The four five-man teams spread out like liquid mercury, sticking close to the ground, using every rock and terrain depression to move towards the three target positions at the top of the eastern cliff.
Their movement speed was slightly faster than when they were climbing, yet still cautious.
The panoramic view provided by the night vision goggles allowed them to maintain a sense of direction and awareness of their teammates' positions in the complex terrain.
Song Heping led Team A towards the objective at the northernmost end, which was also the highest position with the best view.
According to thermal imaging, there were four heat sources there.
The position was set in a natural stone pit, backed by a massive rock wall, with a view extending over the entire northern entrance of the canyon and part of the road.
They needed to approach from the rear side, where there was a blind spot in observation.
