Wang Chengzong
Meanwhile, Wu Yuanji's allies Wang Chengzong the military governor of Chengde Circuit (成德, headquartered in modern Shijiazhuang, Hebei) and Li Shidao the military governor of Pinglu Circuit (平盧, headquartered in modern Tai'an, Shandong), were repeatedly pleading on Wu Yuanji's behalf for an imperial pardon, but Emperor Xianzong refused their requests. A group of assassins that Li Shidao had retained persuaded Li Shidao that if Wu Yuanheng were assassinated, the other chancellors would be fearful and would urge an end of the campaign. Li Shidao agreed and sent them to Chang'an to prepare to assassinate Wu Yuanheng. Meanwhile, Wang had sent his officer Yin Shaoqing () to report to Wu Yuanheng; when Yin did, Yin was insolent, and Wu Yuanheng had him expelled from the office of chancellors. Thereafter, Wang submitted petitions defaming Wu Yuanheng.