Chapter 6
Dakota and Welch left the tent early the next morning, while it was still dark. The wind had changed direction during the night and was blowing warm air from the southwest. Although no clouds were present, only the brightest stars pierced the sullied atmosphere. The half moon glowed with a dim light above the western horizon.
The colony lay quiet as they crept around the huts. Howie’s head popped up as they approached Warren’s abode but he didn’t make a sound. He rose to his feet and wagged his tail. Dakota scratched his ears and chin for a few seconds before entering. He woke up Chip and Warren, warning them to be quiet.
The colonel led them to the west edge of the colony, where two men stood with three horses. Dakota wondered if the emaciated beasts would be able to make a l
