"We should expand from here and try to compact the surrounding snow so it won't easily collapse."
Inside the pit, Yao Jun, following Bi Fang's instructions, labored to scoop snow as Jerret threw it out behind him. Soon, a small mound of snow began to accumulate in the enclosed space.
After about ten minutes, Yao Jun's hands relaxed, and he collapsed into the pit, his tongue hanging out as he panted heavily. He swallowed a mouthful of saliva and said, "I can't do it, I really can't. It's too narrow, my back's about to break. Let's switch, somebody else take over."
Hearing this, Jerret crawled out of the pit and pulled Yao Jun out after him, while Bi Fang took over the headlamp and peered inside.
"How long have you been digging? It doesn't seem like there's much change. Even a dog could dig faster than you."
Yao Jun bit his glove and threw it aside: "I really can't anymore, the position is too taxing. Digging snow like this, I'm worn out."
