Song Qingshu's heart tightened. If things truly reached an irreparable point, then even if he had to expose his identity, he would have to save Lin Pingzhi.
The soldiers under Li Qinglu stepped forward, preparing to take Lin Pingzhi away. Lin Pingzhi suddenly threw back his head and sighed. "I have failed the general's kindness and cannot accomplish this great task."
"Wait!" Li Qinglu raised her hand, stopping her subordinates from taking him away. She then walked up to Lin Pingzhi and looked down at him. "Have you thought it through?"
Lin Pingzhi's expression shifted unpredictably, clearly showing that he was engaged in a fierce internal struggle. Li Qinglu seized the opportunity to say, "No matter what, you will have to talk eventually. Rather than suffer endless torture by speaking late, you might as well confess early and spare yourself the pain. We will not treat you unfairly."
Lin Pingzhi finally spoke. "If I confess, will you spare my life?"
"Of course." Seeing his resolve waver, Li Qinglu could not help feeling delighted. At last, you will talk.
Lin Pingzhi continued, "I need a guarantee."
Li Qinglu frowned, but in the end, she snorted and raised the imperial gold plaque in her hand. "I am Princess Yinchuan of Western Xia, directly under His Majesty's command. To see this token is as if seeing the emperor himself! An emperor's word is never a joke. Having promised before so many people, how could I go back on my word and tarnish His Majesty's reputation? Furthermore, I can promise you this: as long as you tell us everything truthfully, not only will I spare your life, I will ensure that you enjoy wealth and glory for the rest of your days."
Only then did Lin Pingzhi relax. His eyes glanced toward his feet.