Hu Xiaotian said, "I never intended to cause a slaughter. Mr. Wang, do you truly wish to save these people?"
Wang Boxi nodded, hope showing in his eyes.
Hu Xiaotian said, "Ma Xingkong was the chief culprit. I heard he has a son as well. Sorry for the trouble, Mr. Wang, but please find him for me."
Wang Boxi shook his head. "He's already gone!"
Hu Xiaotian looked skeptical.
Wang Boxi said, "Jadeheart Mountain has a secret waterway, and it is not as simple as what you have seen, my lord. If you agree to spare the others, humble though my abilities are, I am willing to reveal all of Jadeheart Mountain's secrets."
Hu Xiaotian had never intended to massacre the stronghold. Hearing Wang Boxi's terms, he secretly rejoiced, but said coldly, "Why should I believe you?"
Wang Boxi said, "My worthless life is nothing to mourn. But today's bloodshed was brought about by my own hand. Heaven cherishes life, and I have heard that you have always been benevolent, my lord. I beg you to spare the people on this island. I know what gives you pause. You must fear that they will seek revenge against you someday. I have Blackwater Stronghold's roster. Aside from Young Chieftain Ma Zhongtian and three others who escaped, every commander, high and low, has been captured. I can help you identify them. You may imprison and behead us, and we will have no complaints. Once we are dead, you will naturally have no need to worry about Blackwater Stronghold's people taking revenge."
Hu Xiaotian did not answer his request directly. Instead, he asked quietly, "Blackwater Stronghold is ingeniously built, with mechanisms everywhere. Who designed it?"
Wang Boxi said, "I did!"
Hu Xiaotian made no attempt to hide his admiration for Wang Boxi. "Mr.