Two days later, in the northern territory of Tubo, nestled within a valley, Bayegu Zhang briskly entered a tent. He complained about the harsh Tubo weather, remarking on the unseasonable cold even before autumn had arrived. Seeking warmth, he approached the tents fire pit and poured himself a cup of butter tea. After taking a sip, he finally felt a bit more comfortable.
Looking around at the gathered individuals, he chuckled and inquired, Is everyone present? Whats the current topic of discussion? This location was where Songtsan Gampo had pledged to establish a camp for the allied tribes. Thirteen tribes with tens of thousands of warriors had set up here, eagerly awaiting Tubos victory over the Tang army so they could join the fray.
However, the wait had stretched on, causing growing anxiety. Bayegu Zhang hailed from the Bayegu tribe, which had close ties to Liangzhou and was familiar with regional events.
At first, I had concerns about Songtsan Gampos audacity in allowing us to camp in his territory, but now it seems I was overly cautious, lanted one tribal chieftain, eliciting nods of agreent from the others. While Songtsan Gampo might have had designs on their tribes, they were also eyeing Tubos fertile land.
Yet, after experiencing the effects of altitude sickness upon entering the plateau, their warriors had fallen ill, significantly reducing their combat strength. Although the symptoms had eased sowhat, they still felt weakened.
At this juncture, Bayegu Zhang casually asked, Are you all genuinely planning to align with Tubo against the Tang? His question startled the tribal chieftains.
The Tang Empire is renowned for its wealth. Even if we simply follow Tubo for so take, it could enrich our entire tribe for years, he continued. From what I gather about Songtsan Gampos intentions, this opportunity is nearly certain. If we dont join now, there might not be another chance.
So chieftains eagerly discussed the potential benefits of another alliance like the Wei River Alliance, emphasizing the imnse gains they could reap.
However, Bayegu Zhang, despite his youth, wore a skeptical smile. His Bayegu tribe, part of the Nine-Clan Coalition, had a closer relationship with the Tang and understood the depth of their strength. Their view of the Wei River Alliance differed from the others, seeing it as the Turk seizing an opportunity during the Tangs instability, with an unfortunate fate once the Tang retaliated.
Bayegu Zhang reminded them of the Turks downfall and the eventual demise of tribes like the Huns when confronting the Central Plains dynasties. Despite their monts of triumph, they ultimately t bleak ends.
It appeared that investing in Tubo might not be worthwhile. Bayegu Zhang dropped the bombshell news, Tubo has already suffered a major defeat. Just a few days ago, the Tang army routed the 150,000-strong army led by Lu Dongzan. The Tubo army was utterly annihilated, and Lu Dongzan was personally beheaded by Su Li, the Tang armys commander.
His words left the tent in stunned silence, with various chieftains displaying a mix of surprise, relief, and a tinge of excitent.
There was no hint of dismay among the tribal chieftains. In their eyes, the Tubo peoples defeat at the hands of the Tang army seed like a natural outco. Soon, passionate discussions erupted.
Perhaps the alliance should persist, but we must ensure the Tang doesnt extend their influence too deeply into our territory!
The Tang might not have a genuine interest in our remote regions. This situation could be an opportunity for us. Gentlen, Tubos morale must be at an all-ti low. How about we gather our forces and attack Tubo together?
This matter requires careful consideration. However, dealing with Songtsan Gampo wont be a walk in the park
Amidst the cacophony of voices, the tribal leaders deliberated on their respective strategies to navigate the situation. Bayegu Zhang interjected with a smile, directing their attention towards him.
Regardless of what unfolds next, theres sothing we must do imdiately, he declared. As all eyes turned to him, he continued, We must learn from the Turks downfall, which is still fresh in our mories. Now, the Tang Empire has set its sights on Tubo. Gentlen, wouldnt you like to know the Tang Empires intentions?
His words sent a shockwave through the tent, prompting reflection. They realized that over the years, the Tang Empire had not treated neighboring tribes well, with small-scale conflicts in the Western Regions. Except for the Tu Valley tribe, which had swiftly submitted to the Tang, other tribes had t unfavorable fatesfirst the Turks, now Tubo. Weaker tribes had no reason to believe they would escape a similar fate.
Bayegu Zhangs words served as a wake-up call. Before long, the tribal chieftains reached a consensus, they would send envoys to Changan to directly inquire about Li Ers intentions.
As the sole gateway connecting the southwestern border to the Tang Empire, Song Zhou beca the chosen route for these tribal envoys. Over the past few days, their numbers had steadily increased.
Su Li, still holding the highest-ranking position in Song Zhou, learned of these developnts quickly. After discreet inquiries, he grasped the envoys intentions. He locked himself in his quarters, diligently drafting morial letters, determined to achieve everything at once. These Northwestern tribes, as long as they were sowhat powerful, fell within Su Lis calculated scope of influence.
But before he could make his move, these potential allies had sensed sothing amiss and sought answers directly from the hunters lair. Su Li found himself wondering if their sixth sense was truly that sharp.
However, he had no choice but to compose a morial letter, clearly expressing his thoughts to Li Er. He believed he understood Li Ers character fairly well. While Li Er cared about his reputation and coveted glory, he wasnt a fool. While tribal praise might give him montary satisfaction, expanding the Tang Empires territory would undoubtedly bring him greater joy.
After all, was it better to enjoy fleeting pleasure or revel in a lifeti of happiness? Li Er could undoubtedly distinguish between the two options.
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