This was likely because Mansa's first impression of Fang Zhen was formed when he dueled Tarrenno, making him appear as just a valiant warrior, not a capable Commander-in-Chief or a proper Lord.
Fang Zhen looked at Mansa and said, "Speak your mind. Be direct."
"I'm open-minded enough to hear you out."
Mansa nodded slightly and said, "My lord, I know what you're thinking. After all, everyone hopes for, and needs, their army and subordinates to be absolutely obedient."
"But you will face two problems."
"First, while you effectively control the former Balenzuo Army and your current Augustus Army, your status as a Duke has not yet been recognized by the King according to the Kingdom's laws and traditions."
"Therefore, you can only be called a self-proclaimed Duke for now."
"Under these circumstances, it will be nearly impossible to make all the nobles within the Balenzuo and Tarrenno Duchies—which you wish to unify—submit to you willingly."
