The convoy drove into the mountains and stopped at the bottom of a secluded valley on the west side of Gelbi Mountain, covered with massive wind-eroded rocks and deep ravines.
The engine shut off, and as soon as the car door was pushed open, the hot desert wind, carrying gritty sand, immediately enveloped everyone.
Song Heping jumped out of the car, the gravel underfoot making a crunching sound.
He quickly surveyed the surroundings.
Jagged rocks interlocked, forming natural cover and blind observational spots, and the massive shadows provided precious shade.
"Disperse and conceal the vehicles! Cover them with camouflage nets! All personnel, maintain silence and stand by!"
Song Heping quietly issued the second command.
Gelbi Mountain is just to the west of Deir Ezzor, with the nearest part of the mountain range less than five kilometers from the city boundary.
This is a natural strategic location.
