here's debra patta. r reporter: the story: pistorius spent the last week of a recess mentally preparing expelf to take the stand. it's expected a pathologist will be the first witness for the defense, followed by pistorius, who faces several days of grueling cross-examination. >> she gave an opinion... >> reporter: he will square off against state prosecutor gerrie dog" who is nicknamed "the bulldog" in south africa because of his relentless style of interrogation. prosecution sources say the toves are off this week, and there will be no special treatment for pistorius. possibly the greatest irony for a man who fought so hard to be regarded as equal. expeafrican defense attorney rudi krause says he expects nel to be merciless. >> reporter: not only will he e ve to withstand the ruthless cross-examination this week, but he will have to try to hold his emotions in check-- a hard task given that he has broken down many times sobbing and retching during the prosecution's case. there are key questions he need