After Yang Lingqi left, Liang Yinghao came to report to Hu Xiaotian on the progress of the underground works. Following Hu Xiaotian's instructions, he had led his men in digging a network of tunnels beneath Fengyi Manor. To preserve secrecy, he had divided the excavation into separate sections; only he and two core members knew the true underground layout. Liang Yinghao believed Hu Xiaotian wanted these tunnels as a precaution against unforeseen trouble. If the manor were ever besieged, they could escape at their leisure through the underground passages.
Liang Yinghao had also brought a map, and he pointed out the three exits he had reserved, one by one.
Hu Xiaotian nodded, expressing his appreciation for the abilities of Liang Yinghao and his brothers. Having them dig tunnels beneath Fengyi Manor served two purposes: it provided a safeguard for the future, and it tested the capabilities of the Turbid Water Gang members led by Liang Yinghao. With this Underground Excavation Team, his future plans would receive tremendous help.
Hu Xiaotian put the map away and told Liang Yinghao, "This matter must not be disclosed to anyone besides you and me."
Liang Yinghao nodded. "Rest assured, Prefect. I've kept my men under strict control. Even if someone knows we have a tunnel beneath Fengyi Manor, they won't know its exact location. This is the only map. The other copy is in my head."
Hu Xiaotian said, "Once the digging is finished, seal every entrance and exit. We won't use the tunnels unless absolutely necessary."
"Understood!" Liang Yinghao replied respectfully.
Hu Xiaotian said, "Yinghao, if I asked you to dig an underground passage a hundred li long, would it be possible?"
Liang Yinghao froze at the question. "What?" His first thought was that Hu Xiaotian wanted to dig a tunnel leading to