Song Qingshu then began summoning Helian Tieshu's trusted subordinates under Helian Tieshu's identity, finding out who was fiercely loyal, who could be won over, and who would sit on the fence. He silently memorized each person's character and sphere of influence for use in the near future.
Though he was completely unfamiliar with these people, Song Qingshu was already highly practiced at impersonation. His mental fortitude was now exceptionally strong; even if something unexpected happened, he could quickly smooth it over. Besides, after reviewing official documents the previous day, he had gained a rough understanding of these subordinates' temperaments and traits.
Judging by the time, Lingjiu Palace's forces should arrive within the next few days. Li Qinglu was more familiar with those people, but First Rank Hall had once been Lingjiu Palace's mortal enemy. It was hard to say whether both sides had not stained their hands with each other's blood. If she were sent, the hatred between the two sides might instead ruin things. After careful consideration, he still sent Yelü Nanxian out of the palace with a token to receive them. Once she had met them, she would arrange for them to hide near Lingzhou City and let them enter the city only after receiving the signal.
As for Mu Wanqing and Qin Hongmian, Song Qingshu had the two of them secretly contact the Mu Family and the Qin Family's remaining forces. Although Mu Wanqing was inexperienced in worldly affairs, she was not stupid, and she had the older Qin Hongmian to help her—though Qin Hongmian had much the same temperament, she had been Princess Consort for so many years and had over a decade more life experience. For something as simple as gathering former subordinates, the two of them could barely manage it together.
After Song Qingshu