Hans breathes heavily, as he tries to escape the precarious position he finds himself in. Surrounded by enemies, he has seen his loyal men at his side fall, Feldwebel Schmidt's face is among the countless visages of the dead haunting him, as he tries to escape and survive to fight another battle, when he can hear the shouts and battle cries of his enemies. At first they are English commands uttered in various accents ranging from Australian to American, but then the scene appears to shift and the shouts of his pursuers resound in angry German. Sam Troy appears at his side, but collapses from a bullet to the chest. "Tötet den Verräter!", Dietrich hears Rommel's cold command, before feeling a stinging pain in his right shoulder himself, causing him to moan, as he clutches his shoulder where he already feels a heavy hand gripping him. Trying to get free of his captors, as he is aware that German captivity means certain death for him, he drags himself onward, struggling to escape the grasps on his clothes. "Hans!", a desperate voice of a child calls out to him and the German Captain tries to find his orientation where this is coming from. "Hans", he hears again and feels someone pressing against his side, before another sensation is added, as the grip at his shoulder is removed, turning into something warm and furry rubbing against his cheek.

The German Captain wakes with a start, still breathing heavily, as he pushes himself up. "Meow", Bastet greets him and rubs her head against his lower back which is as far as she can reach. "Hans", Ari repeats with tears streaming down his face, as he stares at the young man with wide fearful eyes. "I'm sorry, Ari", the German gets out with guilt and self-loathing almost strangling him. "I didn't mean to scare you or Bastet. It was... a very bad dream." The Jewish orphan nestles against his side again, listening to his heartbeat. "I feel better, when I can hear your heart after such dreams", the boy replies shyly, simply enjoying to feel his brother's steady presence again. Discontent with being ignored, Bastet climbs onto Dietrich's right thigh and meows, demanding her attention which she receives in the form of being scratched behind the ears and over her head. Finally happy she lets herself drop on the German Captain's lap and starts purring contently.

"I'm sorry for scaring you, Ari", Hans repeats guiltily, but the boy simply mutters: "It's okay, Hans. I love you." The German Captain winces slightly at the words which imply not only the boy's unflinching trust, but also that he will not leave him willingly which is a problem for both of them. "Ari, I love you like my own little brother. But I still cannot stay with you all the time", Dietrich tries to argue. "You have to go away and help people", the Jewish orphan repeats obediently what he has learned. "Yes, and also it's not safe here for you. We have a war here which means many people are hurt and killed", Hans explains gently. "I want you safe where there is no war." "Why can't you come with me?", Ari wants to know. The skinny German sighs wearily. "I told you that I am an officer. It is my job to take care of the soldiers fighting in this war to protect and help them and to protect innocent people like you and Kiri or all other people who are not soldiers." Ari cries quietly into his pyjamas top, as he whimpers: "But it's not fair. You're my brother. I love you." "Life isn't always fair. When this war is over and if I'm still alive, I promise you that you can stay with me as long as you like, Ari. But now it's too dangerous", Dietrich tries to convince him. "I can really stay with you then?", the young orphan asks incredulously. "Yes, Ari. Once there is no war anymore", the lean German assures him. "I wish there is no war anymore very soon", Ari declares with conviction, nestling against the young officer's side. "So do I, Ari", Hans agrees with a sad tone and a fatalistic expression. He has neither any perspective nor hope of surviving this war, considering himself a dead man walking, living on borrowed time which will end as soon as he gets caught by the German side to end his life with torture and an execution, given that he is an Allied commando officer as well as a convicted traitor and defector. Ari's hope lives however that he will one day be able to stay with Hans as his brother and caregiver. Clinging to this hope he hugs the young German Captain who has put his left arm around him to hold him gently.

Bastet's desire for exploration has reawakened and she tries to get off the bed without hurting herself, still feeling scared by the height. Dietrich finally takes some pity on her and carefully lifts her up to set her on the ground where she immediately darts off toward a corner with a small dust ball that looks great for chasing. The luxury of having his own running water and a mirror in the room for washing and shaving is something Hans really appreciates right now. However, once he is finished with his first task of personal hygiene, he becomes painfully aware that he has no uniform left to wear. Boggs has given his not fully clean uniform from the previous days to the laundry after taking out his papers and other possessions. Except for this the young officer has no clean clothes left that neither neither his American dress uniform, which he has never worn until now, nor his former German uniform, as all else has been handed to the laundry straight away by Sergeant Moffit who has taken care of his possessions. "Wait here for a moment, Ari. I need to speak with Captain Boggs", the German Captain tells the Jewish orphan who has no qualms about wearing a sweaty shirt and trousers again.

After briefly checking the corridor to be empty, Hans knocks on the neighboring door where he knows the older Captain to reside. Luckily, the older American officer opens after several seconds, looking honestly surprised to find his young colleague in his baggy pyjamas at his doorstep. "What can I do for you, Dietrich?", James Boggs asks calmly, realizing from the German's expression that whatever he has to ask is quite embarrassing for him. "I need to ask you to lend me a pair of trousers and a shirt for today only until some of my clothes have been returned from the laundry, Captain Boggs", the proud young man gets out without loss of dignity. Boggs regards him briefly. Although Dietrich is notably taller than him, he is also a lot thinner, especially at the moment. "I can lend you a shirt, but it will undoubtedly look to baggy on you, and I have no idea if you can wear my trousers even with a belt", the American Captain replies and adds immediately, when he notices the rejection in the younger officer's eyes: "Which is still better than having nothing else. I suppose it would do to help you with your belt as well." The German Captain relaxes visibly and nods with a grateful expression: "Thank you. I really appreciate your help." "You're welcome. I'll come over to your room in a minute", Boggs reassures him and closes the door.

When Hans returns to his room, he finds Bastet in the middle of finding her way into his satchel. "Bastet, nein!", the young officer orders sternly and the kitten immediately stops her misdeeds and climbs out sheepishly. By the time Boggs knocks at his door, Dietrich has managed to restore some order to his room, although the kitten curiously wants to know who comes to visit and immediately tries to entice the American Captain by letting herself drop onto his boot. "You have a very fickle lady to serve here, Dietrich", James Boggs comments with a wide smile, as he bends down to pet the little cat after handing the lean German his clothes. "You have no idea. I'm lucky my pillow survived the night unharmed, although I was not the one sleeping on it", Hans comments dryly, as he gets out of his pyjamas and into the trousers. "Ari is a much more quiet companion." The Jewish orphan beams happily, as he declares: "Thank you, Hans." His caregiver nods with a smile, as he struggles into the right shirt sleeve with a wince. Boggs has been absolutely right that the shirt is far too baggy on him, as are the trousers and without a belt Dietrich stands no chance of wearing them. His older colleague has been quietly attentive and waited for the younger officer to pick up his equipment without saber or dagger though and help the German along unbidden, aware that this is embarrassing enough for him from his tense stance. "Not perfect, but better than running around in your pyjamas which are also quite baggy", he finally comments. "Thank you, Boggs. I ... truly owe you my gratitude", Hans tells him earnestly and adds with a flash of guilt: "I really didn't mean to offend you by not accepting your proposal." "I'm not offended, Dietrich", Boggs assures him. "I have seen myself what hell you have gone through in the past few weeks."

Spotting the German Erkennungsmarke along with the American dog tags, the older Captain intends to ask in private what he has already wondered about yesterday. "Why do you keep wearing the German tag, Dietrich? The Wehrmacht will neither report to your family nor care about such a show of diligence." Hans Dietrich has tensed visibly, but replies cautiously after a moment of hesitation: "It is not for the German Wehrmacht or my family that I keep wearing this. It's for myself to remind me of who I am and what I fight for. I have always declared very clearly that my foremost goal is to free my homeland of the Nazis and their regime of terror. This homeland is Germany, not the United States of America, where I have never been in all my life, which I know only from books and tales." Boggs observes him closely, but is absolutely assured of the younger Captain's honesty. "As Lieutenant Colonel McLean told you, that is a very challenging position to take. You will not gain many friends on the Allied side with this attitude." Dietrich smiles mirthlessly, as he explains his attitude: "I don't expect to gain friends or receive any awards or promotions. A career means nothing to me, as I don't expect to end this war in any other way than through an ultimate sacrifice. You know yourself what the German commando order entails and how a defector and traitor is treated, if caught." Boggs looks almost shocked by his fatalistic perspective, but nods with a better understanding for the young officer's willingness to put his own life and health at risk, considering his own life expendable. Also James Boggs reminds himself that it should not be such a cause for surprise that a man who has gone through the traumata Dietrich has behind him would be left physically and emotionally scarred. How to convince the young man that he has a life to look forward to and a new home to live in the American Captain has absolutely no idea however. But from all that he knows about the proud young German officer leading such a discussion unprepared will not end well. "You shouldn't abandon all hope completely, Dietrich", the older Captain advises gently, before pointing at the sutures at his colleague's side. "You might wish to get them bandaged quickly before they start bleeding or get infected." His younger second in command nods in agreement. "You're absolutely right... at least with the second part. I will go to the field hospital right away before breakfast."

After allowing Bastet to leave the room with them they split ways, while the kitten starts her curious exploration of the corridor, getting to know her new territory more intimately. Ari follows Hans to the field hospital where the blond Irish nurse Deirdre O'Donnell greets them with a wide smile. "Lieutenant O'Donnell", the tall officer addresses her calmly, smiling slightly. "Captain Dietrich", she replies with a lot more enthusiasm. "It's good to see you." The German Captain appears slightly perplexed, but recovers quickly. "You're well advised not to draw Major Timberlake's attention or we will both have to suffer her wrath for inappropriate behaviour", he whispers quietly with a hint of humor but also concern in his tone. Deirdre blushes vividly, turning completely red, as she stutters: "How ... did you...?" Dietrich's smile turns more amused and slightly mischievous, as he murmurs silkily: "You're not particularly hard to read, Lieutenant. But we have come to an agreement and you have given me your word in which I trust." The last part is spoken earnestly, as she can see clearly when her green eyes meet his brown ones. "Of course, Captain. I ... just ... like you", the blond nurse stammers, truly embarrassed. "I sincerely wish for you to be happy, Lieutenant O'Donnell. And I honestly believe that you could never be that with a man like me. I'm a condemned traitor, living on borrowed time, and my demise is the only way in which I can see this war ending for me. You deserve better than getting your heart broken and becoming a widow within months", the young officer argues with a serious expression and tone. Deirdre brushes a tear off her cheek, nodding quietly, as she has no idea what to argue against this. Maybe Lisa has a good idea. She will need to consult with her later.

"I need your support to reapply the bandages and check on the sutures, as I left them exposed after the shower last night, Lieutenant", Hans Dietrich tells her calmly, returning to business. "Of course, Captain", Deirdre replies, as she finally remembers her role of the diligent nurse. "Please, come with me to the officer's ward." David Troy, the permanent resident of the officer's ward, is more than happy about his visitors, as Ari greets him in a friendly manner, as soon as he enters, and Dietrich also politely wishes him a good morning and politely asks about his state of health. Seeing the German Captain in a far too baggy shirt and trousers which obviously cannot be his, David inquires curiously: "Morning, Dietrich. Did you finally run out of your last pieces of clothing to run around like a scarecrow the crows stole the last stuffing out of?" The proud German Captain looks truly offended at the comparison, growling: "You're well advised to keep your less than flattering comparisons to yourself, Captain Troy." As he spits the rank title like an insult, David becomes aware that he has overstepped an invisible bound, although he would have considered the young officer to have a good sense of humor. "Easy, buddy. I didn't mean you no harm. It was just a joke", the pilot tries to reassure the angry German. "I don't share your sense of humor, Troy. Spare me such episodes, if you possibly can!", Hans counters with annoyance, as he unbuttons his shirt.

Deirdre O'Donnell looks absolutely worried as she glances from one Captain to the other. Once she can make out the injured younger officer's bruised and scarred chest she turns her attention back to him and helps him out of the shirt sleeves unbidden to avoid aggravating his wounds. "How is your shoulder?", she asks, eyeing the large old and fresh bruises at the front and back with clear concern. "I truly miss nurse Regula's massages", Hans mutters quietly. "She showed me some of her techniques. I would like to help you, if you want me to", Deirdre offers shyly. Dietrich hesitates, but finally concedes: "I'm willing to accept any help I can get, Lieutenant. The events of the past weeks have unfortunately aggravated the wound. But I really need my main arm's mobility and strength." The Irish stemming nurse smiles happily: "I'm absolutely glad, if I can help you in any way, Captain." "Ari, why don't you chat with David, while nurse O'Donnell treats my injuries?", Hans suggests gently to the Jewish orphan who has not left his side since entering the field hospital. Ari nods quietly and moves to David's cot who beams at him happily and immediately starts showering him in all kinds of stories and tall tales.

"Please sit down, so I can reach your shoulder better, Captain", Deirdre inquires, before starting her treatment as soon as her patient has complied, rubbing some oil onto his shoulder and back. Given how skinny the lean officer is by now she can feel every bone, muscle and sinew during her treatment. After the first minute the German Captain has put his rolled up shirt sleeve in his mouth to bite on and given how he presses his eyes shut and shivers slightly from the tension, he suffers through excruciating pain. "I'm sorry. Should I stop?", Deirdre whispers after a few minutes of kneading through his shoulder belt. Dietrich requires a few seconds to catch his breath and regain his bearings, before being able to answer: "No, please continue. It hurts immensely, but I can feel the cramped muscles becoming less tense." "Tell me, when to stop, because the pain is too much", Deirdre reminds him, gently placing a hand on his right shoulder which makes him wince slightly. "That won't be necessary. I'm intimately familiar with pain", the proud young Captain grinds out stubbornly.

Ten minutes later, they are actually finished and Hans is shaking notably with exhaustion and pain. "You should try to actively relax your muscles more often, Captain. Don't do any exercises or put any strain on your arm and shoulder for the next one or two hours or better days!", Deirdre advises diligently, empathizing with the young man's pain. "I will wash the sweat and oil off with a sponge, before we can apply the bandages. Your sutured wound shouldn't get infected." Dietrich is far too weary to protest and simply allows her to perform the cleaning, as he gets his breathing and the pain in his shoulder belt, arm and back under control. Only when she puts too much pressure on one of his cracked ribs, does he wince slightly, remaining still and compliant otherwise. With ample time to observe him, Deirdre is shocked by the amount of bruises and scars the young officer has accumulated over his short life and career. At least his body is resilient and good at healing, since most of the bruises are fading and none of his wound has not become infected.

Seeing the round German Erkennungsmarke around his neck in addition to the American dog tags serves as a clear reminder who the young man actually is, a defected German Captain, not an American officer. Is he right with his expectation to not survive this war under any circumstances? Five weeks ago when she has first met him he has looked even more badly bruised in the face after the torture through the SS which still sends a shudder down Deirdre's spine to simply imagine what kind of treatment he has been subjected to. Back then, they have also looked for similarities between the young man and the famous actress sharing his family name. Even though he has shyly denied this in the beginning, Deirdre is still proud of herself that she has been right and he is Marlene's cousin, sharing a similarity in his cheekbones' structure and features she has noted immediately.

Unaware of her thoughts and consideration, the thin Captain sits up straight and helps her along with holding onto and wrapping the bandages around his midsection, tensing ever so slightly at any direct touch to his wound, especially during the disinfection. "You'll be fine, Captain", Deirdre tells him compassionately, gently placing her hand on his left shoulder, when the ordeal is finally over. "Doctor Andrews kept saying that you have the constitution of an ox to survive all that you have." Dietrich sighs wearily. "I wish I had such a constitution. Those past few weeks were tormentous and have cost me a lot." "But you're still alive and you will get better soon, when you finally have the time to recover", the blond nurse tries to cheer him up. "I have duties to fulfill, Lieutenant. I'm merely tolerated for my usefulness, and not seen as an Allied officer like anybody else", the German Captain mutters despondently. "You've got an American citizenship and you're certainly not worth less than anybody else", Deirdre O'Donnell protests vehemently.

Hans bears a fatalistic smile, as he argues quietly to not be heard by Ari: "Not in your eyes, Lieutenant. But I have been shown the attitude of the superior officers quite clearly yesterday. I'm a branded traitor and defector, a former Wehrmacht officer who served under the Nazi regime. I will never lose this mark whatever I do." Meeting her gaze directly, he adds: "That's exactly the reason why I must not give in to your sympathies, Lieutenant. I like you and I don't want you to become branded or endangered just for being associated with me. That much I owe you for all you have done for me." Deirdre looks truly desperate, as she argues: "But I don't care what people say about you. I know that you're honest, honorable, gentle and empathetic, a really polite, intelligent man I'd never find again." "You should find more than enough men possessing such qualities with less of a dark mark, Lieutenant", Hans argues grimly. "I honestly want to protect you, not hurt you." Deirdre gulps and wipes a few tears out of her eyes, more convinced than ever that she truly loves this man. He has led the very same argument with his ward Ari yesterday, equally eager to protect the boy he loves like his own son, as she can tell from his behaviour. Lisa will know how to convince the stubborn, selfless young officer, as she has managed the feat a few times already.

"Can we at least stay friends and you accompany me like you offered to Mary Falkowsky?", Deirdre O'Donnell asks quietly, clinging to her last bit of hope. "Such a friendship would hardly be appropriate and not really protect you, Lieutenant. Being associated with me could cause you harm from the Allied and Axis side. But I will of course not let you down, if you need a male companion for going into town and visiting some location where you would be ill advised to go on your own, especially in a Muslim country such as this during an active war raging", Dietrich agrees after some hesitation. On the one hand he likes the shy and quiet nurse who also is the cousin of his two new Australian soldiers whom he will get to know better and spend a lot of time with. But on the other hand he seriously worries about her safety, especially should the German side find out about any association with him. Major Ingelheimer from Abwehr would be cold-blooded enough to go after her in order to get to him which is also the reason why he wants Ari out of the country as soon as possible. Deirdre O'Donnell looks more than happy with her success, beaming brightly, as she helps him back into his shirt.

'There's no rest for the wicked', Hans thinks wryly, when he hears Sam Troy's voice booming: "Finally, Captain. Baldy was right after all." "Troy, this is a hospital. You need not use a volume as if you'd like to raise the dead", Dietrich scolds him dryly. "And please tell me you didn't actually press or threaten Captain Boggs!" The American Sergeant appears to be in a good mood, as he takes the comment with humor rather than being offended. "No. Boggsy's really alright, I promise. Looks like you're doing pretty fine too, Captain Fox Kit. You're ready for breakfast?" "How about saying hello to your dear brother?", the German Captain asks sarcastically, pointing at David who smiles at him gratefully, before grinning at Sam. "Morning, Sammy. You in for a beer along with my new friends Hitch, Kevin and Danny?" Deirdre O'Donnell blushes slightly, as she becomes aware of her cousins' involvement. "As I am sure that you don't wish to compromise our dear nurses, Captain Troy, you surely mean that your friends and your brother will share a beer outside of the hospital, thinking of their dear friend and wishing him a speedy recovery", the German Captain intercedes on her behalf with a drawl dripping with irony, nodding briefly to the young blond nurse, before taking a step sideways and standing at attention, even clicking his heels, as Major Timberlake enters the ward with the atmosphere of a fury rising from Tartaros to haunt whoever has wronged her.

Her blue eyes' gaze wanders from one of them to the next, as she weighs and measures each of them carefully. "Captain Dietrich has made an excellent proposal and is the only one here to show an even moderately acceptable behavior... with the exception of you, Ari, dear." The Jewish orphan huddles against his brother's side, looking quite intimidated by the stern blond nurse. "You, Captain Troy, will immediately reconsider your attitude, if you wish to remain in my hospital!", Erica Timberlake declares with an icy tone that actually makes David shiver and Sam adopt an equally straight and proper stance as his Captain. "You can leave for now, while I have a serious word with Captain Troy about his behavior", the head nurse dismisses them all coolly and not a single one of them even considers not obeying immediately. "Lieutenant O'Donnell", Erica Timberlake declares icily as an afterthought. "We will have a serious talk afterwards." "Yes, Ma'am", Deirdre replies with a shaky voice, obviously afraid of the Major. "Good luck and take care, Lieutenant!", Dietrich whispers quietly to her as a manner of reassurance, as soon as they are out of sight and earshot, before turning quickly to leave with Ari and Troy, lest the Sergeant causes further ruckus.

"You got eyes at the back of your head, Dietrich? How did you see her coming, while standing with your back to the entrance?", Troy asks his German friend curiously, as soon as they have left the enemy territory of the Major's hospital. The tall Captain bears a slightly amused smile. "I didn't really see her as much as smell her. Major Timberlake has a very specific and intense perfume which spreads quickly, especially since the ward's walls separating the few beds from the rest of the room are only made of cloth." Troy looks totally dumbstruck for a few seconds before starting to laugh out loudly. "You're amazing. You got a better nose than Fritz, Captain Sherlock", the American Sergeant assesses with a wide grin. "I shouldn't forget keeping you as my backup." "Since we serve in the same unit nowadays, this is very likely to happen, Troy. Don't expect me to support you in any actions against the Major though", Hans replies dryly. "You only support your cute blond girlfriend? I saw you whispering", Troy counters with a grin that turns even wider when he sees the younger officer blushing slightly. "Deirdre O'Donnell is not my girlfriend!", Dietrich protests vehemently. "Come on, Captain. We've all seen her starry eyes when she looks at you in the last few weeks", Sam counters, still grinning. "You don't get it, Troy. I'm trying my utmost to dissuade her from this notion. Being associated with me is dangerous for anybody. You and the Rats are all professional soldiers, commando troopers even, who know the risks and can fend for yourselves. But Deirdre O'Donnell or the children neither understand the danger and gravity nor could defend themselves should German intelligence move against them. I need to keep a distance to protect them", Hans argues desperately.

"That's bullshit", Troy grumbles, but the German Captain shakes his head vehemently. "Troy, you have never lived in Nazi Germany as I have and you have not witnessed first hand how the SS and Gestapo have become more and more bold to go after anybody, including military officers such as myself. Believe me that I know what I'm talking about when I wish to protect those I care about!" Sam studies his haggard and bruised face closely, before nodding. "I know that you honestly care, Dietrich. So what can we do?" "I've done my utmost to plead for the children to be taken to a safe place. And with Lieutenant O'Donnell I can only appeal to her reason to not ask for a closer relationship that would only put her in danger. I've already lost one woman I love because of being too closely connected to me. I don't want this to ever happen again", the skinny Captain argues with actual torment in his tone. Troy can truly empathize with the haunted young officer. Hans Dietrich has gone through hell to end up where he is now and not only received physical scars reminding of his ordeal, but also psychological ones. Pushing the traumatised German too much has not ended well in the past, so he decides to strategize with Jack, before making the next move. Moffit is the smart one who will come up with a good idea to help their mutual friend. "I get it, Captain. Let's get you some breakfast for now. Then the world looks brighter again", Sam proposes as a peace offer. Ari's world immediately looks brighter at the mentioning of breakfast, while Hans smiles wryly at the boy, before agreeing with the American Sergeant: "I apparently still have much to learn from your carefree attitude, Troy." Grinning widely, Sam pats him on the good shoulder which makes the skinny German officer wince, after the massage has made his whole shoulder belt sore.

The Rats are waiting for them in front of the mess hall, lurking like the members of a street gang, an impression which mainly originates from Pettigrew and the O'Donnells. Hitchcock kneels as he scratches Fritz's belly who enjoys the cuddles, until he jumps to his paws to greet his master. "Braver Hund, Fritz. Sitz!", Dietrich praises and orders him to sit after scratching his loyal unit mascot behind the ears. "Our loyal guardian of home and hearth has found its way to us as well, Captain", Jack Moffit reports, holding a purring Bastet in his arms who plays with the buttons of his uniform. "After demanding my pyjamas and stealing my pillow you are most welcome to take care of her for the next night, Doctor", Hans declares dryly. "I told you you're too soft-hearted for your own good, Captain", Troy comments with a grin, petting the panting Fritz over the head after eyeing the kitten distrustfully.

Dietrich briefly scowls at Troy, before turning to the others. "Good morning, gentlemen. I hope you all find your accommodations well fitting and adequate." "It's better than sleeping in the sand", Sam comments dryly. "But I'd feel better knowing we can provide you with some backup." The German Captain shakes his head wearily. "I have no need for being guarded or hounded, Troy. I appreciate your concern, but it is unnecessary. Captain Boggs lives right next to me and can provide me with support should the need arise." "Like borrowing you a shirt?", Moffit inquires dryly. "This one's obviously not yours, Captain. I could offer to lend you something, if you are in dire need." The proud young officer has tensed slightly, but reminds himself that the British Sergeant bears no ill intent, as he replies after a calming breath: "Thank you, Moffit. I hope to receive at least one of my uniforms back from the laundry today. Recalling the last time I was seen with a British uniform shirt and the tumult resulting from it, I would not even dream about repeating this." Jack smiles and nods in agreement. "An absolutely understandable attitude, old chap. It was merely a friendly offer." "I know and I appreciate it", Hans mutters, before letting his gaze wander over the rest of the men.

"I suppose you still owe me a report of the events in the field hospital yesterday evening", the German Captain addresses the O'Donnells and Hitchcock. The young American Private blushes vividly, while the Australians share knowing grins which proves that the report is about to become just as entertaining as Hans would have predicted. "This blond angel is a demon in disguise, a true fury like in Ancient Greek Mythology", Hitch laments. "We told you so, Hitch, you stubborn idiot!", Troy admonishes him sternly. "I know, Sarge. I just couldn't imagine such a woman existed", Mark whimpers despondently, while Troy and Dietrich exchange amused glances. "Don't tell me you finally met the woman not only immune to your charms, Private, but also resolute enough to try and dissuade you from your morally dubious ways!", Hans comments dryly. "And all that in spite of our warnings that exactly this would happen." "I'm sorry, Cap. I'm never gonna doubt your and Sarge's word again", Hitch promises desperately. "That's the spirit", Sam agrees. "What did that amazon do to you? Chew you out whole?" Mark blushes vividly. "She caught me and Lisa kissing and ... about to start a little bit more", Mark admits. "She was livid. She dragged me to the feet grabbing my ear and gave me a moral sermon in words I've never heard before." The young Private blushes vividly at the memory, rubbing his left ear. "Also she gave me penal duty for the rest of December... as soon as my arm's out of the cask. And I must report to her daily for my checkups."

Dietrich smiles with amusement. "Maybe I should send you all to the Major for behavioural training." "Please, Captain Sherlock. We can be really nice and well-behaved. That won't be necessary", Kevin O'Donnell pleads with him unexpectedly. "I'm willing to give you the benefit of the doubt", Hans replies dryly. "But I will keep this option in mind. Did you two draw the Major's wrath as well?" "She gave us quite the tongue-lashing, Captain, before we could even explain that we're Deirdre's cousins", Danny admits sheepishly. "I see that the Rat Patrol has finally found its master", the young German officer assesses dryly. "You're far too good-hearted to throw us to this harpy, Captain", Troy counters. "We're friends after all and you're too noble and honorable to sell out your friends like this." "Don't bet on it, Troy, if you overstep my bounds!", Dietrich comments with irony. "You can't be serious. She's a monster", Troy growls. "Don't be ridiculous, Troy. She's the head nurse. Major Timberlake has a fierce manner of dealing with unruly soldiers, but is absolutely justified with everything she demands", the young German Captain rises in the woman's defence, only too well aware of the necessity for such a manner of dealing with stubborn, misbehaved soldiers.

As Riku Gottschlich is the only one obviously absent and he has not joined them during their conversation, worry about him makes Dietrich scowl as he inquires: "Where is Corporal Gottschlich?" Tully shrugs, before replying: "Went to the loo a while ago. Haven't seen him since." With a frown the German Captain orders: "If he doesn't show up again during breakfast, start searching for him!" "Sure, Cap", Pettigrew declares and the others agree as well. "And keep me informed!", Dietrich adds, remembering the Rats' affinity for absurd schemes and ideas. "We'll let you know what we're doing, Captain", Moffit assures him. "Thank you, gentlemen", Hans replies, as he puts his arm on Ari's shoulder, leading the orphan to come along with him. "You can't carry anything, can you, Dietrich?", Troy grumbles, as he follows them along. "Lieutenant O'Donnell advised me not to strain my shoulder", the German Captain replies grimly. "I'm fine with helping my friends along", the American Sergeant declares, walking straight to the food dispense station along with them. Ari happily accepts a bowl with porridge to carry, while Sam takes the rest of their food. Fritz, with his unmistakable instinct for where to receive something fresh, follows along and befuddles the soldiers at the station with his big pleading brown eyes.

As the three reach the officer's table, Troy places down the tablet at an empty seat next to Boggs, telling the older Captain nonchalantly: "You were right about the hospital. Thanks." The older Captain looks a bit surprised, but nods. "Thank you for your support, Sergeant Troy", Dietrich tells him with due formality, as he sees the other officers at the table eye them strangely, especially Major Fisher who observes them with a bemused expression. "You're welcome, Captain. Enjoy you breakfast", Sam replies, patting the younger man on the shoulder, before he turns back to return to the rest of their men. Ari takes a seat next to Boggs at Dietrich's gentle nudging, leaning against the German Captain's side however, as he eyes the unknown men seated at the table with fear. "Nobody will hurt you, Ari", Hans tries to reassure him. "That's Ari ben Levi", the American Major mutters and Dietrich focuses a stern gaze on him, curtly confirming: "Yes, Major." Alexander McLean, who has observed them from a distance, gets up to meet them as well.

Dietrich's scowl turns even more wary immediately, as soon as he sees the Scottish spymaster. "Good morning", he greets the man nonetheless, keeping up appearances not only for formalities' sake, but also because he has been brought up to treat his superiors with politeness. "I look forward to getting to know your unit, Captain. We will meet you then either today in the afternoon or tomorrow to discuss how to proceed, which training you and your men shall receive for which type of missions." McLean notices that the German officer has never taken his arm from around the Jewish orphan's shoulder who nestles against his side in a trusting manner he has already observed on the previous day. If they would not look so vastly different and he would not know the boy's background, he would suspect that they are related by blood. Knowing that they are not he can only consider the young Captain's behaviour all the more admirable, as he fends for the child as if he were his own son. "I still need to prepare a few things for today, but I will meet you later, Captain Dietrich", the Scotsman declares jovially, before approaching his co-interviewer's table.

"Moin, moin, Hans", Jakob greets his friend yawning slightly. Hans smiles back, as does Ari. "Moin, Jakob. Did you enjoy sleeping on a new pillow? Bastet demanded mine and slept on top of it", Hans replies with a joking tone. "That cat is a pillow murdering menace", the Jewish Lieutenant grumbles. "I'm so glad the kitten is not in my room anymore." "But Bastet is nice", Ari protests. "But she is still a baby and doesn't know how to behave. Therefore she does a lot of things wrong like you did, when you were younger", his brother explains gently, as he starts to eat his breakfast. The Jewish orphan considers this, then nods. "Adva always knocked everything over, when she was little", he confirms from observing his younger sister. "When Bastet is grown, she will behave, but only if we teach her now. That's why I must be so strict", the German Captain explains gently. "You're nice, Hans, not loud or scary like Abba or Troy", Ari assures him, hugging his brother in a trusting manner. Dietrich gently pats the boy's head, then returns to his breakfast.

"Report to me, once you had your meeting with Lieutenant Colonel McLean, Dietrich", Boggs addresses the younger officer, when he stands up to leave for the day after some smalltalk. "I will, Captain Boggs", the German Captain replies diligently. "Take your time for today and really try to relax! Your men can also have their time off, once they have finished their interviews", Boggs offers. "Thank you. I will let them know", Hans replies calmly. Once Boggs has left and he has finished his breakfast, he turns to Ari. "I will have a lot to do today. Until I know what will happen, you stay with David Troy and the nurses during the day", he explains gently and patiently. "Can I see you then, Hans?", Ari asks, looking close to tears. "I will meet you before dinner, Ari. I promise you that", his caregiver replies with empathy. "Jakob, could you lead him to the hospital, please? I need to arrange things with my unit before the interviews", the young Captain addresses his friend who nods in understanding. "Of course, Hans. If you hand me your keys, I can also take care of moving Ari's cot and things to my room." Dietrich smiles and nods gratefully, trusting his friend blindly to take care of everything. "Take care of it right away, please, as I need the room for meeting with my men in private. You can leave the key on the nightstand."

After leaving Ari in Jakob's care who rushes off to hire aid for moving Ari's bed, Hans turns toward the table with his men. When he spots Riku Gottschlich, the German Captain breathes a silent sigh of relief that they do not have to start searching for him. "I see that you made your return, Corporal. Are you alright?" To his surprise Gottschlich pales slightly at the greeting and tenses visibly. "I ... I'm fine, Captain." Any of them can tell that he is anything but fine, but none of them points it out openly, as the young officer addresses him in a calm tone: "We will talk about arrangements for the training right after breakfast, Corporal. You will accompany me to my room for that. Moffit, I suggest that you are the next after the Corporal for planning language lessons, unless you are already otherwise occupied." Moffit shakes his head. "I'm not, Captain. My interview with the General is the last one before noon." "I drew the short straw and gotta talk with the brass right after breakfast", Troy grumbles. "Almost spoiled my appetite." "Some Scottish Lieutenant Colonel invited me for an interview in the afternoon", Daniel O'Donnel, while his brother looks actually nervous, as he mutters: "You're lucky. I have to talk with Monty himself. I mean... he's so high up the ranks I can't even imagine what he wants from a fellow like me." "Don't sing any rebel songs, Kev!", his brother advises. "Sound advice", Hans comments dryly.

Then, he turns back to the young Australian: "If it is Lieutenant Colonel McLean who will interview you ..." Danny nods at this point, while the German Captain continues: "I was interrogated by him yesterday along with the whole leading officers corps here in the Tobruk headquarters. Conduct yourself properly and appropriately for a soldier of his Majesty and otherwise be honest and precise! And for all of you I want to set the ground rule: Don't annoy the Generalfieldmarschal with unnecessary blabbering or any uncalled for comments!" The young German focuses his stern gaze on Hitchcock and then Troy. "Okay, Cap", Kevin replies and Dietrich immediately narrows his eyes, as he growls: "Not you as well." "I really like the abbreviation to show you're our Captain and we like you", Kevin explains sheepishly. "You don't have to adopt all of Hitchcock's bad habits, just because you're thick as thieves now", the German officer replies with sarcasm. "I can stay with Captain Sherlock, if you like this better", Kevin offers with a smile at which the lean Captain merely pinches his nose, giving up on the idea of ever winning against the Rats.

"Riku and I also have to report to Montgomery in the afternoon", Thomas Anaru adds, "but Tully and Hitch have to speak with him in the morning as well." Dietrich nods in acceptance of the information. "Thank you. So you have all been invited for interviews." "I believe that this Lieutenant Colonel McLean even wanted to speak with your friend Jakob and Troy's brother David", Jack Moffit adds at which Sam growls: "Damned nosy brass. Who's that McLean guy?" "His codename is Merlin which I frankly have never heard before. He is considered some kind of spymaster, handling the really secret operations", Dietrich explains, looking wary himself. Troy grumbles: "Never heard of that guy. I don't trust fishy spies." "Troy", Jack Moffit protests, but Hans intercedes quietly: "You're justified with this attitude, Troy. I would advise you all to not blindly trust him. Lieutenant Colonel McLean has his own agenda which nobody knows beside him and somebody of this rank successfully operating spying operations without becoming widely known in any manner, has to be excellent at lying and concealing his true intentions. I wouldn't trust him either, but we will have to cooperate with him and his spy network from what I have been told." Troy mutters a few profanities in English and Greek at the last announcement, while the others look worried.

"So, we stay nice with him, Cap?", Hitch asks, sounding worried as well. Sighing wearily, Dietrich nods. "Yes, we behave ourselves as best we can to not draw even more attention than we already do", Hans points out, as he can make out countless men at the surrounding tables observing them closely with curiosity and wariness. "We'll do our best, Captain. Kia kaha, fellows. We'll stand strong and do this well", Thomas Anaru promises earnestly and the others immediately provide similar assurances. "Thank you, gentlemen. I trust in all of you, as I wouldn't serve with you otherwise", their young commanding officer assures them honestly. "Don't worry, Captain. We'll handle that together with you", Troy agrees. "Let's shake it, boys. Make our Captain proud!" Hans smiles earnestly at this declaration, nodding to his Sergeant in a silent gesture of gratitude, before turning to Riku Gottschlich. "Come with me, Corporal! We will speak in my room. Jakob should hopefully be finished with moving Ari's cot to his room by now." Gotty eagerly follows his idol whom he clings to more than ever, not even noticing when Dietrich exchanges a long worried gaze with Moffit before leaving.

While Hans Dietrich leads Riku Gottschlich to his room, observing the young Corporal with concern, Sam Troy reports to General Montgomery's office where he is already annoyed, as he is left waiting for fifteen minutes, before the senior officer's aide, a freckled English Lieutenant who assesses the American Sergeant's appearance with a disparaging gaze, comes out to lead him inside. "You dare to appear in such a state of uniform in front of the Generalfieldmarshal?", the officer inquires in a nasal tone, applying a derogatory tone and turning up his nose at the smell. Troy looks down at his uniform, as he growls his protest: "It's fresh and it's totally not my fault that we can only use gasoline for washing out the stains, while we're crossing the desert." The British Lieutenant looks at him, as if he was a particularly loathsome type of vermin, but finally leads him into the General's office, where he takes his position at a desk to write the protocol. Next to General Montgomery whom Troy recognizes from his photographs in the news sits the tall officer who has sat at the dinner table with Dietrich yesterday. Apparently, he is the spymaster McLean and Sam vows to be careful around that guy. His overly jovial smile already makes him suspicious.

"You are originally from Wyoming. Nonetheless, you volunteered for the Australian army and joined the LRDP more than one year ago, before changing from your Australian to an American subunit. Could you please explain why you did this, Sergeant Troy?", the Scotsman inquires with a drawl. The combination of Montgomery and McLean questioning him in such a manner is enough to drive Sam insane within five minutes, as Sergeant Troy experiences one unnerving situation after the other, already annoyed by their formal manner of conducting the whole interrogation. If he would not do this for Dietrich, he would just stand up and tell the arrogant British brass just where to shove their idiotic questions which include countless formalities far beyond proving his identity that Troy considers an utter waste of precious time. Why he has emigrated to Australia or that he is widowed is none of their damned business. "Sergeant Troy", the tall Scotsman with the lurking gaze Sam does not trust in the least addresses him, "Captain Dietrich has told us that you were the one who wanted to make him part of your unit, not the other way around. Why would you wish a former Wehrmacht officer you crossed blades with on countless occasions to become your commanding officer?" Troy glares at him angrily for the impertinence of even asking such a moronic question. "The Captain stood with his back against the wall. Atkins..." "General Atkins", Montgomery corrects him sternly which makes Troy's angry gaze focus on him briefly, before he growls: "General Atkins wanted to place him with some random commando unit who'd never have trusted and likely killed him. He'd been tortured enough by the SS. Taking him in only to get him killed is not what Dietrich deserved."

"Captain Dietrich", the British General pronounces the title purposefully, "was and is an officer of superior rank to any of the men of your unit. You must have been aware that you assigned all of you under the command of your former worst enemy. Why did you do this, Sergeant?" Sam looks close to exploding, as he grits out: "I've known Captain Dietrich for a whole year. The man's been honorable and reliable even toward his enemies and would never go back on his given word. I knew he cared about his men, as he frequently insisted on keeping them safe, even putting himself at risk for them. My gut feeling said having a decent and reliable guy who's also smart and competent along with us wouldn't hurt us. I had no idea the Captain wasn't just a good man, but a really good officer as well. I'd only seen him from the perspective of being his enemy." The two British officers exchange exasperated glances, before Montgomery addresses the American Sergeant with a stern, yet slightly incredulous tone: "So, you basically acted on intuition rather than strategic thought, when you asked to get Captain Dietrich assigned with your unit, Sergeant Troy?" Troy grins widely. "Yeah. That worked pretty well for me until now, Lieutenant Colonel. And our Captain's been a lottery prize." "Yankees", the Scottish officer mutters to the Generalfieldmarshal who snorts briefly. "Unbelievable. No discipline and such an attitude. How are we supposed to win a war with such allies?"

Turning back to the glaring black haired Sergeant, McLean inquires: "You called Captain Dietrich a lottery prize. Could you elaborate on your impression of him as your commanding officer?" Troy starts his explanation: "Our Captain's the best officer I've ever served under. He's really good at his actual job, clever and smart, but not arrogant. When Boggs..." "Captain Boggs", McLean reminds him and the Sergeant glares at the annoying man. He already hates every minute with him, before they have even started working with him. Just why does fate hate him so much to condemn him to suffer through arrogant, smartass British brass? Growling with annoyance, Troy continues: "When Captain Boggs was wounded, Captain Dietrich" - he pronounces the title purposefully now - "stepped in. He was close to collapsing himself several times, gave his own blood to save Jack's life, Sergeant Moffit's, but still did the best job I've ever seen, gaining respect from the Lieutenants who distrusted and hated him just a day after changing sides. By the time he handed over command again, everyone in camp respected him." "That is an impressive feat", the Scotsman admits. "Is there anything else you would wish to tell us, Sergeant?"

"Sure, there's more than enough", Troy answers straight away. "Captain Dietrich's also been smart and never too arrogant to listen to our suggestions and even ask for our advice, when he wouldn't know the way things are handled in our army or recognizing that we have more experience with some areas whether it's Jack Moffit with his whole bunch of languages and small clever inputs for just about anything here in the desert or Tully Pettigrew for handling the Jeeps and technical equipment. The Captain listened to my advice for commando strategies and if he wouldn't take it, he'd tell me why. That's a manner of working I can respect. You know yourselves that the Captain's got real savvy for languages. He speaks just about anything from German to Arabic, definitely more languages than anyone I've ever met before except for Jack Moffit and he's the kid of a British College Professor. But most importantly, the Captain's honorable, self-less and loyal to his men to the bone. He's risked his own life before any of ours every single time to the point I started to worry and had to watch his back to keep him alive, not cause I was worried he'd act against us", Sam provides his praise without pausing to take a breath, lest they interrupt him with more idiotic questions, before he is finished with presenting what a noble man his friend actually is.

"We could observe some interactions which speak of actual personal sympathy between the Captain and his men. Could you explain how this has come to pass, Sergeant?", McLean asks directly. "The Captain is the most compassionate brass I've ever known. Back when he was with the Jerries he negotiated a truce just to save a girl - actually that's Kiri. Her mother recognized him from back then and trusted him with her daughter. And she was totally right. The Captain is the guy I'd trust with my own kid as well, if I had one. When we got him out of the fort where the SS had tortured him almost to death and met the kid Ari, we were all speechless, as the boy hugged him, trusting him completely. I tell you that the Captain was just as dumbstruck as the rest of us. Still, he asked us to save the boy and the Jewish kid clung to him like he really trusted him fully, though he was a German officer still. The Captain didn't ask for anything for himself after we got him out, but he wanted the boy saved and sold himself to get our help for saving his men. I hadn't realized that he risked his own life by going back to the Jerries as a condemned traitor, but his Lieutenant and his whole unit trusted him enough to still listen to his orders, nevermind what the SS had spoken as a sentence. That's an officer who really cares about his men, his Jerries as well as us. He put his life on the line, but he also sat down with any of us, whenever we needed an open ear and even if we didn't realize we needed it. I had no idea that was part of an officer's duty till Diet... Captain Dietrich told me so. He even listened to my life story and in spite of being annoyed as hell with Davey and me he did all that he could to help me to come to terms with my Dietrich, has definitely proven to be a good and loyal friend and CO."

"You consider the Captain your friend?", the Scotsman asks sternly, while the General looks scandalized by the notion. "He definitely is, nevermind how much he resisted against this idea, arguing with proper behaviour, military rules and what not. He looked just as scandalized as you, when I first asked him. Still he gave me a probation to prove whether it's a good or bad idea", Troy argues with conviction. "This is most inappropriate, Sergeant Troy ", the older British General announces with clear annoyance. "We didn't regret this since, well I surely didn't and the Captain hasn't revoked our friendship either, even confirming that there was no way back. I surely stand by my friend and won't let him down!", Sam growls with a menacing tone, daring them to challenge him. "We have no intention of harming you or your friend, Sergeant. We simply wonder how such an extraordinary friendship would come to pass", McLean intervenes diplomatically. "The Captain and I had already been chained together for two days and nobody but each other to rely on to escape from slavers and the desert itself. It gives you an insight into the others character and connects you with more than just a chain", Troy replies earnestly. "I thought that Private Hitchcock had been caught by slavers together with Captain Dietrich", McLean counters, actually confused. "I'm talking 'bout times, when the Captain still was a loyal Jerry officer", Sam replies. "As I said, I knew that he was a good man to the core long before he defected or agreed to a proposal of friendship. Mediating between me and Davey was the ultimate proof for that."

"When you say Davey you speak about your brother Captain David Troy, the former pilot of the Royal Air Force who went back to the U.S. army?", McLean asks for clarification. "Yeah", Troy confirms. "Your brother has not only asked to change the army, but also to become part of your unit. Captain Dietrich was involved in this?", Montgomery asks sternly. "Davey pleaded with Dietrich", Troy starts out and sees that they are about to interrupt him, correcting himself quickly: "Captain Dietrich, sorry. I told you that he's honorable and compassionate. Even though Davey cost him his last nerves, the Captain still presented his case in the noble manner that's his style. Atkins ... General Atkins assigned David with us which is a really lousy reward for a totally selfless deed." "Military assignments are not about rewards, Sergeant", Montgomery growls unnerved. "I will speak with your brother, Captain Troy, later to confirm your statements and gain insight into his perspective", the Scottish spymaster declares, but continues his interview with Sergeant Troy. "Now let's talk some more about your experiences with Captain Dietrich and his style of command. We have several reports here on which we would ask for your insights and perspective..."

Corporal Riku Gottschlich enters the room behind Captain Dietrich with a tense posture. "Calm, Gottschlich!", the German officer addresses him with a gentle and reassuring tone he would apply for Ari, when the boy is scared. "Why are you so tense and nervous?", Hans finally dares to ask, now that they are in the privacy of his personal quarters. The half-Japanese soldier winces slightly at the words, as he stammers: "I... I..." Dietrich observes him with actual concern, as the young man struggles for words, but closes his mouth again without providing any kind of explanation. "I cannot help you, if I don't know what is haunting you, for something obviously is, Gottschlich. I hope that you know that I have no intention to harm you." Riku Gottschlich looks desperate, as he hastily declares: "I know, Captain Dietrich. I trust you and you have always treated me with fairness and empathy. I...I d..don't know how...", Gotty trails off, as he blushes vividly. "What in God's name happened, Corporal?", the lean Captain asks incredulously. The younger man shivers slightly, before he whispers: "I...I mustn't t..tell you. Or they w..will t..treat me even w..worse." Now Dietrich looks perplexed, before he growls with an angry expression: "Who will treat you worse? I expect an honest answer, Corporal Gottschlich." The half-Japanese Corporal looks intimidated, as he whimpers: "S...Sergeant C..Clarence and t..two men from my old unit."

"How and when did you come across them?", the German officer asks sternly. "I ..I ... ran i..into them a..at the r..restrooms yesterday. They threatened me. I honestly didn't do anything to provoke them", Gottschlich whimpers with obvious desperation. "If Sergeant Troy or any of the others hear about this, they will not let you out of their sight and support you in any way", Dietrich argues calmly, trying to reassure the young soldier. "P..Please, C..Captain D..Dietrich. They will c..come after me, whenever n..nobody from o..our unit is there to protect me", Gottschlich pleads, as he shivers with fear. "You're part of our unit. You know that we stand together and won't let you down", the German Captain insists vehemently. "But Sergeant Troy will cause a fight and then everyone will hate me", Gottschlich argues desperately enough to recover from his stammering. "I see how Sergeant Troy acting rashly can be a source for worry, but that is no reason for not trusting us to ask for our help and support", the tall officer counters calmly, cautiously placing a hand on the younger man's shoulder in a reassuring gesture. "I swear to you that we will not let you down, Corporal. I will try to find out who Sergeant Clarence's superior is and have a word with him. I assume he is among the reasons why you landed in North Africa?" Gottschlich nods silently, leaning into the touch after his first urge to withdraw. "Yes, he is. Please, Captain, don't make them more angry with me!" Dietrich bears a stern expression, as he declares: "Corporal Gottschlich, you fail to understand that it is my duty to support and protect my men in any way I can. If I were to allow those thugs to continue harassing you, I would fail in my duty miserably." Gottschlich looks mortified, as he whispers: "B..But nobody can help me."

"This is unacceptable. We're all soldiers and the chain of command still applies, even to those men. Keep one of the Rats always with you, Gottschlich, to have a kind of backup and protection!", the German Captain advises calmly. "I will try to clear the situation on a different level of the hierarchy. And whatever rumors they are trying to disseminate, I know you and your character and won't punish you for something which isn't your fault." Gottschlich looks close to tears, as he stammers: "You're the best officer I've ever known, Captain Dietrich." "I'm only honoring my duty, Corporal", Dietrich assures him earnestly. "Which includes protecting my men from such struggles." "Domo arigatou gozaimasu. I cannot thank you enough, Captain", Riku takes the young German by surprise with his emphatic statement in Japanese and his deep bow. "It means 'Thank you' in a formal setting like speaking with my superior officer, Captain", the young half-Japanese Corporal explains sheepishly upon seeing the lean Captain's puzzled expression. "Maybe we should include some Japanese in our language courses, since this is an active battlefield as well and we have no idea where the U.S. army intends to send us", Hans assesses with a professional tone, although an honest smile forms around his lips. "At least Sergeant Moffit and I would be interested in learning your mother's language from you, Corporal, if you're willing to teach us." Gottschlich bows deeply after staring at the bruised young officer's face for a few seconds with incredulity. "Of course, I'm willing, Captain. Nobody has ever wanted to learn this or considered my heritage anything but strange or dangerous. I'm really grateful for everything."

"We will get you through this, Corporal. Trust us! Neither Sergeant Troy and Moffit nor I have any intentions to leave you alone with your struggles", Dietrich repeats calmly, before adding: "And now we should finally focus on what we have originally come to discuss, establishing a regular training schedule for your fighting style, karate." Riku bows again slightly and nods. "How often do you want to train, Captain?" "At least every second day, ideally every day in order to truly improve fast enough. It will also be a good physical exercise for everybody and taking an opponent by surprise through applying unusual techniques in hand to hand or melee combat can mean the difference between life and death. Therefore, I want everybody to participate at least as far as possible given the wounds and injuries of some of our unit members", Dietrich argues and Gottschlich subconsciously stares at his right shoulder, sympathizing with the gravely injured officer who has nonetheless participated in all his training lessons until now to the best of his abilities. With his left side, Captain Dietrich is by far the most talented of them all, maybe because of his constant necessity to use his off-hand instead of his main arm during the last weeks.

"Which techniques should we focus on?", Riku asks diligently. "Defensive as well as offensive arm techniques are the best for general application, but also some of your foot attacks or blocks, because they are the most unusual, even if they are probably not ideal to perform with our boots and equipment, as you explained to us before", Hans replies right away, since he has given the training schedules some thought already during the last days. Gottschlich salutes diligently. If only the rest of the Rats could try to follow his example of proper soldierly behaviour a little bit, the German Captain muses. But that will likely never happen and he is pragmatic enough not to waste his energy with lost battles, but focus on what has an actual chance of working out, like fighting training, language lessons and possibly some education in some of the subtle techniques of spywork, though Dietrich will have to choose his men very carefully for the different areas of training.

A knock on the door startles Gottschlich, but his commanding officer has expected Jack Moffit to arrive soon. When he opens the door, Bastet is the first to enter the room again, rubbing her head and back against his shins and meowing, as she demands her cuddles. Bending down with a smile, Dietrich scratches her head, after briefly greeting Moffit. The British scholar is also reliable to understand his nonverbal communication, since he has brought Tully Pettigrew with him who leans against the wall nonchalantly, chewing on his matchstick, only nodding to his Captain briefly in greeting. "I suppose we're done with our planning for now, Corporal Gottschlich. I can only arrange an actual schedule, once I have been informed by Lieutenant Colonel McLean about what he intends to train us in and when", Hans addresses the young half-Japanese soldier, as he stands up again, although Bastet glares at him accusatorily, since she has just let herself drop onto his boot. Ignoring the kitten's discontent, the German advises calmly: "I suggest that you trust in Private Pettigrew to provide you with support which I am sure he will give you without hesitation. Speak with Sergeant Troy and the others, once he is back from his interview! And good luck for your own interview. I trust that you will perform excellently, Corporal Gottschlich, and so will you Pettigrew after dropping this matchstick and buttoning your shirt." Gotty smiles at Dietrich with honest admiration for his mentor, trusting the young Captain fully. Meeting his gaze with a surprised looking Tully the thin German officer waits for the brief nod of acknowledgement which he returns. Hans trusts Pettigrew that he is smart enough to understand an order, even if he wraps it into a friendly suggestion. The couth appearing Private from Kentucky is among those with actual affinity for the more subtle ways of spywork and Dietrich has already deemed him a good candidate for certain types of duties. Gottschlich bows one last time to Dietrich, as he passes him by, when leaving the room. Tully shifts his matchstick and quietly mutters: "I'll look after the kid, Cap."

"One last thing, before you go, Pettigrew", Hans remembers to ask him, "do you have one of your iron rations with you?" Tully looks perplexed for all of a second, before he starts rummaging through one of his belt pouches, as he mutters: "You're that hungry, Cap?" The German smiles wryly. "It's not for me, but important for our missions." Tully shrugs and takes out a can of corned beef which he hands to the Captain who inspects it briefly and then nods. "Thank you, Pettigrew. I know I can rely on you in this regard." Then he deposits the can in one of his own belt pouches, while the Kentuckian tells Riku Gottschlich: "Come along, Gotty. Gotta show you some things around." Bastet finally loses her patience as Hans lets Jack enter the room and meows loudly. With a sigh the German officer picks the stubborn kitten up and holds her in his left arm, petting her gently with his right, although his muscles protest slightly against the movement. "Thank you, Watson. You have excellently deduced my intentions", he tells the British Sergeant earnestly, as their two soldiers leave at which Jack smiles widely. "You're welcome, my dear Holmes. We were all worried. Do you know what plagues Corporal Gottschlich?" Hans nods and sighs wearily as he continues petting the loudly purring Bastet who snuggles against his chest now. "Some members of his old unit, among them a Sergeant Clarence, harassed him before, leading to his involuntary transfer to North Africa as penal duty. Apparently, he met them again yesterday and they started threatening and harassing him again." Jack Moffit nods with understanding. "I see. Why do they go after him?" Dietrich bares his teeth, as he growls with frustration: "He's a half-Japanese with a German surname. I can imagine perfectly well how such prejudice and discrimination works." The British Sergeant nods. "I'm sorry. It was a stupid question. I should've known that Riku is not the type to provoke people or cause active troubles or fights."

The German Captain snorts with wry amusement. "Yes. The poor man landed in the worst possible unit for somebody of his attitude, maybe with the exception of Anaru and you, only because he has little chance of being treated without prejudices by any other officer or so he believes." "I see why he's willing to do anything for you, Captain, at least as much as the rest of us", Jack assesses quietly. "I need you to protect him from the harassment of his former unit members", Hans sidesteps reacting to the statement. "Inform Troy and the others of what I told you and make sure that one of you always accompanies him, Moffit! And also keep an eye on Private Anaru. He's even more vulnerable, since he has lost the community and protection of his all Maori unit and I can imagine that he will not be treated fairly by everyone at this base either." Jack nods and reaches out to pet Bastet over the head as well. "Rest assured, Captain, that we will keep our comrades protected as best we can. Whatever Troy's or my own attitude toward some people might be, he'll fight like a lion, if anybody dares to attack someone under his protection and I also have no intention of betraying my comrades in arms." Dietrich smiles wryly. "I'm well aware of that and grateful. Gottschlich was afraid though that Troy would cause him more troubles by starting unnecessary fights which is not an unwarranted kind of worry. This is why I trust you, Moffit, to be the voice of reason and hold Troy and the others back, before they act with their usual shortsighted recklessness."

Jack meets the younger man's gaze who is absolutely serious and honest about his statement. "I'm honored by your trust, Captain. I have to warn you though that you're the voice of reason Troy is more likely to listen to than me." "Then keep me informed, should he rush off to do something stupid so that I have the chance to act as this, Sergeant! I want neither Troy nor Gottschlich or any of the others to suffer because of this. Hitchcock has already earned himself penal duty and it will only be a matter of time before the same applies to Troy as well and possibly Pettigrew and the O'Donnels who are magnets for trouble en par with the rest of you", Hans assesses wearily. "You're a good and loyal officer and friend, old chap, to not let us down in spite of all that. You can trust that I'll keep you informed for all our sakes", Jack promises, knowing that the German officer would not move against his men to get them caught in misdeeds and assign them additional penal duties, but truly wants to protect them. Bastet has finally decided that she wants to be set down and continue exploring her reign, which Dietrich does, as she starts wiggling on his arm.

"Regarding our original purpose of arranging language lessons, Doctor", Hans addresses the former Cambridge scholar, following the kitten and rescuing his satchel, before she can climb into it again. This time he finally places it in the cupboard and intends to close the door. But Bastet is faster and quickly moves in to explore this exciting new part of her territory. "Our little guardian of home and hearth should hopefully protect you from rat problems in the future", Jack comments with a smile, as he observes the young officer's struggle. Dietrich smiles wryly. "If only that were true, Moffit. She might keep the small vermin at bay along with Fritz, but there are not enough deities in the Egyptian pantheon to control Troy." Moffit chuckles with amusement. "Touché, Captain. I appreciate these witty banters, although Troy would likely call us European snobs by now." "Luckily, he isn't here", the German declares. "But we cannot spare him basic German lessons, as they all need to learn to understand frequently used commands or phrases of their enemies. For the majority I would consider focusing on understanding spoken language, rather than having them speak actively themselves, as there is no way that their accent will not be obvious immediately." Jack nods. "I have to admit that my German is not as flawless as your English in that regard, since your accent is only rarely audible. But I would appreciate, if you could help and correct me in this respect." Dietrich nods. "Speaking is only reasonable to train for you and Gottschlich, since you have the highest skill in the language and best chances of actually interacting. The Corporal also agreed to teach both of us the basics of Japanese along with anybody else interested." Moffit smiles widely, as his eyes lighten up with enthusiasm. "That's brilliant, Captain. I can't wait."

The German Captain looks mildly amused by his joy. "I thought that you would be happy and appreciate it, unlike the rest of them. We cannot arrange actual schedules though, before I have spoken with Lieutenant Colonel McLean in this regard which should be today after the interviews or tomorrow. I suppose three lessons per week should be reasonable to not forget regularly repeated vocabulary and allow a fast enough progress with the language." Jack Moffit is all business, as he replies: "An excellent plan, Captain. I can only agree. Lessons every day would likely drive them crazy, but every second day is frequent enough for repetition and progress." The skinny young officer nods, before asking: "Do you consider any other aspects of your vast knowledge and skills relevant to teach the men?" "I'd say that you have the far more interesting skills to teach, Captain. Maybe the O'Donnel brothers or Thomas Anaru would be actually interested and talented to learn some of your sleight of hand skills or picking locks", Jack suggests. "Card tricks are hardly something relevant for our missions, but inconspicuously removing something from a pocket or a well-observed place is an actual asset for spywork in addition to gaining access to locked areas", the German Captain admits albeit grudgingly. "I doubt I'm good enough for teaching anybody though, as I would require further training myself in this regard." "You're too modest, old chap", the British Sergeant comments with a smile. "No, Moffit. I'm realistic. This is the type of skill where you have to be truly competent and failure is not an option, since you are far too close to your enemies to avoid detection otherwise." Moffit nods. "You're right. The stakes are actually higher than if you miss when shooting an automatic gun which is why we leave this to a cautious and competent fellow such as you."

The younger officer assesses him briefly, but comes to the conclusion that Moffit has no intention to mock him. "I would like you to accompany me to meet somebody, Moffit. Consider it the first step toward sharing some of my ... what did you call them, more interesting skills." Jack looks curious, but eagerly agrees to the proposal. "Bastet, komm raus, sonst muss ich dich hier einsperren", Hans tells the kitten that he would have to lock her in, if she does not come out now, as he picks her up to take her out of his cupboard, after putting on Captain Brown's Australian bush hat. "Meow", the little cat protests, when he hands her to the British Sergeant to lock his room's door. "Ich weiß, dass du lieber da drinnen spielen und schlafen würdest, aber mein Zimmer ist kein Katzenklo", Dietrich admonishes her that although he knows she would prefer to play and sleep in there, he does not wish his room to be abused as a litter box. Jack releases the wiggly kitten after a few steps, when she darts off toward the stairs, where she waits for them, staring down with some fear. "I get the impression that Bastet is afraid of heights", Hans tells the Englishman. "You might be right. I have never seen her jumping down from anywhere or climbing up on anything before", Moffit agrees, as he picks the kitten up to carry her down the stairs. "Maybe she'll overcome it, when she gets older." "We'll see", the German mutters quietly, as he descends alongside him.

Mark Hitchcock meanwhile waits nervously, until a British officer finally leads Sam Troy out of the Generalfieldmarshal's office. Sarge looks like he has just had a serious confrontation with one of his least favourite Jerry opponents, bearing a murderous expression that does not bode well for Hitch's interview. "Private Hitchcock?", a freckled British Lieutenant asks in a nasal tone, as he measures him from head to toe and visibly declares him lacking. "That's me", Mark replies with a toothy grin, quickly swallowing his chewing gum, while Sarge passes by him and grumbles: "Good luck, Hitch. You'll need it." "Follow me, Private!", the Lieutenant orders sternly and Hitchcock complies immediately. When he steps into the office, Mark finds himself opposite two older British officers who both observe him with stern expressions. With his broken right arm still in a sling, he considers saluting with his left, but has neither Dietrich's experience nor elegance, as both merely nod in acceptance, but appear rather unimpressed. "Take a seat, Private Hitchcock!", the Lieutenant Colonel orders with a Scottish drawl from which Hitch recognizes him as the spymaster Dietrich has warned them about. "According to your file you studied at Columbia University in New York City. Which field did you specialize in?" Hitch smiles what he considers a winning smile that leaves the two British officers rather unimpressed. "I did my major in English literature. I love poetry. My Dad would've wanted me to focus on economics though, but I really don't like that number crunching at all unlike Cap...tain Dietrich who's got savvy for maths and that stuff." "I see", McLean comments with a cryptic expression.

"Since you have already mentioned him, we would like to speak with you a bit more about Captain Dietrich, Private Hitchcock", General Montgomery tells him sternly, leaving the unnecessary topic of the young man's education. "The Captain's a brilliant officer", Hitch declares, but reigns in his enthusiastic speech, when he sees the older men glare at him for having spoken out of term. "You are one of the original members of the Rat Patrol", the British high commander states and Hitch merely nods, not daring to speak out of term again, as he remembers being scolded by the strict head nurse Major Timberlake and starts extrapolating to the Generalfieldmarshal, paling slightly at the thought. "How did you react, when Sergeant Troy told you that Captain Dietrich, the German Wehrmacht officer you had fought against for months, would not only join your unit, but also become your commanding officer, Private?", the British General wants to know. "Tully and I, I mean Private Pettigrew, Sir, thought it was a joke and we laughed really hard till we saw Sarge's face and realized it wasn't, I mean Sergeant Troy, Sir." Montgomery already looks annoyed by the American, nodding to his Scottish officer to continue with the questions.

"What was your opinion of Captain Dietrich back then?", Lieutenant Colonel McLean wants to know. Hitch shrugs, as he replies: "We didn't know much about him until Doc... I mean Sergeant Moffit... read some stuff from his SS file to us. That ... really made him, the Captain I mean, a lot more human, hearing about his parents and sister, his uncles and aunts, but most of all his cousin the Nazis had tortured and killed. When he told us that Cap...tain Dietrich is younger than me I didn't believe him, till I learned that it's actually true. When I sat at his bed in the field hospital more than once, I realised he really was no different from me, bleeding when shot and beaten black and blue underneath the uniform. Still he could keep up the intimidating scowl and I admit I was afraid of him sometimes, when he was a Jerry officer and also in the beginning when he became our CO. Until then I'd only known that Cap..tain Dietrich was pretty fair and never treated us badly, whenever he caught us, but he appeared real stern and menacing. I didn't like him or fully trust him back then, but Sarge ... Sergeant Troy ... trusted him and that was good enough for the rest of us to ... give him a chance." Both grimace at each of his abbreviations, unnerved by the Yankee's insolence to speak about his superiors in such a blatant manner. "You said 'back then'. You trust the Captain now I suppose and you apparently like the man personally from what I have observed yesterday. Why, Private?", the Scotsman asks with a lurking tone. "Captain Dietrich saved my life, twice even since he became our Captain. He jumped into a snake pit himself to get me out alive and ... well ... he protected me from those Arab raiders who really had it in for me, even taking my beating himself. It took me a while to realize that, but he's really a goodhearted guy, noble, self-less and compassionate behind his stern mask. As I told you, he's a brilliant officer", Mark replies with true conviction.

"I learned that Cap...tain Dietrich's actually a really compassionate guy too, when I saw him with his kid, Ari. I got to know the boy, when I was in the hospital for a while for the first time and saw how he treated the orphan like a little brother. It never mattered that Ari was a Jew and Cap...tain Dietrich a German officer. His friend Jakob Silberblatt is also a Jew and the Captain definitely not a Nazi. He already got into quarrels with the junior Nazis, when he was a kid himself. Well then, Ari lived with us in the same tent for weeks along with our Captain, 'cause those murderous Jerry infiltrators were out for his blood and Sarge, Sergeant Troy, wanted to protect them. I swear to you the kid loves Cap...tain Dietrich like his own brother or father and I really understand why. When Sarge and Browny, I mean Sergeant Troy and Captain Brown, saved us from the slavers, Cap... tain Dietrich took the Bedouin girl Kiri along to watch over her, as he had promised her mother. When she died ... the mother, not Kiri ... Captain Dietrich took care of the girl, consoled her, when she learned that her mother was dead, even let her cry on his shoulder. And he's taken care of the girl ever since, just because he'd never break his word ever. I know hardly anyone who'd do that and really go through with looking after the girl and letting her sleep in the same tent and all. Captain Dietrich has been comforting both kids when they cried for their dead parents or were hurt or scared. Let me tell you a bit more about the kids... Have I told you how we first met Kiri and her Mum, when the Captain was still with the Jerries? Kiri fell into a well and Sarge wanted a truce to save her..." Montgomery sighs wearily, while McLean looks like he has just won the jackpot for gaining information.

As soon as the duo of Moffit and Dietrich has reached the courtyard, Bastet's spirit for adventure has returned and she demands to be set down to start her exploration tour. Once he has released her, Jack follows the German Captain to the gates out of the base into the city. The soldiers at the gate eye the skinny young man with the bruises on his face and his obviously too baggy clothes suspiciously, but stand at attention immediately, once they have looked at his military pass and recognized the rank. "I'm sorry, Captain, we didn't recognize you", an Australian Private apologizes, as he salutes diligently, while handing back Dietrich's papers who replies with a professional tone: "That's forgivable, Private. I only arrived yesterday in the afternoon." "Sir, may I ask you something?", the second soldier, a freckled young Brit, who looks obviously far too pale for having spent much time under the North African sun, asks a bit shyly, although he looks like curiosity might kill him like the proverbial cat. The lean German merely raises his eyebrows in a questioning manner, before adding after a few seconds of silence: "Please, go ahead, Private." "Are you the kr... German officer, Sir?", the young man barely corrects himself in time. Dietrich smiles wryly. There is obviously no need to introduce his background, as rumors are probably already running wild in the Allied headquarters. "Yes, I am a German officer. I serve in the U.S. army now though." "You really sound like a Yankee", the Australian adds, sounding impressed. "If you would excuse us for now, gentlemen", Dietrich tells him, sounding only slightly impatient. "We should return here within the next hour, should anybody look for me." "We'll tell anyone, Captain", the Australian confirms and his young British comrade nods eagerly.

"Where are we going, Captain?", Jack asks, as he follows Dietrich out of the base into the narrow streets of Tobruk. "Meeting an acquaintance of mine whom I would like you to get to know as well for gathering information should I be unavailable", Hans replies curtly. Several traders approach them, but both are quick and efficient at deterring them. Then, Ahmed moves toward them quietly. "As-Salam aleikum, Hauptmann", aragged boy of approximately ten years greets the tall German. "Wa-Aleikum Salam, Ahmed", the young officer greets him back. "*I have brought one of my soldiers along to whom you may report, if I am not able to come myself. He also speaks your language. This is Jack Moffit*", Dietrich explains, pointing at Moffit who greets the young Arab. "*Moffit, meet my main street informant in Tobruk, Ahmed. We have collaborated successfully several times since May.*" Ahmed nods eagerly after studying Moffit intently for several long seconds. "*If he also gives me food, Hauptmann, I can tell him things as well.*" "*He learns the manner of our arrangement now, Ahmed*", Dietrich agrees and takes out the can with corned beef Tully has given him earlier. "*This is your payment which you will receive after your report. As you know your information has to be the truth.*" The ragged young Arab nods vehemently. "*I swear to Allah that I've never lied to you, Hauptmann.*" "*Good. Then, please start telling me what happened since the large battle and the new soldiers arrived in Tobruk. What do you know about the soldiers in town, those acting openly and those ... in hiding? Also who among the locals works with whom, as far as you know?*"

Ahmed starts telling the German Captain about the battle from his perspective of a desperate civilian without a house to hide in, when shells and bombs have landed anywhere in the city, as the Allied and Axis troops have fought for control over Tobruk. Then, he continues telling him about various local traders, mercenaries and crooks who have changed their allegiance immediately to the new power in town, literally working for whoever pays them, while he knows that some people are still loyal to the Axis side, though he does not know who exactly, while others who have secretly supported the Allies are now among the winners. Moffit listens slightly incredulously to the amount of detail the dirty street rat has gathered only through observation and begging. Once Dietrich has paid their informant with the can of meat and arranged to meet him again in a few days, the British Sergeant addresses the young officer: "I have to admit that I have truly underestimated your abilities of gathering information, Captain. This is brilliant and even beyond what I have ever come up with. We paid local Bedouins for their information, but hiring street beggars as regular informants is truly smart." Hans eyes him a bit warily, but nods in acceptance of the apparently honest statement of appreciation. "Coming from you, this is an actual compliment, Moffit", the German mutters. "Paying Ahmed regularly is a win-win situation for both of us. He will reliably provide us with intel, while having a steady source of food which is not guaranteed for an orphan such as him."

"Whatever I said about you and your strays, Captain, I take it back. You really know what you're doing", Jack tells him earnestly. "Thank you for trusting me to take me along as your backup." "We're on the same side, Moffit, and you're the only one speaking Arabic well enough to serve as my replacement should I get wounded or killed", Dietrich counters calmly. "It would be absurd not to introduce you. Should something happen to me, you will still be able to use my connections in this manner." "You know that hell will freeze over, before Troy will allow anything to happen to you, if he has even the slightest chance of fighting against it", Jack counters, noticing the slightly fatalistic attitude of the young Captain. "I have no doubt that he'll do whatever he can, but I'm equally assured that I won't survive this war in the long run. I'll fight as long and best as I can and try to help my current unit to smoothen their way, but we both know that I was very lucky to survive German captivity once and I will likely not survive being caught by my former side again", Hans argues with a grim expression. Moffit observes him closely. Whatever has happened yesterday has apparently rattled the German's beliefs gravely and thrown him back into his state of battle fatigue. Or maybe now that he has the time to finally relax and think, the sheer magnitude of his life-changing decisions and their consequences has caught up with him. Jack will need to join forces with Sam and Jakob to try and help their mutual friend who appears in desperate need of his friends to support him.

Tully Pettigrew is the next one after Mark Hitchcock to be called in for the interview. The Private from Kentucky is proud of himself that he has even taken care to button his uniform completely and to check it in a mirror. After all he knows what the German Captain means when he wants them to be at their best behaviour. In spite of providing one of his best salutes to the British officers, they still appear doubtful, observing him closely. "You're Private Tully Pettigrew?", a tall Scottish officer inquires and Tully merely nods, until he sees the man narrowing his eyes angrily and he adds: "Yes, Sir." "You're apparently the only one of your unit who can wear a uniform according to the U.S. army regulations", the older British General comments sharply. Tully truly misses his matchstick as a stress reliever and for hiding his expression. Without knowing what would be the diplomatic thing to say, he decides to stay with his usual strategy and remain silent. "Your file describes a rather interesting and unusual manner of volunteering for the army", Lieutenant Colonel McLean points out dryly. The Kentucky moonshiner merely shrugs in response. "According to your file you have ended up in local jails several times, requiring to be bailed out by your superiors, and been accused of various crimes, such as theft from an officer", the Scotsman declares with a stern tone. Tully shrugs again, staying silent.

Both British officers observe him with clear distrust, until General Montgomery puts his actual question: "You knew Captain Dietrich from when he was still an officer of the German Wehrmacht. What was your opinion of the man?" Pettigrew shrugs again and takes his time, before replying: "He's always been fair when treating us as prisoners, even us Privates, Hitch and me. Cap always kept his word, when he negotiated a truce with Sarge." By now the two British officers have given up on trying to enforce the application of proper titles with any member of the Rat Patrol. These Yankees are simply hopeless cases. "We heard from Private Hitchcock that you did not take it seriously at first, when Captain Dietrich was assigned to your unit", McLean starts his statement to which Pettigrew only nods silently. Unlike the other Private who has hardly ever shut up and already started talking before even asked a question this one is more of the quiet observing type. The Scottish spymaster can make out the potential for a good spy based on these qualities, but it is truly annoying for extracting information from the man. "We also know that you neither liked nor trusted the Captain. Is this correct?"

The American Private shrugs concomitantly, before providing his curt reply: "Sarge trusted him. I trust Sarge." The two British officers exchange unnerved glances. "You trusted your Sergeant enough to accept a former German Wehrmacht Captain as your commanding officer?" Pettigrew is absolutely serious, as he replies: "We dragged Cap out of that SS hellhole and knew he couldn't go back to the Jerries. He was fair with all of us, not just Sarge and Doc. Hitch liked him pretty soon." "And what about you, Private Pettigrew? What is your opinion of your Captain?", the Scotsman asks sternly, trying to force an answer out of the soldier. "Cap's always been fair and honest with his word given, before and even more after becomin' one of us. He stood by his Jerries, really caring 'bout them. He showed us a kid who'd lost his leg in the attack Hitch and I started to distract the Jerries, while Sarge and Doc were getting Cap and Ari out. He visited the kid even after changing sides, just like he looked after Doc and Hitch, when they were injured. We caught quite many kraut officers before. Some sold intel, some stuff I don't know about and some their base and their men. Dietrich sold himself to get Sarge to help him save his men. And he stood by us, when none of the brass has ever cared to bother before." "Could you be a bit more specific about this, Private Pettigrew?", McLean asks, content that they are finally getting somewhere. Tully looks him directly in the eyes. "Cap defended me, when the other brass came after me, even offered to the Gen'ral to take my penal duty himself, 'cause I'd gotten into troubled, when I tried to help him. He's got more sense of honor and loyalty than the rest of them. I respect that." McLean nods contently. "Do you share your unit members' sympathy for the Captain?" Pettigrew meets his gaze straight on. "Cap listened to my tale why I'm here and didn't just read the file and declare me a crook like you did, Sir." His tone gets icy at the title. "Cap also looked after me personally when I was wounded and always treated me with respect, asked for my opinion and all. None of the brass have ever done that. I'd march through hell and back again for him", Tully declares with conviction, taking both British officers by surprise.

Hans Dietrich accompanies the British Sergeant to the office of the General who has scheduled one interview after the other of their whole unit. As the German has taken a few steps down the hallway to get to know the office area and whose office he is able to find where, Tully leaves the Generalfieldmarshal's office and approaches him directly, when he spots the tall young officer. "Wanna join me for a drink, Cap?", Tully offers and the skinny Captain stares at him incredulously for a few moments, before recovering from his surprise over the unexpected invitation to heavy drinking before noon. "I know this kind of attitude after an interrogation. Has it really been that bad, Pettigrew?", Hans comments dryly, though with some sympathy. "No idea how you manage to stand the brass all the time", Tully mutters as an answer. "Just come along, Cap!" Dietrich drops his hesitation after a moment. Pettigrew has never been that eager to communicate ever before. Knowing him as one of the more reliable and less sentimental unit members, the German Captain decides to find out what this is about.

As they enter the second room of the Rats, shared by the American unit members, Hans starts guessing which bed belongs to whom. Gottschlich is easy to identify as the only one with an orderly made bed and all his possessions well organized. The bush hat on Troy's bed is a dead give away, so only the two other beds remain. Tully reveals this secret immediately, when he climbs up to reach his bunk bed and retrieves a bottle from the bottom of his rucksack. "Please tell me that this is no dubious homebrew like Brown has used to dim your wits, Pettigrew!", the German mutters sarcastically. "It's a Pettigrew original. Real Kentucky Bourbon, Cap", Tully declares proudly. The lean Captain tries to hide his skepticism, when the Private holds the hand labelled bottle in front of him, muttering: "Your family business." "It's legal now to have a still", Tully counters. "I wasn't criticizing you", the tall officer replies wearily. "So what happened that made you so upset, Pettigrew? I only know you as the master of stoicism." As Tully pours his young commander half a glass and himself a full one, he starts his provide his recount of events.

Sergeant Jack Moffit meanwhile undergoes the next round of the interview. Unlike with some of his American comrades, his uniform is not the first thing to cause criticism. The General's aide leads him into the room and again takes his seat to take care of the official protocol. "Sergeant Jack Moffit. You served with the Scot's Greys. Why did you leave your unit to join the Rat Patrol?", the British Generalfieldmarshal inquires sternly. "The Americans had first requested my assistance for a single mission to provide special knowledge I had acquired during my PhD field research in North Africa", Jack replies professionally. "You hold a PhD from Cambridge in which subject area, Doctor Moffit?", McLean intercedes. "Anthropology, specifically focused on North African tribal and urban culture, Sir", the former Cambridge scholar replies with a professional tone. "I realized the potential of enhancing a desert scout unit with my specific type of knowledge and therefore offered to remain with the Rat Patrol."

"You therefore have known Captain Dietrich as your enemy for a whole year, Sergeant, haven't you?", the Scottish spymaster inquires. "Indeed, Lieutenant Colonel. I knew that the Captain was as clever and wily, as he was honorable and true to his word", Moffit answers him. "What was your opinion when Sergeant Troy persuaded General Atkins to make the Captain your direct commanding officer?", McLean asks directly. "Frankly, I was immensely angry with Sergeant Troy for acting out of pure sympathy for the German officer rather than considering his unit's attitude toward the man", Jack replies honestly. "However, Captain Dietrich has gradually convinced me through his actions like everyone else. He saved my life by donating his own blood and similarly was willing to put his own life at risk for each of us in spite of our previous enmity. I learned to not only respect, but truly appreciate and like the Captain for his manner of handling his men and his job. He is an idol for being a good and noble officer in my opinion and I could not wish to serve under a better man." Both look slightly surprised at the clear declaration they would not have expected from the cool and aloof appearing British scientist.

"Captain Dietrich mentioned that he asked for your knowledge and active support when dealing with the locals", McLean points out, looking back at his protocol. "Indeed, Sir. The Captain is an intelligent and competent man who knows exactly whose expertise to ask in which field. He listened to Sergeant Troy regarding planning commando operations, to Privates Hitchcock and Pettigrew regarding handling of our Jeeps and equipment and to me regarding my field of expertise, actively asking for our input", Jack replies. "We heard similar things from your fellow unit members", Montgomery states sternly. "You joined an all American unit originally. Has it never occurred to you to return to your British unit, when a German defector was put in command?" Jack Moffit meets his gaze directly. "Of course it has occurred to me, Sir, and I evaluated this option in all earnestness, but realized that I could hardly ever end up in a unit as tightly knit as the Rat Patrol is due to its small size and the close cooperation of its members. Captain Dietrich has turned out to be not a disturbance, but a real asset, forming even closer ties with the members of our unit himself."

"Sergeant Troy told us that he considers the Captain his friend", the Scottish officer comments. "What do you think of this?" "I was informed by both of them, when they first agreed on this strange friendship on probation. I thought it would end badly, but I ended up agreeing to a similar notion with the Captain myself", Moffit explains honestly. "By now I trust Captain Hans Dietrich with my life without a moment of hesitation, General Montgomery, Lieutenant Colonel McLean, not because of misguided emotional affinity for the man, but because he has earned every bit of this trust through his selfless and honorable actions, through his loyalty to his principles and his men. When he said his final goodbye to them yesterday, his German troops which he had led into Allied captivity himself treated him with as much respect and sympathy as the members of our own unit do." McLean looks surprised and Montgomery openly distrustful now, while Jack intends to correct this impression. "Captain Dietrich is absolutely true to his word and has no option of turning against us which he would not do in spite of some mistreatment he has received from the Allied side, being physically beaten or shot by his fellow officers and openly harassed verbally more often than I care to count. I would have believed that given the proud young officer that he is, he would openly resist and resent the men treating him like that, but he doesn't. On the contrary he considers it the natural behavior shown to a former enemy and convicted traitor. He even stood up in the defence of those acting against him like he did in the case of Lieutenant Baker, asking in his trial to spare him a court martial and severe punishment. I learned through this as through many of his other actions that the Captain is a real humanitarian, true to his principles, whether saving orphaned children and little animals or standing in the defence even of his enemies, if those principles demand it, as he has stood up in my defence, even when he still served in the Wehrmacht..."

"There you are, Captain Fox Kit!", Troy exclaims, as he enters their room, apparently to look for Pettigrew. "Are you two becoming drinking buddies now?", Sam asks with a wink at which Dietrich looks fairly scandalized, when he protests: "Definitely not. But I'm neither on duty, nor impolite enough to deny a small sample of the family brew which Private Pettigrew has offered me during his report about the interview." The American Sergeant groans immediately at the mentioning of the interview. "That interview convinced me that I made the totally correct decision when I refused to become part of the brass." "You look like you're in need of strong alcoholic beverages yourself, when providing such a report, Sergeant Troy", Hans comments with a smirk, although some concern shines in his brown eyes. "You can bet on that. But I need some lunch before starting to drink. Wanna join us, Captain, if you don't have any obligations?" The German officer considers whether he has and finally shrugs with a slight wince, when his shoulder reminds him of the necessity for performing his specific exercises and relaxing more often. "I suppose that I don't have any for now. At dinner I should show the proper behaviour of joining the officers' table." After a moment of hesitation, he adds: "I only should perform my shoulder exercises before having lunch." Troy grins widely: "Good idea. Let's go to the courtyard for some exercises! It's too damned crammed in here. We'll join you, Captain."

The trio leaves for the courtyard where they search for some quiet unobserved spot to perform some exercises. Although it starts as physical therapy for Dietrich's shoulder, half an hour later they have gone through basic exercises for the whole body. "We truly earned our lunch today", Troy finally declares with a smile. "Let's shake it! Lunch is waiting for us." Not only lunch is waiting, but also the duo of Riku Gottschlich and Mark Hitchcock who feeds some burnt fish parts the kitchen boys have given him to a pleading Fritz. As soon as he spots Hans Dietrich though, the little brown dog comes running toward his master with enthusiastic yelps. The German Captain is prepared when the dog jumps up to put his paws on his thigh and demands his cuddles as a greeting, before repeating the same procedure with Troy, while Dietrich and Pettigrew approach the food dispense station. "What do you serve today?", the German officer inquires politely. Although he wears Boggs' shirt without a uniform jacket and any further rank insignia, one man recognizes him from seeing him on the previous evening and asks curiously: "You're the Jerry Captain, aren't you, Sir?" Dietrich nods with a fatalistic expression. "Yes, I am. Does this have any consequences for what food I may receive, Private?" The British soldier blushes vividly, as he stammers: "No, Sir. I'm sorry, Sir, for not answering right away. We got fresh fish as our special treat for today. Tatoes from the U.S. and some good old Shepard's pie, if you like our home cuisine." "I suppose I'll try all of that in moderate amounts", Hans replies calmly and stares at the plate with some astonishment upon seeing the large portion. "I don't require special treatment as an officer", he protests indignantly, but Sam Troy who joins him quickly intercedes: "You only require the extra rations cause you look like you're merely skin and bone, Captain. Quit protesting. We can help you with carrying your stuff." Sighing wearily, the German officer swallows his stubborn pride and even turns to the young British soldier: "I apologize for my reaction, Private." "No harm's been done, Sir. Enjoy your meal!", the baffled young man wishes him, a bit perplexed by the whole exchange.

Tully Pettigrew takes care of carrying everything else, while Dietrich insists on at least taking his own plate with his left hand. By the time they join Mark Hitchcock and Riku Gottschlich, Jack Moffit enters the mess hall as well and approaches his comrades. "You're already enjoying your lunch. I'll join you in a moment. Mixing grilled fish with Shepard's pie is a tough combination, Captain." "I survived the Italian mystery meat. I suppose that has prepared me well for surviving the British cuisine combined with the American one as well", Hans counters dryly. With a smile, Jack pats him on his good shoulder. "No doubt about that, old chap. I'll tell you how it went, once I'm back." "Don't ruin my appetite by mentioning anything about the brass, while we're eating, Jack!", Troy admonishes him. "I told the Captain we'll go to a special meeting location for the occasion." "I don't recall the special location part, only the heavy drinking part, Troy", Dietrich points out with a smirk. "You're still a Jerry smartass, Captain Sherlock", Sam grumbles with good humor. "Now, let's enjoy our lunch, before it gets cold."

"Where are the others, Hitchcock?", the German Captain asks, as he takes his seat opposite the Private. "They had early lunch to prepare for the interviews. I gave them some tipps", Hitch replies with a smile. A moment later, the young American draws in a sharp breath and his lean commanding officer turns around to find out about the reason. Lieutenant Colonel McLean and Generalfieldmarshal Montgomery have just entered the mess hall and the Scottish officer points at their table, whispering to the older General who observes them with a wary scowl. "What do you think they say about us?" "Likely nothing overly flattering", Hans comments dryly. "But my reputation is so utterly bad that sitting with the enlisted men for lunch can hardly affect it anymore." "That's the spirit", Sam agrees after swallowing most of what he has in his mouth. "I'd rather have you here with us than in their company." "I agree with you, Sergeant, that this is the more enjoyable way of passing lunch, but not the proper one and I will have to make compromises for the sake of not becoming a complete outcast for the Allied officers", the lean Captain mutters quietly. "I can't wait till we leave this place and finally get rid of these norms", Sam grumbles. "That will not be the case before all of us have recovered from our injuries and received the training Lieutenant Colonel McLean has in mind for us", his younger German friend counters. "Let's make the best of it until then." "I like your way, Cap!", Tully agrees unexpectedly, taking not only Dietrich by surprise. By the time Jack Moffit joins them, they all eat quietly.

"Where do you intend to speak in a private and safe atmosphere?", Hans inquires, once he has finished most of his lunch, feeding some of his fish and pie to Fritz, as he finds himself unable to eat such large portions. The little brown dog leaves his head on the young man's knee expressing his adoration through his large brown eyes and licking the Captain's fingers. "You're our expert for the local town, Captain", Sam replies. "We'll take your suggestion." "I doubt you'd like a teahouse, Troy", Hans replies dryly, although Moffit smiles happily at the suggestion. "So the best I could suggest would be the bar where we met yesterday, as I'm not the expert for many such places. You can also drink something non-alcoholic there", the German officer suggests quietly. "Whyever would I want to do that?", Troy counters with a grin. "Because unlike me, you're still on duty, Troy", the young Captain reminds him with a sly tone.

"I knew you had the better life, Dietrich, officers and privileges and such", Troy grumbles with a wink. "Believe what you want, Troy!", Hans mutters sarcastically. "I apologize though that I cannot actually participate in the activity, as I lack the cash for paying anything", he adds in a more serious tone. "They still haven't paid you a salary after all this?", Troy exclaims incredulously. "Quiet, Sergeant!", Hans mutters, looking at the men in their vicinity with clear concern to be overheard, as many stare at them now. "I suppose that they will pay me a partial salary at least in cash as soon as this investigation is over." "We all owe you, Captain. You come with us and you're invited on whatever you wanna drink", Sam declares with conviction. "I can't just accept your charity", the proud young Captain grits out with obvious embarrassment. "You can accept an honest invitation from your friends. Would you accept it from Jakob?", Troy insists. Reluctantly, Dietrich nods. "Good. Then you can accept it from Jack and me as well", Sam declares with finality, placing his hand on the younger man's left shoulder, intent to not give him a chance to escape. "After this interrogation inviting you for a drink is the far more harmless act of friendship. How did you even manage to survive yesterday without tearing any of those idiots' heads off?" "Troy!", Moffit and Dietrich groan in perfect synchronisation.

"Private Kevin O'Donnell and Private Daniel O'Donnell", the freckled English Lieutenant calls the two Australian soldiers who have waited in the antechamber nervously. "That's us, Sir", Danny replies and salutes, while his brother scrambles to his feet and repeats the salute hastily. The officer observes them with a certain amount of distaste, but finally nods. "Follow me, gentlemen!" They are led into the same office where two further officers await them, one tall and athletic in his thirties, the other tall and sinewy in his fifties, both bearing stern expressions. "I am Lieutenant Colonel McLean", the tall athletic younger officer introduces himself with a jovial smile. "I thought we'd conduct your interviews together instead of using separate rooms. You're Private Daniel and Kevin O'Donnell." Both nod and salute at their respective name's mentioning. "Excellent. Now let's get an overview. Did you know Captain Dietrich before his defection, when he still served in the Wehrmacht?", the Scotsman continues. "Yes, Sir", Daniel replies. "Captain Dietrich captured me during a raid against his base in October. He treated me fairly, assured that I received medical treatment for my severe injuries, as well as food and water. Then he questioned me himself, always staying civil and more or less polite. The Captain also signed a paper which specified that I was not a commando soldier and should receive immediate medical treatment in the POW camp which saved my life, Sir. The SS took any other scout or commando unit soldier into their custody, executed the ones too gravely wounded for interrogations on the spot and tortured the other ones. I could hear their screams to the field hospital and swore revenge on those bastards. Three days later Kevin and some more of Captain Brown's lads freed me and we took the SS down."

The two British officers exchange glances, before the older one addresses him: "So you can confirm what Sergeants Troy and Moffit as well as Privates Hitchcock and Pettigrew have also told us before that Captain Dietrich has always adhered to international treaties and treated enemy soldiers with the deserving respect, Private O'Donnell?" "Yes, Sir!", Danny confirms. "When we first came to his camp after he had defected to the Yankees, I even went to thank him along with Kevin, my brother, and Deirdre, my cousin, who's a nurse for the LRDP." "How did the Captain react?", Montgomery wants to know. "He was startled, not sure whether we wanted revenge or something else. Captain Dietrich looked honestly surprised when we thanked him", Daniel explains with a smile. "I doubt that this has been sufficient reason for applying to join the man", Montgomery states sternly. "No, Sir. It would have been over with that, if we wouldn't have been involved in Captain Dietrich's investigations", Daniel replies and Kevin adds: "Captain Sherlock's really brilliant with those things. He went over the burnt out rigged supply depot and could tell what had happened and how a trap had been laid for our comrades just from the direction the bodies were lying. He acted truly like Sherlock Holmes himself, only it was real."

"Why did you apply to join the Rat Patrol under command of such an officer, a defected former Afrikakorps Captain?", McLean inquires with honest curiosity. "The Captain really earned a reputation after that investigation and even more so when hunting the Jerry infiltrators in camp. Although some distrusted him, he was the only one acting in a clear, understandable manner and communicating his findings. We never suspected him of being an infiltrator himself and neither did the majority of men in camp. By the time they finally caught the last of the Jerries Captain Dietrich was the one officer anybody trusted to take care of just about any kind of situation, not just military, but especially whichever task requiring calm thinking and investigative skills. The whole mess tent full of soldiers applauded for him and dozens of diggers, Yankees and Tommies applied to join him. So did we, not because we're discontent with our old Captain Brown. He's a decent fellow and all, but Captain Dietrich's very different, more actively involved and more openly compassionate." "We were there, when we got him and Hitch, Private Hitchcock, out of the hands of the Arab slavers", Kevin adds to his brother's explanation with enthusiasm. "Captain Sherlock's picked the locks of his own shackles and freed Hitch, Private Hitchcock..."

"He did what?", General Montgomery interrupts him incredulously. "One of our comrades of the LRDP taught him to crack a safe and picking locks on a mission, when they needed to get documents from a SS safe", Daniel quickly adds as an explanation, glaring at his brother for getting their Captain in trouble unnecessarily. "I told you we should've hired this man, Monty", McLean whispers in a conspiratorial manner, before addressing the young soldiers again: "Please continue, Private. What happened after Captain Dietrich picked his own and Private Hitchcock's locks on their shackles?" Kevin looks proud that he may continue with his recount: "The Captain also freed some Arab kids and hired them to help them escape. He had already taken out the guards by the time we came and then carried on till he just keeled over and Sergeant Troy carried him back to us unconscious. But the Bedouin girl Kiri never left his side. She was scared of all of us, but slept next to him, trusting him fully and I've seen how he's treated her and the lad Ari like he'd treat his own children and they really love him. That's why we think he's the best officer we could ever serve with." His broad smile fades a little, when he sees them scowl. "Well. I didn't mean to offend you. I was just...", Kevin stammers until the Scottish spymaster takes mercy on him. "No offense taken, Private. That was quite insightful. Please elaborate a bit more on certain parts..."

The gate guards recognize the German Captain from the morning and salute immediately. "We should go out more often, Captain. We can rarely leave without any questions", Sam whispers to the tall skinny officer next to him. "This actually is the privilege of rank, Troy, and there is a good reason why it is not given to everyone", Hans remarks dryly. Sam Troy walks alongside the German Captain, as they make their way through the narrow streets of Tobruk, while Moffit, Hitchcock and Pettigrew follow behind them. "Did you see that girl? I swear to you she winked at me", Hitch crows enthusiastically, smiling and waving at somebody in the masses. Tully shrugs, appearing rather unimpressed by his friend's usual behaviour, while Dietrich drawls sarcastically without bothering to turn around: "Should I remind you of your engagement or rather notify your fiance of your interests?" Mark briefly reconsiders whether taking the young officer with his clear set of principles along has been a good idea after all, but settles for accepting things the way they are. The German officer is a lot more tolerant and companionable than Mark would ever have guessed. They can certainly arrange a modus vivendi.

"Hauptmann!", an Arab calls the German with a clear accent and Hans whirls around, reaching for his gun at his belt on instinct, only to realize that he is not carrying one, since he is not on duty. His men are armed however and Troy draws his weapon immediately. The bearded middle-aged man who has called, raises his arms defensively, as he starts speaking: "Nicht... schießen." Then, he quickly switches to Arabic: "*Please don't shoot. I don't want to attack you, Hauptmann.*" "Lower your weapon, Troy!", the German Captain orders sternly, as he takes a step closer to the local man he does not recognize. "*What do you want from me?*", he asks in harsh Arabic with a wary scowl. "*I know you from before the large battle. You speak Arabic well and you treated all who gave you information fairly*", the Arab hastily pleads his case. "*I have information for you, valuable information.*" "*What kind of information?*", Hans inquires sternly, exchanging a glance with Moffit who is the only one understanding the current conversation apart from him. The British Sergeant looks equally wary and concentrated, but briefly nods to the young officer.

"*I know where many valuable things were hidden, clothes, statues, books, other things, Hauptmann*", the Arab tells Dietrich eagerly. "*Why would you tell me this? They are of equal value for yourself*", Hans asks warily. "*I could not take them away from where they are. And then others would attack me and kill me for the money. But they would not attack you and your soldiers*", the man argues. "*I don't care about treasure hunting*", the proud young officer growls. "*Please, Hauptmann. I don't want money from you*", the man cries out, as he takes a step closer and reaches out to grab the German's arm who swiftly dodges him and withdraws, while Troy raises his gun again. "Stop, Troy! He doesn't want to attack", the Captain barks his command, before turning back to the Arab with a scowl. "*What do you want from us?*" "*My son, Hauptmann. He was injured today, when he stepped on one of your hidden bombs in the sand*", the man tells him with tears in his eyes. "*Please, effendi. He doesn't stop bleeding and his whole leg is gone. We can't pay a medic. I only ask for saving his life.*" Jack Moffit can tell immediately that this has been the right argument to move the German Captain, even before Dietrich replies: "*Lead us to your son!*" "*Thank you so much, Hauptmann*", the Arab repeats, bowing deeply, before turning to lead their way on the young officer's command.

While they follow the Arab Hans and Jack translate the conversation that has transpired. "You wanna help his kid, Captain?", Sam asks the skinny German who replies with a grim expression, but honest conviction: "If he tells us the truth, yes, Troy, I intend to help his son. I don't care about hidden treasures as a reward. This youngster has been injured because of one of our mines. Whether it was a German or British one doesn't matter. We owe it to the man to keep his son from bleeding to death. That's a matter of principle and honor." "He could lead us into a trap though", Moffit warns. "That's why you, Troy and Pettigrew better keep your weapons ready." Tully nods, as he shifts his matchstick and inconspicuously draws his army knife, while Troy has never sheathed his gun. Five minutes later they pass a large basin meant for tanning leather which fills the whole area with a notable stench. Then they enter a narrow side street which has a dubious look for the wary commando soldiers and their German Captain. The wailing cries of a woman can be heard already and the Arab starts running. Now also Moffit draws his weapon, suspecting a trap, while Dietrich cautiously moves to stay with his back against the wall, ready to dodge, should they be attacked. But the Arab rushes into a house entrance from where the cries are coming.

When Hans approaches cautiously, flanked by Sam Troy, he can make out the cries as the lamentations for the dead in Arabic culture. The Arab man who has led them here has broken to his knees and howls loudly with pain and grief at the side of some clothes laid out on the floor which are drenched with blood. "Put away your weapons! This isn't a trap, just a grieving family", Hans mutters hoarsely, feeling guilty for the unnecessary death caused by this senseless war over a barren desert, none of the Europeans, Americans or ANZAC soldiers actually cares about, unlike their respective homelands. "We're too late for this boy." Troy actually feels a painful stab through the heart at the Captain's words and lowers his gun. "It isn't our fault, old chap", Moffit addresses the young officer, placing a hand on his shoulder unexpectedly at which the German actually winces with surprise. "None of us fought in this last battle or placed this mine", the British Sergeant adds with a calm tone. "As Kiri's mother told us, none of us should be here to fight this unnecessary war in the first place", Dietrich counters bitterly. "This won't bring the boy back to life. We can only try to end this as quickly as possible, Captain", Jack tells him calmly at which the younger officer sighs wearily. "I know, Moffit. That's what drives me mainly." "You're a good guy, Captain, and tried all you could. You can't save everyone all the time", Troy tries to argue. Dietrich's tormented expression tells him that this has not been the best of arguments, as he grits out: "I've seen too many die already, senselessly and needlessly."

"We should leave", Troy suggests after allowing the German Captain a few seconds to recover. "We should at least pay our respects!", Hans counters vehemently, before turning to Moffit. "What would be the appropriate way to express our condolences, Doctor?" Jack replies immediately: "In most Muslim countries people find comfort by being reminded that this was Allah's will and he will protect the soul of the dead now. The proper phrase is 'Inna Lillahi ma akhadh, wa Lahu ma a'ta wa kullu schai in 'Indahu bi Ajalin Musamma'." "*Whatever Allah takes is His, and whatever He gives is His and everything has an appointed time*", the German repeats after listening to the phrase twice. "Thank you, Moffit. That much I owe this family to not leave without expressing our condolences." "You're a good man, Captain. If you wish, I would like to join you", Jack replies with a grave expression. "You're welcome to join me. I'm grateful for your support, Sergeant", Hans replies, before turning toward the grieving family with a heavy sigh. "Inna Lillahi ma akhadh, wa Lahu ma a'ta wa kullu schai in 'Indahu bi Ajalin Musamma", the German Captain delivers the phrase diligently. "Allah yirhamo", Moffit adds quietly, "Atham Allah arakum." In spite of his grief, the Arab stands up again and thanks them in the appropriate manner, before asking them to leave his family to grieve in peace.

"What did you tell them?", Sam Troy wants to know, as they backtrack their way to the main street. "Whatever Allah takes is His, and whatever He gives is His and everything has an appointed time", Dietrich translates for him. "It is a very classical phrase, recorded to have been said by the prophet Mohammed himself", Jack Moffit explains. "Mine are phrases which are often used in addition. 'May Allah have compassion on him' and 'May Allah reward you for your patience and ability to deal with this adversity'." "The Arabic version sounded a lot shorter", Troy grumbles. "That's because the words have far more precise meanings which have to be described with half a sentence in English", Moffit explains diligently, before diving deeper into the intricacies of the Arabic language which interests only Dietrich, while Sam is happy to fall back a few steps and grumble a complaint to Hitch and Tully. "I'm sorry we couldn't save the boy", Hitch mutters, looking slightly depressed. "I know that the Captain would've done all within his power to save the kid. It just wasn't meant to be", Troy tells him with a grim expression. "God, I need that drink now. How come we never came into this kind of situation before Dietrich was with us?" "Maybe Doc didn't tell us", Hitch suggests cautiously, as Tully shrugs and nods. Sam scowls, but finally concedes: "Maybe you're right, Hitch. Better not worry about it any longer. We all need a drink now. First round's on me."