault", Jack argues, as he finishes wrapping the bandage around the young officer's head.

"Thank you, Doctor", Dietrich mutters, while he tries to get to his feet but fails, slumping back against the bed, when a wave of dizziness hits him. "Stay where you are, you stubborn Jerry", Troy admonishes him, as he catches the German officer under the armpit and helps him to sit down again without hitting his head, leaning against the headboard with the pillow in his back. "We need backup", Jack Moffit argues. "I don't trust that British bastard Merlin", Sam snarls. "We're better off on our own." "Troy!", the British Sergeant exclaims in exasperation. "He has a valid point, Moffit. After what happened this afternoon, I don't trust McLean either. Even if he didn't set us up to be captured by Abwehr, I wouldn't put it beyond him to use us as bait for drawing out the enemy agents", Hans argues, obviously wary after their run in. "He chose this location on purpose after testing our skills. He might also have sent us into the arena once found worthy. Tossing us into a snake pit to then check how we are faring. If he suspects this, he hopefully has his own agents already tailing them. If not, we need to find our comrade in arms on our own, as Merlin has his own agenda and Hitchcock is an expendable chessman for him, a pawn to sacrifice for his schemes." Troy snarls lividly upon hearing the assessment, while Jack nods in agreement. "I fear you are right. We need to track Hitch."

"Yeah. But how? We lost the trail", Troy growls angrily. "We're in the room the German agent used for seducing her target persons. Check the room for any leads!" Dietrich orders. "We already did. Found some fancy looking clothes and jewellery and more stinky perfumes than I thought existed", Daniel O'Donnell reports. Hans raises his eyebrows in a sarcastic expression, cocking his head slightly. "Knock on wall panels and the floor, check the mattress, blanket and pillow!", Hans mutters, as he grasps Troy's arm to allow the Sergeant to help him up from the bed. "That pillow felt really hard. Check it, Troy!" "Your sensitive back didn't lie, Captain. There's a gun in here", Sam growls, as he pulls out a small caliber gun and puts it into the German officer's hand. "That is the classical gun for a woman, small, light, easy to hide and put in a handbag. All that makes it ideal for an agent as well", Dietrich assesses. "Hitch was lucky he made it out of this snake pit alive", Troy declares. "If he would take his engagement and fidelity more seriously he wouldn't be in this situation at all", Moffit points out sternly. "I gave nurse Hartigan my word to remind him of that and I did so even, but to little avail. Maybe this experience will finally change something about his attitude", Dietrich argues a bit despondently. "It's not your fault that Hitchcock is a filou, Captain", Jack counters. "You did all you could with trying to talk sense into him."

Hitch observes the three German agents warily. That his beloved angel Gabrielle has turned into a demoness is still a shock for him. Initially they have speeded the horse cart to full gallop to escape the Rats. However after several turns they have reduced the speed, once assured that they are not followed. The dark Arabic streets all look the same for Hitch and he has basically lost all orientation where he is. But his fear that they drop him off somewhere in the dark foreign city at night is soon replaced by the fact that they simply do not consider dropping him off. "Your Captain at least thinks with his head rather than his lower parts, Mark", Gabrielle interrupts his thoughts, as she sneers contemptuously. Now she does not bother to hide her German accent by faking a French one. "We will see what we can get out of you." Hitchcock shudders involuntarily, but puts on a show of bravado he admires Sarge and Cap for. "You arranged with Doc Moffit that you'd let me go. Would you forgo your word? I thought Germans had honor." Her sweet smile drips nothing but poison. "Hauptmann Dietrich has taught you well about German honor, hasn't he? Of course, we will let you go, as we arranged. We simply didn't arrange when or where or in which state to release you with Doctor Moffit." Her eyes gleam with sadistic glee, when she notices Hitch paling and trying to move away from her. Her colleague simply presses his gun against the American's neck and snarls with a notable German accent: "Don't move!" "You're worth far less alive than your Captain would have been, but you know something and I know how to put pressure on a man to reveal things", she declares with the icy tone of a true torturer.

Hitch flinches when the horse cart suddenly pulls to a stop. "Get out!", the male agent orders, still pointing his gun at Hitch. "Ich werde Bericht erstatten. Bereiten Sie ihn für das Verhör vor", the blond woman declares coldly. Hitch recognizes the words report and interrogation thanks to Moffit's and Dietrich's lessons for which he is infinitely more grateful now, as it would be horrible to not understand anything at all, which has been his usual experience in German captivity until a few weeks ago. "Go here!", the agent orders Hitch as he grips his shoulder and steers him in the direction of a dark building, never taking down his gun. Gabrielle meanwhile enters the same building a few steps ahead of them and stalks off into a hallway after greeting the guards with an outstretched right arm and "Heil Hitler!". "Das ist einer von Dietrich's Ratten", the German agent explains to the guards, recruiting one as assistant immediately. Hitch smiles grimly in spite of his dire situation. Apparently, the Rat Patrol has enough of a reputation to not be underestimated by the intelligence agents, if he calls a second guard to help him against a single man with a broken arm. They'd better fear the Rats, if Troy and Dietrich come to free him.

"Found something!", Kevin reports enthusiastically, drawing all their attention. A wooden wall panel behind the bed's original position sounds hollow. At Dietrich's signal, the Australian removes it and uncovers a small space where several leather bound pouches and bundles are hidden. One makes the men gasp with shock, as it contains enough bills of dollars, pounds and Reichsmark to easily surpass all their salaries of half a year put together. Hans leaves it in Troy's hands to check the next bundle, while the Sergeant still counts the money with clear disbelief. "I thought so", the German Captain mutters grimly, as he unwraps three passports, one British, one Vichy French and one Swiss. "Our agent was prepared for every eventuality", he assesses. Moffit looks at the British passport closely. "Either this is extremely well forged or issued by a corrupt state servant, as this looks absolutely genuine to me." Dietrich who has studied the Vichy French passport nods in confirmation: "The same applies to this one. A German agent of Abwehr however does not even require to bribe someone to gain a false passport from the French government, cooperating with the Germans."

"All that doesn't help us to find Hitch", Troy growls angrily. Dietrich and Moffit shake their heads and continue searching through the things they have confiscated. Several are letters, but also a few notes which contain names and addresses. "Do any of those sound familiar?", the British Sergeant asks the German Captain who frowns, as he racks his brains. "These are mostly Westerners, but also two or three Arabs. They could be informants, but also targets", Dietrich mutters, before stopping short and pointing at a name on the list. "This one I know. Rodolfo Firanelli. He denounced Jews but also others such as collaborators with the enemy to the Axis forces, when the Afrikakorps held Tobruk. He is a fanatic and definitely a supporter of the Axis forces." A sly smile then spreads on his face. "What are you thinking, Captain Fox Kit?", Troy inquires with curiosity and new hope in Dietrich's plan. As soon as he has a target location, he can come up with all kinds of crazy plans, but this kind of situation is more of the German Captain's forte. "We still have the moment of surprise as I doubt that she warned her informants yet. We obtain help from the fort, arrest every person on this list and then propose a prisoner exchange", Dietrich suggests.

"I don't like involving the fort. Why don't we just kidnap that Italian guy and exchange him for Hitch", Troy counters. "I doubt that Hitchcock's life is in immediate danger", Hans explains calmly. "We have the chance now to do this properly and catch as many potential agents as we possibly can. And we can try to force Abwehr out of town with more than a single man to exchange, if we do this the right way. We're soldiers and this is a large-scale operation, not one for eight men", he scowls at the drunk and sick looking Gottschlich who has sat down on the bed, "seven men, with some injured." "You really trust the brass after all they did to you?", Sam growls slightly incredulously. "I don't have to trust them in order to know that it is my duty to inform our superiors, Troy", the German Captain argues. "This is more than we can handle on their own. It provides the Allies with the chance of a large success, if handled properly, keeping the whole picture in mind." "I start to see why you work the way you do, Captain", Troy growls. "I hate it to not just storm in there and force them to hand over Hitch, but I see your point." "We don't even know where to storm, which is our first problem. I also think that they won't harm Hitch, when they can interrogate him instead", Jack Moffit provides his opinion. "We didn't have any correct officer type with us before", the American Sergeant grumbles. "Let's do it your way then, Captain! Then we can still kick their butts for good, once we have Hitch back with us." "Your picturesque metaphors are a constant source for entertainment, Troy", Dietrich mutters dryly, as he signals the whole unit to go.

"What is going on?", Smokey, the owner, demands to know, when they come down the stairs again. "One of your courtesans is an agent of Abwehr and abducted one of our men. I fear that you will have to close this establishment for the night unless you can leave it in the hands of one of your trusted employees, as you will accompany us until you are cleared of the suspicion to collaborate with the enemy", the German Captain declares with harsh formality. Larry Sullivan pales, when he sees Troy and Moffit point their weapons at him. "Hugo", he calls the cook. "Close the kitchen and make sure that nothing happens to the place! I'll be back soon." When they gather outside, Dietrich orders Troy and Moffit: "You will return with this captive and all the information to the fort immediately. Doctor, are you able to find your way back from here?" "It's close to the main street. From there we take the bazaar road to the right and then follow the road to the fortress", Jack replies coolly. "Where do you think you're going?", Sam growls. "Private Pettigrew and I will recover further evidence, while we still have the moment of surprise. I recall that Hitchcock told us that he knows the 'Desert's Breath' and met his lady acquaintance, the woman we have met as Gabrielle today, although each of her passports says a different name, in this establishment yesterday. We will find her room and search for any evidence there, before joining you." "Captain Locksley, we'll return to Sherwood Forest and meet you after breaking into the Sheriff's chambers", Moffit states with a wry smile. "I'll stay with you for backup, Captain, keeping an eye on the street", Anaru offers. "Fine, Private Anaru. Three men are a group small enough for my operation. Privates O'Donnell, make sure that Gottschlich safely arrives in the fort and leave him either in your room or the hospital, depending on his state!" "Aye, Capt'n", Kevin O'Donnell confirms, tightening his grip to keep the half-Japanese Corporal upright. "Don't offend any officers, Troy! Moffit, you're in charge of diplomacy. Try to talk to the American officers first, in particular Captain Boggs. Leave him in one of their custody, not Merlin's, if you can", Dietrich orders, pointing at theshady bar owner Larry Sullivan.

After this brief arrangement their ways separate, as the main force of the Rat Patrol follows Moffit's directions through the city, while Tully and Thomas follow the German Captain through narrow side streets the young officer navigates with precision. When they arrive at the location they have last seen in the afternoon, they hear the music already in the streets. Behind the shutters of several upstairs windows they can make out light with only two rooms which are completely dark. "We stand a 50:50 chance to pick the right one, if we come from the outside. Or we try the way of the honest client", Dietrich mutters his assessment. "You stand no chance of climbing with your arm and we can't really open those windows silently, Cap", Tully replies professionally after studying the house for a few seconds. "So we will go inside. One of us provides the distraction and the other finds the right door and cracks it. You stay out here and warn us, Anaru!", Dietrich declares, accepting the Kentuckian Private's assessment without complaint, as he is of the same opinion. "I'll give you a distraction, Cap. You're the better burglar", Tully states calmly, as if talking about the weather. "I know a thing or two 'bout distracting people." The German Captain raises his eyebrows in an ironic expression, drawling: "Indeed. Don't repeat the Volcano stunt however!" "That worked perfectly, Cap", Pettigrew counters with a grin. "Good luck, Privates. We meet out here again", Hans wishes them, before entering the house with the Tully in his wake, refusing to comment on the statement.

A well-dressed woman greets them in the entrance hall. "What can I do for you, gentlemen?", she asks them with the overly friendly smile of a business woman. "We are looking for an acquaintance of ours, Merlin", Dietrich provides smoothly. "He assured us of your discretion." "You're his guests for tonight? He didn't tell me", she replies coolly. "We're merely here on his recommendation", Hans plays the polite distinguished gentleman, while Tully continues chewing on his matchstick which hides his expression perfectly. "I can lead you into one of our drawing rooms, but you might have to wait until one of our girls is available", the matron states in an all business manner. "We understand that you are busy with so many new soldiers in town", the German Captain assures her with a silky voice and natural politeness. "I see that you're a gentleman. What's your name?" "Warren, John, Captain of the infantry", Dietrich savors his reply. "This is my trusted Sergeant Clarence." The woman briefly glances at Tully, but continues to smile at Dietrich. "Warren. That name sounds familiar." "Timothy is my cousin", Hans replies with a grin, as he gloats upon the irony of the current situation. "And you're also a Captain like your cousin. You look pretty young." She assesses him from head to toe. "Looking at you, you must have been promoted only recently." "Indeed. For my valiant services in the field", the German Captain continues to lie, pointing at his fresh bandages around the head, while he starts to enjoy the charade more and more. Pettigrew's expression remains unmoved although he has a great time with this, almost as much as Dietrich.

Convinced by his polite manners and plausible story, the woman leads them into a separate room, calling for a servant girl to fetch a bottle of champagne. Hans politely asks her about the restrooms, when she serves their alcohol. With a final nod to Pettigrew, he sneaks off, looking for stairways leading upstairs which are not as discreetly hidden as in the other location. Swiftly Dietrich scales the stairs, constantly listening for footsteps. Once upstairs, the German Captain recalls the windows which have been dark as he cautiously approaches the first corresponding door. Some light reflecting under the door slit warns him that he is wrong here and quickly continues to the second option. No light and no sound indicate that it is unoccupied. Looking around and listening one more time for anybody approaching, Hans Dietrich retrieves his lockpicking tools, as he crouches before the door. Time is essential now, he knows and works with great concentration and precision. The additional training of the last days pays off now, as the lock clicks in less than a minute and the young officer swiftly opens it and disappears inside, just when he can hear louder voices behind another door, which is opened down the hallway.

Listening carefully whether he has been detected by anybody, Hans finally lets out a breath he has not realized he has been holding, before taking his electric torch from the belt pouch and silently moving around the room. This chamber has a similarity to the other one, only it is noticeably more richly decorated, the bed is bigger, while the cupboard is locked. Checking the commode which is stocked exactly in the manner Daniel O'Donnell has described it for the other room, yet in addition leaves him with a steel hairpincarved as a hidden knife, another small handgun as well as the key for the cupboard and a locked jewelry box. Suspecting Gabrielle to have more than just jewelry inside, Hans places it on the commode to take with him later, while he turns to the cupboard, unlocks it and starts his search through a fashion collection that would have fulfilled all his mother's and his sister's wildest dreams, ranging from colourful summer dresses made of silk to a fur-bordered cloak. A careful check of the back wall and the floor reveals a hidden compartment underneath the cupboard's floor which contains not only another small handgun and a similar amount of money of various currencies, but also an arsenal of bottles which contain poisons and narcotics, as far as Dietrich can recognize the substances from their Latin labels. Most interesting is a German passport in addition to a Belgian and an American one. Hans suspects that none of them contain the woman's real name or identity, but collects the evidence nonetheless in addition to an amazing portfolio of notes, letters and photographs. While briefly going through them the German Captain stops short as he sees a man he can recognize well, since he has only met him today, Lieutenant Colonel Evans. In the photograph he is wearing a lot less and wrapping his arms around the blond woman Hans has met today under the name Gabrielle.

Dietrich takes the hairpin and the gun and puts them along all of the papers into his jacket pockets stowing with the passports and the money in his shirt pocket. Then he stares atthe jewelry case and the bottles with a thoughtful expression, wondering how to smuggle them out, before he carefully approaches the window and opens it as quietly as possible. Thomas Anaru stays well-hidden in the dark but shines his light twice in response when his Captain does so. Then, he comes closer at the German officer's bidding, who ties the silken cord used for the bed curtains around the jewelry case and lets it down to the Maori Private. Thomas Anaru pulls the cord lightly for a single time, as soon as he holds the small box in hands. Hans signals him to stay, before drawing up the empty cord and taking the biggest handbag he can find in the cupboard, which he fills with as many of the poison and narcotics bottles as he can. Then he lets it down again to his Private who is more than a bit baffled to receive a woman's handbag, but shows thumbs up, when he has untied it from the cord. At this point Dietrich drops the silken cord and quickly closes the window again, letting his Private retreat to the shadows. The German officer meanwhile listens cautiously at the door, then opens it a bit to glance outside, before he dares to slip onto the hallway.

"Fire!", a panicked shout resounds from the ground floor mere seconds later and Hans immediately has a premonition that Pettigrew is involved somehow. When the first doors are pushed open, he swiftly adapts, calling: "Fire! We need to leave quickly! Take your clothes only and run outside!" Some of the women are a lot calmer than their clients who appear doubly panicked by the fire and the possibility of being recognized in such an environment. Dietrich recognizes indeed two of the higher ranking Allied officers of the first meeting he has been introduced in, which also puts him in the precarious position that they might recognize him. Although a balance of terror is not something he is unfamiliar with, he would rather not find himself at the mercy of any Allied officer and thus leaves quickly under the pretense of fleeing the fire. Tully already awaits him outside the building and quickly grasps the German Captain's shoulder, shouting audibly: "Captain Warren, we need to leave and call help." "Good idea, Sergeant Clarence", Dietrich plays along and swiftly disappears into the shadows of the neighbouring street, where they meet Thomas Anaru again. "Please tell me that you didn't actually set the house on fire, Pettigrew!", Hans demands sternly.

"No worries, Cap. I know what I'm doing. Left a cigarette with some paper snippets in an ashtray hidden behind a sofa. Makes lots of smoke and stink, but doesn't spark or burn anything", Tully assures him, before patting him on the shoulder jovially. "Telling her that you're Captain Warren qualifies you for the prank award for the second time, Cap." "I don't feel sorry about that", Hans remarks dryly, smirking mischievously. "No innocent or undeserving party has come to harm." Thomas tries to catch up with them. "You told them that you're Captain Warren?" "I needed a believable false identity. So I introduced myself as Captain John Warren, Captain Timothy Warren's younger cousin", Dietrich replies with a sly smile. "You're a real fox, Captain", Anaru comments, trying to suppress a loud laugh, as he pats the young officer on the upper arm as well. "We should leave, before they find us. You have the jewelry box and the handbag, Private?", Hans inquires sternly. "Right here with me, Captain", the Maori replies diligently. "We're stealing jewelry boxes and handbags now, Cap?", Tully asks curiously, sounding actually proud of his commander. "Only when they're locked and might contain secret information of German intelligence agents or hold their assembled collection of poisons", Hans answers dryly. "I gotta remember that next time the Sheriff asks me", Tully counters with a smirk. "We're a good team for these criminal jobs." "Moffit already called me 'Räuberhauptmann' today", Dietrich comments dryly. "I hadn't realized how correct he was."

The German Captain again leads them through the dark streets of Tobruk with speed and precision. "Pretty amazing to have a city map in your head, Cap. I could only ever do that with the forests and swamps where we ran our moonshine after months", Tully tells the German, sounding actually impressed. "I grew up in a big city and with memorizing maps. My father let me learn the map of my home province Schleswig-Holstein when I was six", Dietrich confides. "It's a very useful skill, Captain", Thomas Anaru tells him as well. "With our field and the forest around I could easily do that, but not with a foreign city." "You seem to forget that I grew up navigating the desert but also Arabic cities as a teenager. They are not as foreign for me as they are for you", Dietrich counters calmly, as he leads them back onto the road leading to the fort.

The guards have their weapons ready and ask diligently about their intentions, when Captain Boggs and Sergeant Troy come running over from the courtyard which is already crowded. "A quiet dinner, Dietrich? Can't I let you out of my sight for a single evening without you stinging the hornet's nest?", James Boggs inquires with some desperation in his tone. "Have you found something useful in the Desert's Breath?", Troy interrupts him impolitely. "I'm terribly sorry, Captain Boggs, for causing you trouble by doing my job diligently", Hans replies with as little sarcasm as he can muster. "We found Gabrielle's jewelry box which might contain something else than jewelry, and I brought her collection of poisons and narcotics, her forged documents and more letters and notes. At least half a dozen further names and addresses to check out tonight."

"This is a massive scale operation you're calling on short notice, Captain Dietrich!", Major Fisher declares with a scowl, as he approaches the group, catching up on the last part. "Forgive me, Major, for not warning you in time. I had not foreseen being attacked by Abwehr tonight and having one of my men abducted", Dietrich counters with slight sarcasm. "Your Sergeants reported that. Sergeant Moffit also said that you have a plan for arresting German collaborators all over the city", the Major states with a scowl upon the younger man's tone, noticing his bandages as well. "You've been injured?" "Not badly. I'm able to continue with my duty", Hans replies automatically. "You're not even on duty because of your precarious state of health, Captain. Yet you go breaking into houses and uncovering German intelligence networks", the American Majors scolds him. "Tell me, when I'm not supposed to fight back as efficiently as possible against our common enemies the next time!", the German Captain declares with wounded pride and Boggs places his hand on his shoulder, speaking calmly to the angered young man. "Calm, Dietrich! You're undoubtedly good at your job, almost too good for your own good."

The British General Simms and his American colleague Atkins also approach them now, accompanied by the Scottish spymaster McLean. "You have the locations of a dozen Abwehr informants and collaborators?", Simms asks sternly. "Yes. I gave Sergeant Moffit the first documents proving that and have brought several more here with me", Dietrich replies diligently, standing at attention. "Well done, Sherlock", Merlin comments. "You worthless bastard set us up and now the Jerries have Hitch and do God knows what with him", Sam Troy snarls lividly, as he approaches the tall Scotsman in a clearly menacing manner. "Sergeant Troy", Hans snaps, and glares at the American. "Accusing Lieutenant Colonel McLean of using us as bait won't help anybody." "This is correct, Captain", the Scotsman adds sternly. "I must apologize though for having used you for trying to draw the agents I suspected to operate there out of hiding. I never expected anything like this though." Dietrich glares at him and with a contemptuous tone replies: "If my father wouldn't have taught me how an officer and gentleman is supposed to behave, I would strike you now, Merlin. Don't you ever risk my men's life again without even giving us a fair warning ahead!"

"He might not strike you, but I surely will, if Hitch doesn't make it back in one piece", Sam Troy growls with the menacing tone of an angered attack dog. "Like master like men", Atkins assesses, observing the duo. "You're the perfect choice of commander for this unruly motley crew. You and your Rats are a lot more competent and resilient than any of you would appear at first sight. So specify your plan please, Captain Dietrich!" "We have the addresses and names of a dozen collaborators with the Germans here in the city. If we are able to perform joint arrests at various locations almost simultaneously, we can not only strike a hard blow against Abwehr, but also become rid of a hidden danger in our midst. Once we know that most of the arrests have been successful, we contact German intelligence and ask for a prisoner exchange, one of those we arrest against Hitchcock. In this way we also learn who is the most important for them and we might be able to backtrace them and find their headquarters in the city. Hitchcock might be able to provide valuable information as well, once freed", Dietrich presents his intended plan. "That's reasonable. Richard, we can cover eight locations easily. The rest you would have to cover with your men."

"My unit and I volunteer to cover at least one of the locations, General Atkins", Dietrich offers right away without a moment of hesitation and Troy smiles at him proudly. "Lieutenant Griffith, Lieutenant Carter and Lieutenant Carlos will also cover one location each", James Boggs offers similarly. "I will cover the remaining two or three with my men", Major Fisher adds. "Excellent, gentlemen. Captain Dietrich, you provide the instructions regarding the locations to Major Fisher and Captain Boggs. Lawrence, you send your men to the locations Sergeant Moffit has provided you with", General Atkins orders, before turning to his British colleague. "They are already briefed by the Sergeant as we speak", General Simms agrees. "I assume that you will require Moffit for your coordination, General Simms", Dietrich remarks. "That is correct", the British officer confirms. Nodding in acknowledgement, Dietrich tells Boggs and Fisher: "Summon your units' coordinators! We're down by three men, leaving me with six including myself. Thus, we can only cover a single location." "You're doing more than enough, Dietrich, for a man who is not even on duty", Fisher assures him, while Boggs sends out men to summon the required Lieutenants. "When this is over I want you checked in the hospital, Captain." "I'm fine", Hans protests on principle. "I've seen you without this shirt and jacket today. You're lucky that you're still walking around and the medics didn't tie you to a bed after this fight against Captain Warren, but they might consider this after what you did tonight", Fisher admonishes him sternly. "Boggs, you'd better look after your fox more carefully before he keels over."

The blond American Captain nods wearily, observing his younger German colleague with actual concern. "How badly have you been injured in the events tonight?", he asks the skinny Captain with enough honest empathy that the proud young officer does not fight back, but answers calmly: "I was scratched on the stomach with nails drenched in narcotics and knocked out, when an agent smashed my head against a doorframe." "You have a talent for getting into the strangest kind of fighting situations, Dietrich", Fisher tells him sternly. "That's the curse of the Rat Patrol following me ever since I met them for the first time", Hans Dietrich remarks dryly. "You gotta see the positive aspect, Captain. Nothing blew up around you", Troy tries to remind him for which the German officer glares at him with annoyance. "Pettigrew almost set a building on fire. This has been my normal routine for almost a year now and you wonder why I'm not particularly able to relax, gentlemen", the young Captain counters sarcastically. "You said you wanted me to cause a distraction while you go breaking into the woman's room, Cap", Tully protests. "Breaking into a woman's room?", Major Fisher asks incredulously. "How exactly did you think we retrieved additional evidence against the female German Abwehr agent, who laid her honey trap for whoever would be careless enough to walk into it, except for breaking into her private room?", Hans asks with clear sarcasm dripping from his tone. "I never had any intention to steal anything, only to recover evidence which I did successfully", he adds with an indignant tone, speaking of wounded pride.

The arrival of Lieutenant Griffith, Carter and Carlos along with three of Major Fisher's officers ends the discussion, as all men focus on their goal at hand. "Buenas noches, Captain Dietrich", Carlos greets the German with an openhearted smile. "Good evening gentlemen. I heard that you need us for a special mission." Dietrich smiles at hispanic officer and nods. "Si, Lieutenant Carlos. Buenas noches and good evening, gentlemen. We are all here, because my men and I had an unexpected confrontation with agents of the German intelligence service." Hans subconsciously touches his stomach where a few small blood stains remain on his shirt. "We could secure evidence about several locations where the men of this listlive who are either cooperating with the Germans or possibly just targeted by them. We have their names and addresses here in Tobruk. We need each of you to lead a unit of your men and arrest these persons, as we need them for putting pressure on Abwehr and performing a prisoner exchange to free Private Hitchcock."

Lieutenant Griffith bears a similarly grim expression as Sam Troy, when he growls: "We'll strike against the Jerries fiercely, Captain." Dietrich nods, observing him a bit warily though. On the map, Major Fisher has provided them with Hans points out the seven addresses which they will cover with their units, showing each commander the address he has to check along with its position on the map and then repeating the name of the person they search, adding further information if he knows any or something has been noted by the agent which he is able to discern immediately. As soon as the strategy has been set, they arrange to start the arrests at a fixed time in 30 minutes to give each group enough time to arrive, but not tip the other locations off, if one can give a warning, before the troops arrive. "Your orders are clear, gentlemen. Do your best!", Major Fisher declares and salutes to the officers, which all of them return. While the others turn to leave, Carlos approaches Dietrich and pats him on the shoulder. "I heard that you fought Warren in the courtyard over the treatment he gave some of your soldiers. Muchas gracias, Captain Dietrich. I've liked you since the first time we met, but I hold you in higher esteem than ever before for this. You've earned your status as hero of the common soldiers. Good luck! ¡Mucha suerte! Nos vemos." "Gracias, Lieutenant. Viel Glück!", Hans replies likewise with an honest smile, before turning with Troy back to his men. The O'Donnell brothers have arrived meanwhile after bringing Gottschlich to their room, where the young Corporal feels sick and tries to sleep off his intoxication. With a calm and concentrated manner, Hans Dietrich lays out his plan to his remaining men, Troy, Pettigrew, Anaru and the O'Donnells.

"I hope you're uncomfortable in your position, Mark", Gabrielle purrs into the American Private's ear who shudders as another jolt of electricity zaps through his body. "Go to hell!", Hitch manages to grind out with as much bravado as he can manage in his current situation. The woman slaps him violently. "Tell us what the Allies want with Hauptmann Dietrich and your unit! They provide you with special training... for which purpose?" Hitchcock glares at her silently. How he could ever be so infatuated with this woman to be willing to leave his fiancé, pregnant with his child, for her appears absurd to him now. Dietrich has been right with his moral sermon and standing up not only for his principles and for Lisa's defence, but basically also for him, as Mark realizes now.

The excruciating pain of the electric currents leaves him gasping for breath. However he would not even have been able to answer if he would have wanted to, as his thoughts have been focused on something else than her stream of questions. "Hauptmann Dietrich is an intelligent man. Your Sergeant Troy is a reckless Yankee. Both wouldn't have accepted your capture. Or that's what you believe. So where are they now, your saviours and heroes? The truth is that nobody is going to come for you, because nobody can find our location. So do yourself a favor, Mark, my dear, and make this easier on you! Tell me what I want to know and our relationship can be a lot more friendly again." Hitch shudders at her icy sadistic tone, laced with the seductive undertone which has lured him in and cost him his sanity in the previous night.

A tall dark-haired man in his early thirties enters and all the Germans present greet him with the Hitlergruß, "Heil Hitler!" Coldly he assesses the blond American for a few seconds, before inquiring in German: "Haben Sie Fortschritte mit seinem Verhör erzielt, Oberleutnant?" The blond woman appears suddenly very subservient and obedient, as she replies: "Noch nicht, Herr Hauptmann. Aber er ist ein feiger Schwächling, der mehr mit seinem Geschlecht als seinem Gehirn denkt. Er wird schon einknicken, wenn er die Hoffnung auf Rettung aufgegeben hat." Hitch listens intently, when the man inquires about his interrogation. Although he cannot understand the details of her answer, he recognizes his torturer's confidence to break him. The German officer steps close to Mark, grabbing his chin suddenly to the young American's surprise, while lifting his head painfully. "Eine stinkende Ratte, dreckig und armselig. You are a stinking, pitiful rat", he tells the prisoner with cold derision and a notable German accent. Angry at the treatment, Hitch spits in his face and promptly gets backhanded. "Dass ein deutscher Offizier so tief sinken kann, sich mit solchem Abschaum abzugeben", the German Captain assesses derisively.

"Hauptmann Dietrich steht in einem ganz klar freundschaftlichen Verhältnis mit den Feldwebeln seiner Einheit. Dieser Ami hier bewundert ihn, nachdem der Hauptmann ihm zweimal das Leben gerettet hat. Das ist kein Resultat von wenigen Wochen Kollaboration eines Überläufers. Dietrich hatte seit einem Jahr immer wieder mit den Ratten zu tun und hat sie unterstützt. Als die SS ihn erwischt hat, haben sie ihren Agenten befreit und nun arbeitet er offen mit ihnen", Gabrielle explains her perspective which Hitch catches only partially. However he realizes that she thinks that Captain Dietrich must have collaborated with them for much longer than a few weeks before his rescue from the SS due to their close relationship with their CO and his friendship with the Sergeants. "Ich will wissen, was die Alliierten mit Dietrich als Hauptmann einer Spezialeinheit wollen. Der Mann ist intelligent, verschlagen und äußerst talentiert für den Agentenberuf. Wir haben verabsäumt, ihn selbst anzuwerben und auszubilden, aber werden ihn als unseren Feind nicht einfach tolerieren", the German Captain demands. "Ich erwarte Ihre Ergebnisse, Oberleutnant. Major Ingelheimer will Resultate hören." Hitch is not sure what exactly he wants, but it has to do with Captain Dietrich and his unit. And the name Ingelheimer also rings a bell, although he cannot place him right away. Maybe that is another Jerry officer they haveonce shot at and who is out for revenge now. That would not be the first time.

"Let's do this in a civilised manner, Mark", Gabrielle purrs with false sweetness, as she turns back to her bound victim. "Tell me what the Allies want to train your Captain and your unit for!" Her finger caresses his chin which feels bruised from her colleague's brutal grip. But Mark will be damned, before he is going to give them anything. "Mark Hitchcock, Private", he replies with an insolent grin, before reciting his army serial number. Instead of an answer, she digs her long nails into his cheek, scratching him painfully, as tears stream from his eyes unbidden and he cries out in pain.

The Rats take positions according to their previously organised plan. The O'Donnells cover the rear, while Tully Pettigrew serves as their sniper. Thomas Anaru stays well-hidden in the dark to observe and provide assistance, while Sam Troy and Hans Dietrich approach the main entrance of the address they are supposed to check. The German Captain knocks on the door, while both he and his Sergeant have their guns drawn and ready. "*Open the door!*", Hans calls in harsh Arabic. When a young man in his teenage years opens the door, he demands: "*Salam aleikum. We need to speak with Hassan ibn Maged.*" The young man pales visibly when he recognizes the soldiers' uniforms. As he reaches for his dagger at the belt, both Dietrich and Troy simultaneously point their guns at his head. "*Drop the dagger!*", the German officer demands harshly. The American Sergeant is less restrained and grabs the young Arab's wrist, forcing him to drop his dagger with a yelp of pain. "*Where is Hassan?*", Dietrich repeats harshly, threatening the teenager with his own gun, while Troy quickly kicks away the dagger onto the street outside. "*Leave my son in peace!*", the hoarse voice of an older Arab demands, as a muscular Bedouin steps into view. "*We want no contact with the infidels. Why are you here?", he growls menacingly. "*You are in contact with the Germans or Italians who controlled this city before the British army*", Hans informs him coolly. "*We will arrest you and question you. If you are found innocent, you will return.*" "*Leave my family in peace!*", the Arab demands, when he sees Troy still pointing his gun at his son, while the lean German Captain directs his weapon at the father. "*We will, once you cooperate. Hand over your weapons and provide no resistance*", Dietrich states grimly.

The proud Arab looks briefly torn between his sense of dignity and his wish to protect his family, but finally he draws his dagger slowly and deliberately, handing it, hilt first, to the European officer. "*Let my son not see me in chains!*", he demands of the German Captain. Hans nods quietly and gives a signal to Troy. "Leave the boy, Troy! His father will come with us of his own accord.*" "*Stay here! Look after your mother and siblings, Kharim!*", Hassan orders his son who looks incredulous, but bows to his father. "*Please come with us, Hassan ibn Maged*", Dietrich speaks politely, but resolutely. Without any further resistance the Arab follows him with his head proudly held high. When the American Sergeant wants to grip his prisoner's arm, the German Captain snaps: "Troy, no. We respect his dignity and he cooperates."

As their backup joins them quickly, the Arab looks a bit more unsure now. Thomas Anaru has picked up the dagger Troy has kicked onto the street and shows it to Dietrich. "I took this, Captain." "Keep it for now, Private. We might give it back, if the man is released. But this will be for our superiors to decide", Hans explains before turning to their captive. "*Why do you cooperate with the German troops? I thought that the Italians and Germans were considered your suppressors here in Lybia*", Dietrich asks him, as he signals the Arab to come along. "*We lived here well for many years with the Italians. Then the other soldiers came and took our city for themselves. Afterwards they confiscated and stole our food, while they dug holes out in the dunes and swamps to hide from the Germans and Italians. They call them rats and that's what I consider them as well. When the Germans came, they offered rewards for telling them who still was loyal to the others. So I told them about a neighbour of mine and got a reward. I also get other rewards whenever I tell them about some enemy. They provided for my wife and children, while the others stole our food. That's why I support them*", the Arab explains proudly. "*Do you know that they torture anybody you accuse?*", Dietrich asks coolly. "*They are soldiers. What else would they do with their enemies?*", Hassan counters. "*I don't care about enemies, but I care about my family.*"

"*The Germans and Italians were driven far back from here. They will not continue to support you. Do you care about changing your allegiance to continue providing for your family?*", Hans inquires cautiously. "*I am not a traitor*", the Arab counters proudly. "*You are not a German, but I am*", the young Captain states resolutely, which catches the man by surprise. "*Why do you take me away then? You have no German uniform.*" "*I changed my allegiance, because certain groups among the Germans are dangerous and fanatic. They will betray, torture and kill you and your family without hesitation, should it fall into their fanatic beliefs*" "*They have no reason for that. I am their ally*", Hassan argues, in spite of not being absolutely sure. "*They did this to me and my family, although I am of their blood and their own people. I was even one of their officers. They will care even less about you or your wife or young children*", the lean officer argues, trying to convince him. The Bedouin studies the skinny bruised European thoughtfully. "*What do you want from me? And what will you offer me?*" "*I can offer you fair rewards for reliable information on our enemies, as well as protecting you and your family, should the Germans try to harm you. I want to know everything you know about the German and Italian agents remaining in town*", the German Captain replies. "*Would you protect my children and my wife, even if I get killed?*", Hassan asks. "*I swear to you on my honor as an officer that I will not let children come to harm, when I can help them*", Dietrich vows earnestly and the Arab actually starts to consider the offer.

"Where's Moffit when I need him?", Troy grumbles his complaints to Tully and the O'Donnells. "Hanging out with the Englishmen rather than with us", Kevin replies with a grin. "Captain Dietrich seems to have him under control though", Daniel remarks. "Of course he has. But I wanna know what he's talking about with that Arab", Sam growls. "Just wait a little and Captain Dietrich will translate for you", Kevin tells him. "Waiting isn't something I like to do", Troy admits with a frown. "I understand you", the young Australian agrees. "I don't like waiting either." "Our Pa always used to tell him that patience is a virtue", Danny tells the others. "I still hate that proverb", Kevin laments. "So do I. Jack annoys me constantly with this. Next time you're my backup, Kevin, since my two treacherous friends stand together on this attitude", Sam grumbles, smirking while he glances at Dietrich who still speaks with the Arab in the harsh tongue of the Bedouins.

After minutes of negotiations, the German Captain and their Arab prisoner reach an agreement and shake hands, each grasping the other's right forearm. Hans nods to his cooperative prisoner or possible new informant in acknowledgement, before turning to his Sergeant. "Hassan here is willing to cooperate with the Allies instead of the Germans in exchange for us protecting his family", he tells Troy with a serious expression. "Of course, you convinced him", Sam comments with a grin. "I learned my lesson not to antagonize the locals the hard way", the German Captain declares with a weary sigh. "You're learning pretty well", Troy agrees with a grin. "I have a good teacher", Hans counters dryly. "You're my best student", the American Sergeant adds with amusement. "It actually has served me well", Dietrich admits with another weary sigh. "You're a good guy, Captain", Sam declares, patting the younger officer on his left shoulder. "So what do we do with him?" "We bring Hassan here back to our fort and tell them about the mutually beneficial arrangement, while we wait for what the others have managed", the skinny German tells him. "Then, we try contacting Abwehr on a German frequency and offer negotiations and a prisoner exchange."

Only a few other units have been faster with retrieving their targets than the Rats. Still the fort is experiencing the stress of the situation, when some soldiers prepare for a potential deployment, while others escort prisoners away. James Boggs has awaited them eagerly and by now Jakob Silberblatt has joined him as well. "Hans, wat maakst du för Sacken!", he scolds his friend, while pulling him into an embrace. Then, he takes a closer look at his bruised face and the bandage around his head. "I'm sorry for causing you worry, Jakob. I assure you being attacked by Abwehr agents has not been my intention", the young German replies dryly. Then, he turns to James Boggs and points at his prisoner. "This is Hassan ibn Maged. He was an informant for the Germans, but he might be willing to work for us instead in exchange for us protecting his family and paying him as the Axis agents have done. I suggest that you use an interpreter for arranging things, but consider this offer and do not antagonize him." Handing over the dagger he still has carried in his hand, he adds: "This is his dagger which he handed over, when surrendering peacefully. Private Anaru has his son's dagger. I suggest giving both weapons back to him, should you come to an arrangement, since they are also signs of a man's honor." Boggs takes the weapons from Dietrich and Anaru, nodding in response. "I will heed your advice, Dietrich. We will treat him fairly as long as he cooperates." While Boggs calls a guard to escort the Arab, Dietrich translates for the man that he will be questioned by those higher up in the hierarchy who can actually make a decision, while he has presented his proposal. Hassan bows his head slightly, before assuring the German Captain to cooperate, if his conditions are met.

"Four target persons have already been arrested. This is the largest operation we have been able to strike against Axis agents and informants so far", Boggs tells Dietrich, sounding quite proud of his second in command. "Do you have an overview yet who has been arrested?", the young German officer inquires. "Let's join the Generals for this. Major Fisher is coordinating the arrests", James Boggs tells the younger Captain. "They wanted to have me as their advisor, but you're far more knowledgeable, Hans, and you speak Arabic as well as German and Italian", Silberblatt adds, as he falls into step alongside his friend. "We prepare for that exchange with Hitch", Troy tells Dietrich with a grim expression. "I don't know whether we will be the ones performing the exchange, but readying two or three vehicles is a good idea, Sergeant. You're in charge of the men, while I speak with our superiors. Be ready to move out, should the order come", Dietrich tells him sternly, providing a proper salute, when he hands over command. "You can count on us", Sam assures him, saluting back sloppily out of respect for the German officer, as he would have dropped the gesture completely otherwise.

General Simms and Atkins look up from their area map, when the three officers knock on the door and enter at their command. "The first men have been arrested, Sir. Should we try to contact the Germans, while we still have the element of surprise?", Dietrich inquires after saluting sharply. "Yes, we will. But I want Lieutenant Silberblatt as a neutral negotiator, Captain", Atkins replies sternly. "Certain officers of Abwehr have a personal feud with you." "I insist that negotiating Private Hitchcock's release or exchange for another prisoner is a top priority", the German Captain states clearly. "It was hard enough to convince Sergeant Troy and the unruly commandos not to storm off on their own, capture the first man they could get and negotiate this on their terms without ever informing you beforehand. Don't disappoint those men's trust by declaring Hitchcock an irrelevant pawn not worth negotiating over! He himself might not be, but the loyalty of whole units of scouts and commandos to still inform you about their plans is something of greater strategic relevance." "Are you trying to blackmail us?", Simms growls at the younger officer who proudly stands his ground. "I'm trying to remind you of the reality of the manner in which these units operate which I have learned myself only in the past few weeks when literally sleeping in the same tent with them and sharing their lives. Most of the time you receive nothing but a shortened report once everything is over. How you handle this matter will be decisive to show more units than just the Rat Patrol that they can trust in your support for their men", Dietrich argues with a serious tone.

"Who do you think youare?", the British General growls angrily. "Captain Dietrich is the officer who actually seems to understand these commandos best, as he has turned within mere weeks from their hated enemy into their most trusted officer. And this apparently applies to far more men than the Rat Patrol and also more armies than just the American one", Atkins intercedes sternly on his surprised young Captain's behalf. "I learned to trust in his recommendations. I would recommend you to do the same, Lawrence." Seeing the puzzled expressions of the three officers, he adds sternly: "Don't look so surprised, gentlemen! We have all been present during the past few weeks. I have hired you, Captain Dietrich, in spite of your reputation, because I believed in your potential. You have neither failed nor disappointed me so far." Simms observes Dietrich cautiously, before nodding. "Fine, Richard. We will negotiate about his man. I saw the commandos cheer for this fellow with my own eyes after he had knocked out his fellow Captain in this scandalous duel in a manner of Roman gladiators. You're beginning to build the reputation of the hero of the common soldier, Dietrich. A strange reputation for a defected German Captain, but better than being called the kraut traitor as that man did, I believe to have heard." Dietrich has tensed visibly and narrowed his eyes, but nods curtly. "I suppose so, General Simms." The lean British officer considers his reaction, before adding: "Miss Lincoln is quite content with your wards. However, Miles mentioned something earlier about you and birds, but I couldn't quite understand him." "Private Anaru had asked me to buy some songbirds from the bazaar to set them free. The children joined us in feeding them some bread crumbs, before releasing them", Hans explains and notices that the British officer's expression has turned almost warm at the explanation, while Jakob tries hard to hold back his tears.

"Lieutenant Silberblatt, Captain Boggs. You will try calling the German agents on a German frequency. Offer them negotiations and a prisoner exchange!", General Atkins orders. "Captain Dietrich. I want you to stay here. Go through the lists of prisoners and the confiscated documents thoroughly. I want your input once we have secured all targets who you consider agents, informants or possible allies for us." The German Captain salutes diligently. "General. I can report a partial success already. One Arab informant would be willing to change into becoming our informant. All he wants is fair payment and protection for his family", Hans reports diligently. Atkins smiles, twirling his moustache, while his colleague General Simms appears surprised. "You turned one of their informants? How?" "I spoke with the man I arrested along with my men and learned his motivation for working with the Germans and disliking the Allies. If treated respectfully and supporting his family, we can gain an ally here. Otherwise you would have to arrest him along with his oldest son who would surely pledge revenge for his father", the young Captain advises. "Now you see why having an officer who speaks five languages is a feat, Lawrence", Atkins tells his British colleague. "You've acted quite boldly, Captain, to start such negotiations", Simms assesses sternly. "I've learned that this is often necessary, especially in a war zone which is as quickly changing as the North African desert", Dietrich replies dryly. Simms smiles wryly. "You're brave and adaptable which makes you fit well with the commandos, Captain Dietrich. The enlisted men admire you for a good reason." "He's still our fox, not Britain's", Atkins intercedes, smiling slyly. "He fits with the Yankees given what I've seen today", Simms assesses with a mischievous smile. Dietrich looks actually offended, as he tries to not glare at the Biritish General whose cooperation he needs. "Bold, unruly and uncompromising when it comes to defending principles of honor and freedom. I'd say he fits perfectly with us", Atkins replies, patting the incredulous young officer on the shoulder who winces with pain and surprise.

Sergeant Moffit and a British Lieutenant who come to report on the British units' behalf interrupt the interaction. "We managed to arrest all the men on our list. Only one unit faced armed resistance, resulting in two men being injured. Everything else went smoothly", the Lieutenant reports. "Captain Dietrich here has managed to convince one Arabic informant to consider changing allegiance. I want you, Sergeant Moffit, to help with the interrogations and see if someone else can be turned", General Simms orders. "The Captain is a masterful negotiator, General, but I will try my best", Moffit replies modestly. "Sergeant Moffit is absolutely competent and reliable" Hans returns the compliment. "I suppose the Captain is needed in parallel for conducting interrogations", Jack states cautiously. "We need him for quickly checking the background information. Not all interrogations can be done in time and we need to learn who is relevant for which reason", the American General states, twirling his moustache.

"So much for taking me off duty", Hans mutters sarcastically to the British Sergeant. "You're actually irreplaceable for certain tasks, especially when we are under time pressure and have few others with your expertise", Atkins intercedes sternly. "This doesn't mean that I have no intention of allowing you your deserved and needed rest, Captain." "I had no intention of accusing you, General", the young officer quickly amends. "You're right that we should not even order you to do any of this. But to be honest, Captain Dietrich, I know you well enough by now to be sure that you would not idly stand by in this situation", the American General assesses, whirl twirling his moustache with a sly smirk. Dietrich bears an offended expression, as he counters with wounded pride: "Of course I wouldn't stand to the side and watch my man being tortured and killed by Abwehr. Or allow this situation to escalate by not helping to gain the advantage of information we have here." "Good. Get to your work then, Captain!", Atkins tells him sternly to which the skinny German replies automatically with a sharp salute. "Sergeant Moffit, you support the interrogations whereever your language skills are required. You can start with this Arab Captain Dietrich appears to have convinced to join us", General Simms orders, while his colleague shows the Captain where he can work for now. Moffit also salutes diligently, before following the British Lieutenant outside.

Only five minutes later, the first interruption occurs, as Captain Boggs returns to report: "Lieutenant Silberblatt was able to reach the German secret service. They will discuss the proposal of a prisoner exchange with their superior after verifying our information. They asked about Captain Dietrich explicitly, but we blocked their inquiries." Hans looks up from his notes now and asks: "Who asked about me?" "Their Captain as far as I understood the title", James Boggs answers. "He wanted to know whether you were the one responsible for bringing the information to us." "Did he introduce himself?", the young German Captain wants to know. "Not by name, only as the responsible Hauptmann", his American colleague replies. Dietrich frowns. "A Captain appears a bit low level to be responsible of the whole secret service operation in Tobruk and its surroundings. I would have expected somebody at least of the rank of a Major", Dietrich starts out and stops mid sentence. "Major Ingelheimer. He is responsible for the whole area, although he might not be directly at the location here in Tobruk", he mutters half to himself, thinking out loud. "This is one of his units we have come across."

"Ingelheimer, the Abwehr officer who ordered the attack against our camp a few days ago?", Atkins asks with a stern expression. "Yes, General. He must be responsible for agents in the area to send one into our camp to leave a message. Since this exchange with the German secret service was initiated by Merlin rather than Ingelheimer, we cannot know whether he knew about our business here. But the woman has targeted Hitchcock on the previous night already, so I would suspect that this has been the start of Abwehr's move against us. Through our actions today we triggered them and forced events into motion which might have taken longer and allowed them better preparations otherwise", Dietrich argues. "So you think it was for the best that things escalated today?", Atkins wants to know. "With at least a week of time with his new girl friend, Private Hitchcock might have unintentionally revealed more than he ever would during hours of interrogation which I can assure you of after interrogating the man myself more than once. As it is, he didn't have the time to reveal much", Hans counters. "However, he might not have been the only target, as in the illustrous establishment where the female agent went after her cover job as a courtesan, I encountered more than one of the officers of this base. Major Evans even is on a photograph with the agent in a rather delicate pose. He might have been seduced or blackmailed with this", the young German Captain points out, searching through the papers and notes to retrieve the photograph and show it to the Generals and Boggs.

"Arrest Major Evans immediately on my orders!", General Simms commands one of the men standing guard, as soon as he has set eyes on the incriminating photography. "I commend you Captain for your unorthodox methods of retrieving evidence. This is essential information indeed which you have uncovered. Who else did you recognize?" "I don't know the names of all high ranking British or ANZAC officers, as not everybody was introduced to me. Since I was not an agent of Abwehr previously, I am not familiar with all the faces from reports to recognize everyone", Dietrich answers with earnestness and caution. "We will right this mistake as soon as possible, Captain", Simms assures him. "Provide a description please!" Once Hans has diligently done so, as far as he can tell from the chaos of the evacuation of the brothel, the older British officer nods. "The bald one sounds like Lieutenant Colonel Murdoc to me, wouldn't you agree, Richard?" Atkins twirls his moustache, smiling his sly smile Dietrich and Boggs recognize by now. "That sounds quite like him", the American General agrees. "I would say we bring him here for questioning, if we can find him in the base. The same applies to the Major, I suppose. The third one you would have to identify from meeting the man or looking at photographs, Captain."

Dietrich nods in agreement, before explaining: "It was not my ntention to get the men arrested for the sole crime of visiting a brotel where a German secret service agent has worked as well." "We're rather safe than sorry", General Simms states sternly, while Atkins adds: "Your talent as an investigator is invaluable. If you wouldn't get along so well with the commandos I might actually consider employing you for counterintelligence as Major Turner has frequently suggested, Captain Dietrich. You're a natural for this line of work which is hard to train." "The manner I have employed for investigation is more fitting for a commando than an intelligence officer though, Sir", the young man argues, looking only a bit chagrined at the thought of bluffing his way in under a false name and breaking into somebody's room. "Merlin chose his collaborator excellently. And he is right that he hardly needs to to train you and your men, rather improve your existing skills", Atkins assesses. "Continue gathering as much information as you can. I want you present at the next radio call from Abwehr, Captain."

During the half hour waiting for this call, Hans works diligently on the documents and notes left by the agent. General Simms providing him with a list of the names of the high ranking officers who currently are stationed at Tobruk or have been in the past two and a half years, since capturing the fort from the Italians helps to identify several targets of the agent only noted through their initials and he also manages to recognize a Lieutenant Colonel of the Australian troops as the second man he has seen in the brothel toda. Both Simms and Atkins are shocked when through the list and photographs they can identify three more of their fellow officers targeted by the agent. "This was a honey trap of the most devious kind", Atkins assesses, looking incredulous. "You have really stung into a hornet's nest and made the most of it, Captain Dietrich."

"Sir, the Captain from Abwehr is calling. He wants to speak to Captain Dietrich", Lieutenant Williams reports, his eyes flickering briefly to the young German officer, before wandering to his commanding officer James Boggs and finally resting on the two Generals. The two Captains also look at Atkins and Simms expectantly now, both bearing grim expressions. "Accompany the Lieutenant and speak on the radio, but under no circumstances do we agree to exchange you for anybody", the American General tells them, twirling his moustache with a determined expression. "What do they want with you?", General Simms inquires. "MajorIngelheimer from Abwehr has started targeting me a few days ago, sending an envoy into our camp to provide us with a clear warning", Dietrich replies with a frown. "He threatened me personally with torture and an execution for the treason I have committed." "I see. Then, I agree with my American colleague here that we won't exchange you under any circumstances. You will not be treated as a POW, but a traitor and defector", Simms assesses and he looks actually worried. "They're waiting, Sir", Lieutenant Williams reminds them. "You have your orders. Go!", Atkins barks curtly after which both Boggs and Dietrich follow Williams along.

"Are you alright, Sir?", the American officer asks the German Captain, once they swiftly walk through the hallways. "Why shouldn't I be?", Hans counters wearily. "The bandage around your head. You didn't have it in the showers when I met you before dinner", Williams replies curtly. "I'm physically as well as could be under the circumstances. My injuries won't affect my abilitiy to perform my necessary duty", the proud young Captain answers curtly. "Don't be absurd, Dietrich!", Boggs intercedes. "You have been taken off duty because of your severe injuries and your grave underweight. I don't doubt that you are doing your best, but you're still not fit for duty. I wouldn't dream about sending you into a fight and I don't understand what Lieutenant Colonel McLean was thinking when sending you of all people into the lion's den without even giving you a warning." "It's hard to tell which schemes he is following at which times", Dietrich agrees grimly. "That this might cost me one of my men however is not something I take easily." Both officers notice the dangerous edge in his tone and the angry gleem in his eyes. The man who has been willing to fight in the courtyard against a fellow officer over the treatment of his soldiers is surely not taking it lightly, when those soldiers are put at risk unnecessarily or sacrificed for some spy scheme. "We'll do what we can to get Private Hitchcock back. He's both our man after all", James Boggs tells the younger officer who looks briefly surprised, before nodding and muttering: "Thank you, Boggs."

When they arrive at the radio office, a nervous Lieutenant Silberblatt awaits them. "Finally", the curly-haired officer sighs with relief. "Herr Hauptmann. Können Sie mich hören?", he asks into the headphone. After waiting for a few seconds he continues: "Wir haben nun Hauptmann Dietrich hier für Sie." Again he waits after announcing Dietrich's presence. Then he hands his friend the headphones and whispers: "Viel Glück, Hans!" "Danke, Jakob", Dietrich replies, as he takes the microphone and puts on the headphones. "Hier spricht Hauptmann Dietrich." The other end remains quiet for a few seconds, before a man's harsh voice addresses him: "Sie sind also wieder wohlauf und haben mit unvorhergesehener Effizienz ihre Ziele umgesetzt. Die deutsche Gründlichkeit kann man Ihnen nicht absprechen, Dietrich. Sie arbeiten lediglich für die falsche Seite." Dietrich grits his teeth at the insolent accusation that he applies his German diligence for the wrong side, since he has acted with unexpected efficiency. "Wer sind Sie und was wollen Sie von mir?", he growls into the microphone. "Man stellt sich nicht mit echtem Namen vor in unserem Berufsfeld", the German officer sneers arrogantly that one does not use their real name in their line of work. "Sie können mich Hauptmann Schinderhannes nennen." The codename is less obvious than Merlin's, but Hans recognizes the name of the infamous robbers' Captain from his youth, when their teacher for German literature has wanted his students to read about the historical figure in the newly written and acted drama by Carl Zuckmayer. Along with Jakob, the literature fan, Hans has even gone to watch the silent movie based on Zuckmayer's drama. Ironically, the author has been a critic of the Nazis just like their teacher.

"Sehr kreativ. Sind Sie ein Anhänger von Räubern und Mördern oder Autoren, die die Nazis kritisieren?", Dietrich comments dryly. Silberblatt stares at his friend incredulously, before translating for Captain Boggs and Lieutenant Williams: "He asked whether he is a supporter of robbers and murderers or authors criticizing the Nazis." Bogggs sighs and looks at his second in command with worry. That the proud young German already starts crossing blades with the secret service man in the first statement is not a good start for a conversation which should end without violence in a prisoner's exchange. "Ich bin ein Anhänger eines Helden, der den Saujuden ihren Platz gezeigt hat", the Abwehr Hauptmann snarls indignantly that he is a supporter of a hero who has shown Jews their rightful place. "Aber ich dachte mir, dass ein gebildeter Mann wie Sie die Anspielung versteht. Die Amis haben uns einen der neuen Gefangenen im Austausch für Ihren Mann Hitchcock angeboten", he returns to the business of the prisoner exchange. "Wir sind bereit, dieses Angebot anzunehmen." When he announces that they are willing to accept the offer of exchanging Hitchcock against another prisoner, Hans inquires immediately: "Ist er am Leben und unversehrt?"

"Am Leben ist er und nicht in akuter Gefahr zu sterben, außer er verbleibt unser Gast", the German Hauptmann replies coldly that Hitchcock is alive and will remain so unless he stays with them longer. "Wen wollen Sie im Austausch für Hitchcock?", Dietrich asks and promptly gets asked in return. "Sie haben Rodolfo Firanelli in Ihrem Gewahrsam?" "Did we arrest Rodolfo Firanelli?", the German Captain inquires from his older colleague James Boggs. "As far as I know we do. He is listed among the men General Simms' troops arrested", the American officer replies. "Abwehr wants him. I know that he was an informant for the Germans", the younger German replies. "They will exchange Hitchcock against him." "We agree. We have to", James Boggs answers grimly. "We still have a dozen more people who we arrested." "He appears to be the most interesting though", Hans argues a bit despondently. "That can't be helped", his commanding officer counters. "You have my permission to agree to the exchange."

"Wir sind einverstanden mit dem Austausch von Private Mark Hitchcock gegen Rodolfo Firanelli", Dietrich speaks into the microphone. "Wann und wo wollen Sie den Austausch durchführen?" "Ich schlage vor, wir treffen beim Hafenviertel zusammen. Das ist weit genug von Ihrer Basis entfernt, um keine Gefahr für uns darzustellen. Kennen Sie das zerstörte Lagerhaus der deutschen Marine nahe den Docks?", the German Hauptmann replies in a professional tone. Hans Dietrich considers his knowledge about Tobruk's harbor and docks which is rather limited. However, he knows where the German navy has formerly had their warehouse, before it has been destroyed, when the Allies have taken the city. "Der Ort ist mir bekannt. Wir kommen unter weißer Fahne, geschützt durch den Nichtangriffspakt. Damit es nicht eskaliert, schlage ich vor, dass nicht mehr als zwei Wagen von Ihnen und uns kommen", the young Captain demands that they meet there under the protection of the white flag to not attack each other with no more than two vehicles from each side to avoid escalation. "Einverstanden, Dietrich. Wir treffen uns in einer halben Stunde. Kommen Sie selbst, um Ihren Mann zu holen! Dann können wir uns persönlich sehen", the German officer agrees to the conditions. "Bis in einer halben Stunde, Schinderhannes!", Hans growls, before he hears the other terminating the connection.

"What did you arrange?", James Boggs inquires. "That I will meet him in person in half an hour to exchange the prisoners. The meeting point is the former supply depot of the German navy", Dietrich replies grimly. "I can't risk your life, Dietrich", his older colleague exclaims immediately. "They won't kill me. I insisted on a truce and exchanging the men under the protection of the white flag", the younger German counters. "But I want to see the man's face. I doubt that I will recognize him though, as he would not show himself otherwise. But Hitchcock or I might recognize him from a photograph, if Merlin has some of the agents he knows." Boggs looks still worried, but finally agrees. "What was the comment about, when you asked him whether he is a fan of robbers and murderers or of authors criticizing the Nazis?", Silberblatt asks his friend with curiosity. "He told me that he calls himself Hauptmann Schinderhannes", Hans replies and immediately sees the recognition sparking in his Jewish friend's eyes. "I suppose he is not a fan of Zuckmayer's works", Jakob comments dryly. "No. He argued that he likes the robber because of mainly focusing on robbing, blackmailing and murdering Jews, showing them their place, as he called it", Dietrich replies grimly. "Dreckskerl", his Jewish friend curses. "That's exactly what I thought. That's why I want to see his face to recognize the man", the young German Captain argues. "Mazel tov, Hans. Kehr gut zu uns zurück!", Jakob wishes his friend good luck and a safe return, as he pats his shoulder.

"Where's Dietrich? What takes him so long?", Troy growls angrily. "The Captain's gathering intel with the officers", Daniel O'Donnell tries to assure and calm him. "Why does this take so long?", Sam snaps, his patience worn thin after more than an hour of waiting. "He likely needs to read all those papers. They're probably German or some code language", the Australian LRDP soldier suggests. "We're in a real spy story", Kevin adds with inappropriate enthusiasm. "That Gabrielle was like Mata Hari." "And Hitch that idiot was her target", Troy comments with annoyance. Tully shrugs, as he shifts his matchstick to comment: "We know Hitch, Sarge." "When we get him back, I'll knock some sense into this fool", Sam vows. "His idiocy has almost cost us Dietrich and got him captured by that lying cheating snake." "That could have happened to any of us though. She was quite the stunning beauty", Kevin O'Donnell argues. "You're right, Kevin", the American Sergeant agrees reluctantly. "Dietrich's more sensible than I thought with his principles and all. It made him wary enough to not fall for her charms and warn me." "Cap's a smart guy", Tully agrees, before continuing to chew on his matchstick. "Hey, look over there! Isn't that him?", Thomas Anaru makes them aware of several figures stepping out of the main building.

A smug looking bearded man walks behind Captain Boggs and Captain Dietrich, while two British soldiers guard him. "Gentlemen, ready two Jeeps and prepare for a prisoner exchange!", the German officer orders sternly. Pettigrew and the O'Donnells jump into action immediately to bring the Jeeps from the motorpool which they have already prepared during the last hour. "That's the guy we exchange for Hitch?", Troy asks with a grim expression, glaring at the Italian. "Rodolfo Firanelli, an informant of the Axis troops", his commander replies sternly. "They can have the bastard, if it gets us back Hitch", Sam growls. "And then I'll knock this idiot over the head properly." "Leave him alive, Troy, when we make the effort of rescuing him", Dietrich remarks dryly. "I won't kill him, maybe break his nose", Troy grumbles. "Don't break anything among him. Leave him to Lisa Hartigan's mercy. That's exactly what he deserves", the German Captain advises with a sly smiles. "You're a fox, Dietrich", Troy agrees, as he starts to grin as well. "Dietrich", the Italian speaks now, sounding surprised and curious. "Tu sei il Capitano Dietrich." "Cosa sai di me?", Hans wants to know what he knows about him. "Major Ingelheimer ti cerca e ti vuole", the Italian tells him nothing new that Ingelheimer searches for him and wants to get him. "Cos'altro sai di me?", Dietrich inquires what else he knows, but the man merely grins and shakes his head, obviously unwilling to give anything away. "Anything useful?", Troy growls. "Nothing we wouldn't know already", his younger friend replies. "Let's shake it then!", the American Sergeant declares grimly, as the Jeeps arrive. "Siediti nella jeep!", the German Captain orders their prisoner who obediently sits down in the front seat next to Kevin O'Donnell, while Troy climbs into the back to point his weapon at the Italian. "We drive to the harbor", Dietrich states loudly for everyone, before taking his seat next to Tully and providing the more detailed instructions to his driver. The Kentuckian speeds up and trusts his Captain to navigate them through Tobruk's streets in the dark, while Hans salutes properly to Boggs and the remaining soldiers, as they drive off.

When they approach the harbor, the young officer gets more restless and nervous. Finally he gives the order to stop close to the destroyed warehouse. "This is the place where they want us. Park the Jeeps in a manner that you can drive away quickly", he tells Pettigrew quietly, before calling out loud enough for all his men to hear: "Prepare for a trap!" "This already feels like a trap", Troy agrees, while Daniel never takes his gun off the Italian, when the American Sergeant jumps down from the Jeep. Dietrich nods in agreement, before giving his orders with his practiced sharp command tone: "O'Donnell, Anaru. I want you two at the Browning guns. You stay at the wheel, O'Donnell, you, Pettigrew, take the sniper gun, lean on the hood and stay ready to take out an enemy agent or sniper at my signal. Troy, you come with me as my visible backup. Take the Thompson to show that we're ready to fight our way out, if the need arises. Also bring me the white flag!" All the Rats nod quietly in compliance and take their positions. Troy grabs the gun and readies it with a grim expression, as he steps next to the German Captain.

The Germans arrive soon after them with a Kübelwagen and an armored limousine. Two German agents lead the blindfolded Mark Hitchcock out of the car, while a tall dark-haired man in uniform follows after him with his gun in hand pointed at the Private. The men in the Kübelwagen are armed soldiers who train their weapons at the enemies now. Briefly the young American stumbles and Sam Troy who stands at Hans Dietrich's side growls lowly with barely suppressed anger. "Keep calm, Sergeant! We want him back alive and as fine as possible", the German Captain mutters quietly, as he holds onto the pole bearing the white flag. "You trust them to respect that flag?", the American Sergeant growls warily, never taking his eyes off the enemy agents. "It's international military practice. Not respecting this flag would have much worse consequences than letting us go now, Troy, for some survivors would report it and from then on the Allies would fire at any German, attempting negotiations and temporary truces, rendering them impossible. Even though the Führer might like this idea, the common soldiers and their officers definitely don't", the young Captain argues. "I still met enough of those who just gave a fig about truces and arrangements, when they shot at us without heeding their word and ignoring that flag", Sam counters with a growl. "You're commando soldiers who have operated outside of the range of typically tolerable military practices, Troy. The Commando Order even orders German officers to not treat you like soldiers, but armed criminals", Hans holds against him. "Yeah. But that one's fairly new and lots of guys already did that before this order. You're basically the only German I ever trusted fully to keep your word and an arranged truce. I've had too many others betray me", Troy replies with a wary scowl, glaring at the Abwehr agents who arrange their positions. "And you're one of us armed criminals as well now." Dietrich winces, but cannot argue against this.

"Hauptmann Dietrich", the dark-haired German officer a few years older than the skinny Captain shouts from the other side of the square. Hans scans the surroundings cautiously, while taking a step forward. "Troy, do you see that figure half-hidden on the roof to the left", he whispers to his Sergeant, when he thinks he can make out something unusual. "Trap, sniper", the American Sergeant snarls his assessment, raising his Thompson gun to point it at the roof, even though he can barely make out a shape. "Wait!", Dietrich orders sharply. Squinting he makes out the other officer's rank insignia on his shirt, before calling a grim warning to call back the sniper: "Herr Hauptmann, rufen Sie Ihren Scharfschützen zurück, bevor meine Leute auf ihn scharf schießen!" The German Hauptmann appears briefly astounded, before hollering an order and a few moments later they see the man on the rooftop moving, as he becomes visible to all of them now. "Don't shoot!", Dietrich barks his order. "Sie sind wirklich gut, Dietrich. Zu gut, um nicht schon längst von den Amerikanern als Doppelagent ausgebildet worden zu sein", the older Captain assesses. Hans is slightly taken aback by the accusation that he is too competent to not have been trained by the Americans as an agent far earlier already. "Das ist korrekt, Hauptmann Schinderhannes", he replies with some sarcasm laced into his words, especially at the agent's codename. "Die deutsche Wehrmacht hat mich schließlich zum Beobachtungsoffizier ausgebildet." The other man snorts and observes him sharply at the argument that the German army has trained him as an observation officer after all. "Wir sind uns Ihres Verrats sicher, Dietrich. Sie können sich die fadenscheinigen Ausreden ersparen", the Hauptmann growls that they are assured of his treason and he can spare him the weak explanations. "Wir sind hier, um Private Hitchcock gegen Rodolfo Firanelli zu tauschen", the younger German Captain reminds him of their actual purpose, fed up by the games of those secret agents. "Natürlich. Bringen Sie ihn vor!", the other man agrees, waving to lead Hitchcock to his side and have his blindfold removed, which also makes the deep bloody gashes in his cheek clearly visible.

The blond American has already breathed a sigh of relief, when he has heard his Captain's voice. Now that he can see him standing on the other end of the wide plaza with his proud and unrelenting stance, holding the pole with the white flag, Mark finally feels confident this will all end well. Cap has negotiated so many truces with them and whenever he has had his way, things have gone smoothly and in a civilised manner. Noticing the Private staring at him, Hans nods curtly in what he considers a reassuring gesture, before focusing on the Abwehr officer again. Troy has brought the Italian denouncer next to him upon hearing the man's and Hitch' names. The informant appears gleeful to see his collaborators waiting on the other side. "Jeder geht jeweils einen Schritt vorwärts, bis sie sich in der Mitte treffen, dann weiter bis sie auf der jeweils anderen Seite angekommen sind", Dietrich suggests. "Einverstanden", Hauptmann Schinderhannes agrees, before translating the instructions for Hitchcock with accented English: "Each of you will take a slow step forward until meeting in the middle, before you continue in the same manner, until you finally reach the other side, Private." "Fai lentamente un passo avanti fino a raggiungere il centro. Poi passano dall'altra parte!", Hans translates the orders to Italian for the man next to him who mutters: "Sei troppo intelligente per lasciarti sacrificare, Capitano. Scegli bene i tuoi alleati." Dietrich glares at him and counters: "Dovresti anche. Inoltrarsi!" The man slowly takes step by step as ordered, while Hitchcock does exactly the same.

When the American Private reaches him, Dietrich squeezes his shoulder in a reassuring gesture, staying focused on the Abwehr agents however, as he keeps holding onto the flag pole. Their Hauptmann nods one last time and retreats with his men to the car, while Tully and Kevin similarly start the motors of their Jeeps. A shot ringing through the night makes the Rats whirl around and ready their weapons, as they duck for cover. "They shot the Italian. He knew too much", Hans assesses after a moment. "Let's get outta here!", Troy growls and shoves Hitch into the front seat next to Kevin, while Daniel mans the Browning ready to fire, as the Sergeant follows Dietrich to Tully's Jeep, where the German Captain takes the front seat, while Troy climbs into the back, taking over the gunner's position from Anaru. "Go, Pettigrew!", Hans orders, as soon as all of them are in the Jeeps which speed off immediately.

"What the heck was that?", Troy snarls, once they are assured that they are out of the immediate danger zone. "That was the execution of an agent who knew too much", Dietrich assesses coldly. "Ironically, he warned me to choose my allies well, before he went to his death." "Damned Jerries", Sam growls with disgust. "I'm not sure whether McLean wouldn't do the same with me after falling into enemy hands", the German Captain counters with a grim expression. "I'll kill him myself, if he does that", the American Sergeant vows. "He knows that and would execute you alongside me", Hans remarks with a saddened tone. "I'm sorry, Troy, for drawing you into this." "You're my friend, you stubborn Jerry. I'd rather be shot alongside you than watch them treat you like that", Troy declares with true conviction. The necessity to provide instructions to the driver to make their way back to their base stops their discussion.

As they reach the fort, a whole group of officers awaits them in the courtyard. "You made it", Captain Boggs breathes a sigh of relief, as he approaches his younger colleague, recognizing Hitchcock in the second Jeep. "I have experience with this kind of situation", Dietrich replies dryly. Lisa Hartigan joins them in the courtyard along with Doctor Raymond who has been called to look after the tortured young Private. Hitch is more focused on the nurse however, as he stumbles toward her on unsteady feet. "I'm so sorry, Lisa. I was such an idiot", he mutters despondently with tears in his eyes. "Yes, you were, Mark Hitchcock", the resolute nurse confirms with a scowl, before pulling him into a tight embrace. "I was so worried", she gets out between sobs. "I won't do anything like this ever again. I swear it, Lisa", Mark vows earnestly. "When do you want to schedule our marriage?" "Whoa. Mark. This has really changed you. But we need to talk about this more calmly and quietly", Lisa Hartigan reins him in gently running her hand over his scratched cheek. "First, we'll need to patch you up. Then we can start making plans."

"Dietrich, report to the hospital as well! You were knocked unconscious and Sergeant Moffit mentioned something about you being poisoned and injured which you failed to report properly. I want you checked and treated, before anything else", Major Fisher orders sternly. "Yes, Major. I merely did not consider my injuries worth mentioning in the light of everything else. Now that Hitchcock is safe, I have the time to worry about them", the German Captain agrees. "I cannot approve of your self-sacrificing attitude", the older American officer scolds him sternly. "I have no delusions about my status, Major. When we handed them the Italian spy, the Hauptmann from Abwehr executed him before even entering the car. I'm well aware that this is the fate of any agent knowing too much and with the risk of falling into enemy hands", Hans assesses harshly. Fisher does not contradict him, but watches the skinny young officer with a bit of concern he intends to address with General Atkins who acts as a mentor for the German Captain, even if he does not declare or show this openly too often.

Dietrich turns away and follows Mark Hitchcock and Lisa Hartigan to the hospital. As soon as Hitch becomes aware of his commander entering the hospital behind them, he turns to the young officer and hugs him tightly. "Thank you so much for getting me out of there, Cap." "You're welcome, Hitchcock. Did you doubt that we would do anything to help you?", Hans counters with slightly wounded pride, as he tries to keep his dignity in spite of the emotional display. "Not for a moment, Cap. I trust you and Sarge." "So do I", Lisa confirms, before pulling the skinny officer into a hug and placing a kiss on his cheek. Dietrich looks a bit flustered by her behaviour. "They told me that you wouldn't come, but I was sure that you and Sarge will find a way", Mark tells the young with a relieved expression. "We had to get a bit creative. But I'm sure your friends will break you in, once you've had the time to recover", Hans tells him gently. "I couldn't believe my eyes however, when I saw you kissing Gabrielle", Hitch comments with a tormented expression.

The German Captain grimaces at the memory, while he explains: "I suspected her of being an agent of Abwehr since you introduced her to us. I thus played along with her scheme to get the chance to confirm this. Kissing her served to bind her attention so I could check her handbag and draw the stiletto." Deirdre O'Donnell, who has stepped closer to help as well, looks shocked at the explanation, as he exclaims: "You kissed whom?" "A German agent kissed me and I played along to uncover her", the young officer replies a bit awkwardly. Seeing the blond nurse's horrified expression, he takes a step closer to place his hand on her forearm. "I suspected her of trying to seduce me to lay a trap for me which was exactly what she did. I hold no affection whatsoever for the woman, but I hope that you realize what I am trying to protect you from by refusing any closer relationship as long as you are within the reach of the German secret service." Deirdre stares at him for a few moments, before the first sob escapes her throat and she cannot stop herself from crying. Hans is slightly overwhelmed by the reaction, placing an arm around her shoulder on instinct, as he speaks calmly and in a reassuring manner. When Deirdre leans forward and continues crying into his jacket and shirt, he winces slightly but is not coldhearted enough to push her away. Lisa Hartigan also comes to both their support now, as she rubs her friend's back and whispers quiet reassurances to her, leaving an awkward Mark Hitchcock standing at the side and watching.

Further medical personnel gather around the quartet. "What happened?", Mary Falkowsky wants to know, while Doctor Rothschild approaches his startled looking colleague Humphrey Raymond to question him about the same thing. With Dietrich and Hartigan occupied to help the sobbing and crying Deirdre O'Donnell, Mark Hitchcock is the only one remaining as a potential source of information. "We came back and Cap told her about the German agent he kissed - she wanted to seduce him, but he was more clever than me to realize that. Then, Deirdre just ... started crying." The young officer in question looks quite desperate, until Mary Falkowsky and Anne Raymond release him from his awkward position by taking over being Deirdre's shoulder to cry on and speaking gently to the nurse. "Come with me, Captain Dietrich!", Samuel Rothschild addresses the young German, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You've done enough for today and tonight... And I would like to hear more about this German agent, especially how you were injured in the process of this operation", he adds sternly, leading the brown-haired man to the officer's ward.

David Troy stirs from his sleep and looks at them bleary-eyed. "You got injured again, Dietrich?", he asks with audible worry in his tone. "I went celebrating with your brother and his friends. I should have known that this could only lead to trouble", the German Captain replies dryly. "How have you been poisoned?", Doctor Rothschild wants to know. "The agent scratched me on the abdomen", Hans answers him, opening his tearstained jacket. "Quite deeply, as the scratches even bled", the Jewish medic assesses with some worry in his tone, when he notices the dried bloodstains on his shirt. "She must have had the poison under her fingernails, as I felt the effect rather quickly", Dietrich adds to the explanation. "Sit down, Captain!", Samuel Rothschild orders calmly and again the German officer complies without resistance or protest, as he takes a seat on a chair next to David Troy's bed, but purposefully refuses to sit down on a hospital bed. "I also need to check on your concussion." Hans complies with the procedure he is intimately familiar with, when the medic removes the bandages around his head, checking the wound which does not require further stitches, before performing the test for Dietrich's pupil response. "Since you have been operating and seeing normally for the past hours, you appear to have been lucky again, Captain Dietrich", Samuel Rothschild assesses. "Let's check those scratches next!"

The American pilot eyes him curiously. "Who scratched you and poisoned you?" "Gabrielle, Hitchcock's latest flame who turned out to be a German agent for Abwehr", Hans replies dryly. "You had an adventure with a lady spy and didn't tell me?", David asks incredulously. Dietrich resists the urge to roll his eyes, refusing to sink to the level of the American. "We only just returned from this 'adventure' as you call it." "That's what all the commotion is about", the younger Troy brother concludes. "Well done, Troy. You might qualify for the name Sherlock at some point, if you continue like this", the German Captain comments sarcastically. "I like you too, Dietrich", David counters with a grin he considers winning, although the younger man merely glares at him. Doctor Rothschild meanwhile helps Hans Dietrich out of his shirt and looks a bit desperate when taking in his whole appearance, skinny, bruised with even more fresh bruises than he has had before, but the improvised bandages made of the torn blouse draw his attention the most. Unwrapping them uncovers the deep gashes that make both Rothschild and Troy wince. "You're attracting trouble at a worrying speed, Captain Dietrich", Samuel Rothschild remarks. "Those are very risky to get infected. I will need to dig in there and apply the disinfectant." Dietrich swallows but nods with a grim expression. "Please do so. An anaesthetic was enough. I'd rather not suffer infection as well."

"Nurse", Rothschild calls for assistance. A few seconds later, a worried looking Anne Raymond joins them, eyeing the German Captain with concern, when she becomes aware of his appearance. "We need to disinfect the scratches and I require something for scraping out the wounds", the blond medic orders. "Of course. I will prepare everything, Doctor Rothschild", the dark-haird nurse complies and takes off quickly to gather the medical equipment for the procedure. Dietrich takes a deep breath and prepares himself mentally for the pain this promises for him. "I'm sorry that I can't give you any morphine. But I'd rather avoid drug interactions, since I have no idea what the agent of Abwehr has poisoned you with", Samuel Rothschild tells the young officer with an apologetic tone, as he gently squeezes is left shoulder to reassure him. "I will survive it, Doctor. Pain has become a familiar companion in the past weeks or rather years", the skinny German assures him dryly. "I don't want to be the one torturing you, Captain Dietrich", Rothschild counters with honest concern. "You don't. I'm grateful for your treatment, Doctor Rothschild", Hans answers quickly.

Instead of Anne Raymond, Lisa Hartigan returns with the medical supplies. "I have a few words to exchange with our Captain here during his treatmet", she whispers to Doctor Rothschild who merely shrugs and turns to his patient's treatment. "Shouldn't you be looking after your fiance?", Hans asks her, raising his eyebrows in a questioning expression. "I'll scratch his eyes out later, right before I'll tear off his head", Lisa Hartigan promises with a grin. As soon as the disinfectant is applied to his abdomen, the German hisses with pain though and presses his eyes shut, as he grasps the wood of the chair tightly. To distract himself, but also out of concern, Dietrich asks the nurse: "Will your friend Lieutenant O'Donnell be fine? Have you looked after her?" "We'll see. Time heals all wounds they say, although we've seen enough wounds here, which even time won't heal", Lisa replies, sounding worried about Deirdre as well. "What happened?", Rothschild asks with concern and curiosity, while continuing with the treatment of his visibly suffering patient. "I told her what happened to me and tried to remind her that this was exactly what I'm trying to protect her from by refusing her ... advances", Hans replies quietly between gritted teeth between hisses of pain. "That wasn't very sensitive of you", nurse Hartigan scolds him. "She really likes you after all." "I'm sure she'll find somebody far better and much safer to like", Dietrich grits out between clenched jaws, trying not to show his pain too obviously, but failing miserably. The brown-haired nurse observes him closely, but since he presses his eyes tightly shut, he cannot possibly see any of her gestures.

"I don't think you understand Deirdre's situation fully, Captain", Lisa finally addresses the young man. "She's been a country girl, the second oldest daughter of Irish immigrants working as farmhands and travelling from farm to farm for work. Her older sister has been married off quickly and Deirdre's helped to take care of her younger siblings until she's volunteered to become a nurse for the army, because she didn't want to end up being married to some farmer at twenty years of age with the only perspectives being to care for a farm or to become a widow, if he'd join the war. It took courage to do what she did, learn to become a nurse, travel to another continent and work in a warzone." The German officer looks a bit chagrined to never have considered this perspective on the war of the women, who are not trained soldiers after all, to do their work here in a foreign country helping the wounded soldiers, both of their homeland as of other nations. "I apologize to never have appreciated how much courage doing your service asks of you, Lieutenant", the young man gets out after recovering from the painful procedure, before he will be bandaged. "It is not Deirdre O'Donnell's courage I doubt, but her realistic perspective of how dangerous being a direct target for your enemy's secret service is", Hans assures her. "You think that we have a choice about who we love?", Lisa asks boldly and the German Captain flinches at her words, averting his gaze. "No, of course not. I ... was engaged before and suffered through the pain of loss after all, as you know. That's exactly why I'd like to protect your friend."

Lisa snorts and places her hand on his left shoulder to force him to look at her. "You really don't get it, Captain, although you're a smart man. For Deirdre you're like the charming prince of a fairy tale. She's a poor country girl, yet you've treated a her like a gentleman would treat a lady." "I've treated everybody with politeness. I was brought up like that", the German Captain counters indignantly. "We know that you're a well-bred gentlemen. But for Deirdre you're the handsome young hero who saved her cousin and later even her life, the selfless nobleman whom she turned to for help when her friend was in danger. Even though she was down-cast when Sara died, having General Atkins and Major Turner as our patients showed us that other officers would have shown her far less compassion and not even have negotiated", Lisa Hartigan explains to him, enjoying to see his dumbstruck expression. "But it was never my intention to win her over with any of this", Hans mutters a bit desperately. "Which only makes it more authentic and believable", the American nurse counters. "She still loves you for it, especially because you're honest and not even trying to seduce anybody", Lisa argues. "Speaking of which. What can you tell me about Mark and this woman from German secret service?", she switches the topic with the precision of an experienced interrogator. "Hardly anything, as I'm the last person to learn about his affairs. He introduced us all to her today and spoke about meeting her on the previous evening. Moffit was the one out with him yesterday, as the others returned to the fort with me", Hans argues defensively. "I'll speak with him", Lieutenant Hartigan announces the planned interrogation. "Don't harm my men, if you can avoid it! I can understand that you will perform a rather painful interrogation of Mark Hitchcock though", Dietrich tells her with dry humor. "He definitely deserves it. I consider this sufficient punishment for his idiocy." "You can count on me Captain", Lisa replies with a grin, as she stands up. "I will start right away."

"I don't want to be at the receiving end of her wrath", David Troy argues, looking alomst intimidated. Doctor Rothschild has finished the young officer's treatment and bandaging and announces to him: "You will stay here overnight, Captain. "With the narcotics and the slight concussion I want you to stay under supervision." Dietrich looks less than happy, but concedes. "Let me get my pyjamas and a book from my room!", the German Captain replies quietly. "That's acceptable. Don't take a shower with the fresh bandages!" "Taking a shower before and removing the bandages was what has caused me the trouble of becoming attackable in the first place", the young officer argues dryly. "I'll be more careful now. Do you think that removing the stitches from my gunshot wound is a possibility, Doctor?" Rothschild observes him closely. "I will decide this tomorrow after checking your state and how your old and new wounds have developed." "Thank you, Doctor", his patient replies cooperatively. Hans knows better than to antagonize the medic after all and actually appreciates the American Doctor's efforts on his behalf.

Both Bastet and Fritz seem to have found shelter somewhere else, as none wait on the doorstep, when Dietrich returns to his room which makes it easier for him, as he will not have to turn the animals away. Picking up his pyjamas, a bathrobe and another book about forensics along with his notes and writing equipment takes little time, before he returns to the hospital. David Troy has returned to sleep by the time, the young German enters the officer's ward. Doctor Rothschild who has awaited him, eyes the skinny young man with curiosity. "What are you reading?" "'Who did the shooting' by a Colonel Calvin Goddard", Dietrich replies coolly. "I doubt that this is a crime novel", the blond medic comments wryly. "It is a book on forensics and the identification of bullets and the guns that fired them", Hans answers his indirect question. "Why on earth are you reading this? There are so many bullets in a warzone and nobody cares about the shooter", Rothschild states slightly incredulously. "You need to ask Merlin what he was thinking, when offering me to be trained in forensics and providing me with this book. He even mentioned that I should take lessons with you regarding the identifcation of poisons and other relevant substances, Doctor", the young German argues calmly. "After the collection you and your men confiscated you can start learning about this tomorrow, Captain. Then, I have you under my supervision at least for a day or two and you won't start any gladiatorial fights or get involved with any spy networks", Rothschild offers with a smile. "Peter will be delighted to have you as our trainee."

"As far as this is compatible with my men's training, I will gladly take your offer", the skinny officer replies with a grateful expression. "You won't participate in this training for a day or two with your scratches and if I remove your sutures tomorrow, as you mustn't tear the tissue", the blond medic admonishes him sternly. "Then you will have the time to stay here for your chemical workshop, while your men perform their fighting training." "I will have to give orders and organize everything, but this should be possible, Doctor Rothschild. Thank you", Dietrich agrees. "You know that you're my favourite officer in town, Captain Dietrich. Working with you will be a pleasure I'm sure", Samuel Rothschild answers, patting him on the shoulder. "Good night, Captain. Call anytime when you feel that your head causes you troubles! You shouldn't underestimate the danger of a stroke from a haemorrhage stuck in a blood vessel in the brain or a burst vessel though we should have been able to notice that already." "I will, Doctor. Good night", his patient wishes him, before changing into the pyjamas. Reading and concentratin actually is too much strain for the concussed Captain who has to surrender after half an hour of honest efforts to get into the materials. With a weary sigh, Hans makes out the light and soon after falls asleep as well.