Scott checked with the troops and all appeared clear. There were no signs of habitation or large predators so he figured they were fairly safe for the time being. “Albrecht; I’m guessing you need high ground to help pinpoint the signal, correct?”<br/><br/>The 44 year old engineer dug through his pack for the equipment he would need and looked at Scott. “Yeah…” He said meekly; seemingly unsure. Then at the Marine Captain’s continued stare he straightened a little. “Yes sir. High ground.”<br/><br/>Scott nodded, “Good. There is a ridgeline up ahead to the left. Our compasses are useless so stay close. We’re gonna follow this riverbed as far as we can. I don’t like it but it’s the fastest way. Everyone keep your ears and eyes open.” Scott had heard the Dr’s theory back in the gate room and he knew well the dangers of a flash flood. He had no intention of getting caught in one again.<br/><br/>He quickly positioned the six of them into a column with the civilians toward the rear and then looked back to the two non-combatants: “If we move fast we can be there in about an hour.” He said in a voice just above a whisper and looked back and forth to each for a moment. “Please keep your voices down. We have no idea what’s out here.” He felt bad singling them out with his last comment but he would feel even worse if their lack of noise discipline brought out some dangerous beastie and got someone killed. No; he wouldn’t have that.<br/><br/>Scott looked the front and with a hand signal the column began to move.<br/>