This expedition was different from the previous ones, as Bai Zhizhan wasn't on the "Pu" but instead made the "Qinling" the flagship.
In fact, this was to give face to Li Mingbo.
Although the soldiers of the 21st Special Mixed Fleet knew who Li Mingbo was, they all treated him as the Chief of Staff rather than the Commander.
If Bai Zhizhan had remained on the "Pu," it would have been very awkward.
In the eyes of many veteran soldiers, Bai Zhizhan was their Commander, and he was the only one qualified to be their Commander.
In fact, the current team of the 21st Special Mixed Fleet was essentially Bai Zhizhan's direct lineage.
Many officers, especially those at the mid-to-high ranks such as captains, had forsaken opportunities for promotion multiple times in order to follow Bai Zhizhan.
Bai Zhizhan staying on the "Pu" would have only made Li Mingbo's title of Commander a mere formality.
