Hong Tianzheng's point made Mo Li's expression change. In truth, he was equally worried about the matter of military authority.
Si Peng showed no particular reaction. What Hong Tianzheng had raised was not at all far-fetched; it was a situation very likely to occur, and he had to be prepared for it as well.
"I had considered this too. So, Tianzheng, I want you to stay behind, hold the overall situation steady, and command the army.
"First, it will prevent Xiang Qing's people from causing trouble and seizing military authority while we are away.
"Second, your wife's safety can also be guaranteed. I imagine you would be more inclined toward this arrangement, wouldn't you?"
Si Peng was naturally a clever man. He had long since identified Hong Tianzheng's weak spot: Madam Hong.
That was why he could set aside factional differences and invite Luo Ning to act, joining him in purging the power of frost from Madam Hong and easing her suffering. In doing so, he won Hong Tianzheng's favor and brought him under his command.
Now, he would not make such an obvious mistake as exposing Hong Tianzheng's wife to unknown danger, thereby shaking Hong Tianzheng's loyalty to him.
Thus, he wanted Hong Tianzheng to remain. On the one hand, this great general was truly capable, highly skilled in martial arts, and immensely prestigious. He could win the support and allegiance of their faction, ensuring they would not be defeated one by one.
On the other hand, it was actually connected to Si Peng's wariness and suspicion toward Meng Zhao.
Who was Si Peng? As one of the leaders of the two major factions within the Divine Might Army, his informants were spread throughout the army. No rustle of wind or stir of grass could escape his notice. Naturally,