Part 32 (2/2)

The Territorial complied. No more shots came from the other side of the compound, but Valentine could see Oklahomans running from the barracks toward the north fence. The Wolves must have reached the compound.

”Open the gate, please,” Valentine said to the woman, who rushed to comply. The unlocked gate swung easily on its hinges, and Valentine entered the camp. He walked up to the Territorial, still on the ground, face turned sideways and fearfully eyeing Valentine.

”Okay, Terri, unless you want to p.i.s.s off the man holding the gun, you better tell me who's in the house with the big porch.”

”Mister, it's four Skulls and some administrator guy out of Tulsa. And I ain't really a Territorial, I just wear the uniform because I'm in the transports. I drive trucks. I just drive trucks, I swear.”

”Did you drive a tanker in here today?”

”Yes, sir-that was me. They got a pump for the road vehicles and the tractors. I'm s'posed to spend the night here at the Rigyard, then-”

”I found the lieutenant,” called a Wolf pointing his gun around the corner of the guardhouse.

”Sarge, Lieutenant Valentine's here. He's okay,” another Wolf added.

”Keep an eye on these two,” Valentine ordered. ”Sanchez, help McFerrin carry Alpin in.”

McFerrin's head and shoulders popped up like those of a curious prairie dog. Wolves rushed to help McFerrin with their wounded comrade.

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