The last of the people willing to call themselves Nephite, and to fight for that designation, are collected on a mountain. If we recall the physical surroundings of the Hill Cumorah, we remember that it was a high point on a coastal plain. Indeed, Cerro Vigia translates into “Lookout Hill.” The high point would have a visual vantage point over the surrounding more level areas. The sight lines would be long. Here then, are a people gathered for their final battle, watching their doom march towards them for hours. They see the size of the enemy clearly, and the numbers and probably the reputation of the coming army indicates that this really will be a final and desperate battle. No wonder Mormon describes the people watching with fear and terror.