How were they planning to descend from the summit, and why?

• A. Directly down the same route they climbed.
• B. Parachuting from the summit.
• C. Staying at the summit and not descending.
• D. Via the Nepalese side, where Sherpas would wait to assist, to avoid Capt. Shek.

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is using local help and a different route to manage risk during descent. Descending via the Nepalese side with Sherpas waiting to assist leverages their expertise, terrain knowledge, and established support network. This makes the retreat safer and more efficient, because the Sherpas can guide the way, coordinate help if conditions change, and provide immediate assistance if needed. It also helps avoid Captain Shek by taking a route where they’re less exposed to his influence or control, rather than retracing the same path where trouble could be encountered. In short, using the Nepalese side with Sherpa support turns the descent into a safer, more controllable operation.