In the end, only Auretin would be left behind to wait for them.
Auretin was not a reckless person. He knew his own strength and so didn't find it a shameful thing to be left behind alone while everyone else went forward.
It took a certain kind of maturity to understand the concept of only doing what you could and not be a burden to others during critical times.
As Elvis, Lea and Wabei were clearly unable to ascend the mountains, they went their separate ways.
Gregory carried Gu Mengmeng and flew directly to the peak of the Motou mountains, while Elvis, Lea and Wabei trekked forward into the snow.
They experienced the so-called "riding on a dead horse toward a mountain" effect: something was clearly right before you, but even after running at it all day, it appeared like you failed to make any headway at all. Add to that the fact that one's speed would be severely restricted by the myriad of difficulties faced when trudging through the heavy snow.