The three of them encountered no further danger along the way.
Although bloodstains appeared frequently, often looking quite ominous, the entire underground complex was deathly silent. Apart from their footsteps, there was not a sound nearby. This only put Li Wei and Katie on higher alert. At times like these, they had to be especially careful.
There were laboratories here, too, but their interiors were such a mess that it was impossible to tell what had been researched in them. Annie examined the research records, but they only described studies on samples. Li Wei could not make sense of the formulas or detailed notes. After reading them carefully, however, Annie knitted her brows, as though something troubling had occurred to her.
Gradually, the passage ahead began to change.
The relatively "modern" corridor and flooring disappeared, replaced by hard stone slabs. The walls on either side also took on an older appearance, as though they had been excavated by hand. Only the swarms of fireflies casting white light continued to spread unchecked, covering the surroundings like weeds.
Then Li Wei stopped.
An open stone door stood before him. Through it, Li Wei could see an open chamber with a small, pyramid-shaped platform in its center. The top of the platform had been completely broken open, with fragments scattered beside it. A stone chair lay overturned nearby.
"I'm certain I've seen this thing somewhere before."
"So have I, Mr. Li Wei."
Katie nodded as well. They exchanged glances, clearly recognizing the familiar scene. Back during the original Courtesan Killer case, they had sneaked into a tavern to investigate a suspicious lady and discovered a similar altar in the secret chamber beneath her room.
That altar had been relatively small, however, while this one was more like a deluxe version. For instance, four