Shen Xitang’s fingertips traced the brick wall of the Ministry of Works water prison, where magnetic powder clung to the seams, forming a winding, dark line.
Xiao Jingming used his Miao Saber to pry up a blue brick at the bottom of a concealed alcove. Beneath it, a hidden copper conduit suddenly seeped an indigo liquid—a specialized developer from the Ministry of Works that oxidized into sulfur crystal upon contact with air.
"This conduit leads to the seventh hidden stake in the Canal," Shen Xitang said. She placed an improved compass over the conduit opening; the magnetic needle spun violently in the sulfurous vapor.
Chapter 47