The thunderstorm had passed overnight, leaving the vegetation surrounding Liangzi Lake washed clean.
With the first light of dawn, distant mountains were edged with a layer of gold.
What should have been an intoxicating beautiful scene was marred by a foul stench emanating from the lake, carrying the scent of charred flesh and blood, lingering in the air.
On the lake, dozens of small boats were roving about, even the Navy's Jiujiang patrol boats had sailed into the heart of the lake.
Beyond that, large chunks of black material floated in the lake, similar to charcoal, from which the foul smell originated.
"Be careful!"
"We need a few more people over here!"
"Quick, they've found something over there!"
Upon hearing the shout, the surrounding boats quickly converged.
Plop! Plop!
Many people jumped into the water and, after a short while, reemerged pulling on ropes, while numerous soldiers used pulleys to heave strenuously.
Splash!
Soon, muddy water surged with splashes.
