When nature was as much of an adversary as the intruders. An extract

Lieutenant General Konsam Himalay Singh with Shiv Kunal Verma

The first assault began in the early hours of 25 June. The men moved at one in the morning, climbing steadily behind the fixed ropes. Movement at that hour carried a different quality. The body had not fully awakened, yet it was already being asked to perform. Muscles stiff from cold had to respond immediately.

Very quickly, the climb reduced itself to essentials. A hand reached forward, searching for a hold that could not be fully seen. Fingers tested the surface, feeling for firmness through layers of ice and snow. Weight shifted cautiously until the body found balance. Only then did the next movement follow.