Li Tianheng had completely regained his composure. He slowly set down the cup of tea that had already gone cold and fixed his deep gaze on Zhang Ziqian. "Brother Ziqian, what do you think?" In Western Sichuan, the man he relied on most was Zhang Ziqian. Whenever he faced a crucial decision, he sought Zhang Ziqian's advice. It was precisely thanks to his help that he had come this far.
Zhang Ziqian said, "Commander-in-Chief, you must make a decision."
Li Tianheng said, "That is why I wanted your opinion."
Zhang Ziqian said, "The longer you delay, the more likely unforeseen complications become. When generals intend to rebel, you must act decisively and suppress them without hesitation. You cannot allow this to spread. You must find the root of it, identify their accomplices, and catch them all in one net." He paused, then lowered his voice. "In my view, this must have something to do with Great Kang. The Imperial Court understands the same principle: if they can bring you under their control, they may be able to regain control of Western Sichuan. You must be careful, Commander-in-Chief."
Li Tianheng remained silent. Though Zhang Ziqian had phrased it tactfully, he understood what he meant. Western Sichuan was under the Li Family's control, but his foundations were far from secure. His soldiers had respected him and the people had supported him because he had marched under the banner of loyalty to the Imperial Court. Once the soldiers and civilians discovered that his true aim was to rebel and establish an independent regime, internal divisions would be inevitable. The authority he had accumulated over the years might keep them in check, but if anything happened to him, there was no telling what would follow.
Li Tianheng rose and slowly paced a few steps.