Li Kexiu's heart skipped a beat. Somewhat unnaturally, he said, "What else could I be planning?" Terror welled up within him. Could Song Qingshu truly be so omniscient that he even knew their plans?
Song Qingshu merely smiled. "Shouldn't Uncle Li be making plans for how to merge with the Golden Snake Camp?"
Li Kexiu froze, then let out a great sigh of relief and burst into laughter. "Of course, of course."
Looking toward where the Southern Song delegation was staying, Song Qingshu said calmly, "Previously, Uncle Li was worried that choosing the Golden Snake Camp would provoke a fierce reaction from the Southern Song. I have now settled everything. Not only have we gained the Southern Song's recognition, but we also have the Mongol Empire's support. On top of that, I can influence the decisions of the Jin and Qing courts to a certain extent. Our situation is excellent now. We only need to seize this opportunity and thoroughly integrate the Golden Snake Camp with Uncle Li's Green Standard Army into one whole. Then, should the realm fall into turmoil someday, we can rise with the tide."
A trace of guilt flashed through Li Kexiu's eyes, but he quickly concealed it. "My worthy nephew is absolutely right. We do need to prepare for a rainy day."
Seeing that no one was around, Song Qingshu said, "Could I speak with Uncle Li privately? Since our two families are joining forces, some matters are confidential."
"Of course, of course," Li Kexiu said, turning sideways. "Come with me, worthy nephew."
Song Qingshu followed Li Kexiu into his study, where the two began discussing the details of their future cooperation.
Worried about slighting Li Kexiu, Song Qingshu had consistently looked after the other man's interests. The requests he made were all reasonable, aimed