Chapter 142:
Five days later, Songtsan Gampo returned to Tubo, not heading directly to the capital city of Luoxie but to the old city of Pibo in the southern mountains. Here, he encountered envoys from various other tribes that surrounded the northwest border of the Tang Dynasty.
Why has Zanpu suddenly summoned us? What important matter does he wish to discuss? questioned Bayegu Zhang, the representative from the Nine Clans of the Tiele people and the young chieftain of the Bayegu tribe, whose age was similar to that of Songtsan Gampo.
Observing the assembly of tribal envoys before him, Songtsan Gampo concealed a cold smile. Having tirelessly engaged in warfare and governance during his years as the Khan, he had finally succeeded in uniting Tubo into a genuine nation. Yet, these tribes before him, most of which hadnt even established their own khanates, made him feel a sense of superiority.
In the past, whether it was the nine-surnamed Tiele or other tribes, they had coexisted peacefully with Tubo. But Songtsan Gampo knew that Tubo had its agenda for the other tribes. However, the tribes were not overly concerned, as they understood that the dominant power on this land was the Tang Dynasty.
For centuries, various powers like the Huns, Turks, and Tubans had risen and fallen, but the central authority in the land remained the Tang Dynasty. The Huns, once invincible, had disappeared. The Khagan of the Eastern Turks had been humbled by the Tang Emperor and forced to entertain with music and dance. What did Tubo have that was different?
These envoys knew about the recent conflict between Tubo and the Tang Dynasty and were aware that the Tang Dynasty had already dispatched an army. In their eyes, Tubos favorable days were numbered.
Songtsan Gampo accurately read the expressions of these envoys and couldnt help but disdain their short-sightedness. Despite this, he spoke with utmost sincerity, masking his true feelings.
Everyone, you must all understand the recent situation in Tubo. I invite everyone to come today because I want to negotiate a deal with your tribes! said Songtsan Gampo.
Ultimately, they signed an alliance with Tubo, agreeing to provide provisions and horses for the Tubo army in the early stages. Additionally, these tribes were permitted to gather soldiers and horses around Tubos territory, ready to swiftly advance into the Tang Dynastys heartland after Tubos initial battle victory.
During the alliance, Songtsan Gampo gestured towards the tombs of past Zanpus nearby, assuring the envoys, The ancestors of generations past bear witness to this, and you can rest assured!
Late at night, Songtsan Gampo watched as the envoys departed on their horses. His warm smile transformed into an icy cold expression. The tribes believed they had pinpointed Tubos vulnerability, yet they remained unaware that they had already placed themselves in a dangerous situation.
Songtsan Gampos true intentions likely didnt involve allying with other tribes. The real aim of the 50,000-strong Tang dynasty army was focused on Tubo (Tibet). When facing the might of the Tang dynasty, Tubo would undoubtedly feel immense pressure. Seeking alliances with tribes was likely to share this burden and confront the Tang dynasty together, acting as a contingency plan.
After defeating the Tang army, Songtsan Gampo might absorb the forces of these tribes. Mentioning imitating the Turks ways was a tactic to rally tribes. Songtsan Gampo understood this well. While the Tang dynasty might be wealthy, directly threatening Changan wasnt likely. The best outcome involved seizing cities and territory. A surprise attack after victory could weaken neighboring powers. Songtsan Gampo envisioned establishing dominance and prosperity for Tubo through careful planning.
As Songtsan Gampo left Song Zhou, the Tang army marched rapidly, possibly already reaching the city. The battle might have begun if the supreme commander led the Tang forces. If Lu Dongzans swift actions progressed, the situation should be decided. Songtsan Gampo smiled, knowing his plans were progressing.
Outside Song Zhou, Lu Dongzan, highly regarded by Songtsan Gampo, felt vexed. Hearing of the Tang armys rapid march, he organized his troops. With 150,000 Tibetan soldiers, they set up camp near Song Zhou City. Lu Dongzan believed he understood the Tang dynasty and saw through their tactics. The true commander, Li Daozong, might orchestrate a smokescreen to fool Tubo. Lu Dongzan intercepted Tang forces to avoid falling for these tactics.
Suddenly, a scout reported that fifty thousand lightly armed cavalry had entered Song Zhou City. Lu Dongzan was surprised. Had the troops marched so quickly? Why was Li Daozong so anxious?
