The epidemic struck with ferocious momentum, not only was it highly contagious, but it also manifested with particular virulence. Mo Yan's efforts to treat the patients were far from smooth. Despite exerting her utmost strength, comparable to that of nine bulls and two tigers, she barely managed to stabilize the patients' conditions temporarily. Elderly and children, who didn't receive timely treatment and had poor resistance, couldn't withstand the onslaught of the virus and died in agony within a matter of days.
The bodies, eroded by the virus, could not be buried in the earth, and despite their profound grief, the bereaved followed the government's directive and consented to cremation. In the end, they chose a spot to bury the ashes, ensuring their lost loved ones had a place to rest, so they wouldn't end up as lonely, wandering ghosts.