At the same time, hearing the sound of artillery fire from the east, the Eighth Route Army and the Military Statistics Bureau teams charged toward the Japanese Army's stronghold and supply depot, respectively.
The Eighth Route Army soldiers moved with agility. Led by their company commander, they skillfully utilized the terrain for cover, advancing rapidly toward the Japanese Army stronghold. They wove through the mountain forest, their footsteps light and swift, careful not to make a sound.
Midway, the scout leading the point suddenly signaled for everyone to halt. Not far ahead, a Japanese Army patrol was marching slowly toward them in measured steps. The Japanese soldiers wore serious expressions, scanning their surroundings vigilantly, their rifles clutched tightly to their chests.
Chapter 177