The rain showed no sign of easing. The Jade Pool, which had been drained in a short time, already had its bed covered in rainwater again. The lotus flowers that had wilted without water swiftly regained their former vitality as the rain soaked them.
The craftsmen working day and night to clear a passage into Dragon Spirit Wonderland were still at it. Their greatest achievement over the past few days had been finding Quan Dean's body. His remains had now been brought to the shore of the Jade Pool and placed beneath a makeshift rain shelter.
Murong Zhan, along with the imperial physicians and forensic examiners specially summoned there, was examining the body beneath the shelter. When Hu Xiaotian arrived, he happened to see an imperial physician rush out with a hand over his mouth. The man had barely emerged before he bent over and vomited, making it easy to imagine the shock Quan Dean's remains had dealt him.
Hu Xiaotian stepped into the shelter and immediately smelled the stench of decay. He held his breath and covered his nose and mouth with his sleeve. Everyone inside had cloths over their faces, leaving only their eyes exposed. Even so, Hu Xiaotian recognized Murong Zhan at a glance. His white brows, white hair, and gray eyes stood out under any circumstances.
Murong Zhan said nothing, merely cupping his hands in greeting. The others also bowed to Hu Xiaotian in turn.
Hu Xiaotian approached the corpse. It was in far worse condition than he had imagined. After Quan Dean had been killed, part of his remains must have been struck by a giant boulder. Less than half his body remained, and his identity had been determined from his clothing and personal belongings.
Hu Xiaotian examined it carefully, confirming that the body was