Chapter 15, The Needle's Eye Summary

Rudi and Franz share a tent. It is very cold but still much more comfortable than when Rudi had the cave to himself only a few days before. After an uncertain sleep, the men break camp in the dark and have a quick meal. Rudi notices that Captain Winter keeps touching his head where he was injured in the avalanche. The men pack all their equipment in case it is necessary to spend another night on the mountain. The group proceeds single file up the ridge. Soon it is dawn, and the route becomes more defined. Rudi notices again that Captain Winter seems to be straining and doesn't look himself. He thinks that they all have to make it to the summit - especially the captain. He deserves it more than anyone.

The ridge ends abruptly at...