When Gu Mingde gave the order, everyone sprang into action. They didn't rush out in a single swarm. Instead, one group moved out first, and after they had covered some distance, the next group followed, with each providing cover for the other.
The forward group would advance for a stretch, then pause to observe before continuing. At every stop, they planted a conspicuous marker, leaving one at every turn in particular, to make it easier for a later retreat or for the trailing groups to catch up.
Chen Chuan's team was in the rearmost group. However, the advance was swift. By the time it was their turn to move, the first group had already crept into the village.
The first group was cautious initially, but they were surprised to find the area around the village gate completely deserted. The villagers had apparently posted no guards whatsoever.
