Darkness, had fallen, it was silent now. The screaming and crying had faded as the stars began to appear. Jemima shivered. It was so cold. She rubbed Rose's back and arms, trying to keep her warm. Her muscles ached from holding her all these hours. She peered through the darkness and could just make out the line of Israels' face, and just beyond him she could see the small silhouette of Katie. Both their faces were streaked with tears.
"Israel," She whispered. "We should go now."
"No." He said. "Wait longer."
She nodded. "Hold Katie's hand."
"I am." He answered her. "She's shaking."
"Move closer. If we huddle together, it will be warmer." He moved, pulling Katie with him. They formed a tight ring with Rose in the center. Mima reached out with a numb hand and rubbed Katie's cheek. It was icy cold.
"Did you see which way they took her?" He asked.
"Don't scare, Katie Grace." Mima said.
"Criminetly! You think talking about an attack is gonna scare her? She's already scared."
"It will be okay, Kaite. This isn't like your Ma and Pa." Mima said. "They'll take her back with them. That's what they usually do with the women. She'll be okay for now."
Rose began to fuss; cold and hungry.
"Hush, Rose," Israel said softly he gently touched her hair, cooing softly to her. "She's hungry, Mima."
"I know. I had some berries in my apron pocket. I keep giving her those."
They waited another hour, and then numb with cold, they crawled up the embankment, collapsing in the grass. Wearily, they trudged towards the safety of the fort. It was nearly 10 p.m. when they called out at the gate and were finally let in.