Chapter 127:
Only the weeping of the Tubo envoy could be heard in the main hall.
Su Li smirked and stated, If Tubo is genuinely loyal to the Tang Dynasty, crystal clear like day and night, then a matrimonial alliance is trifling. I might even think weve treated you unfairly.
The Tubo envoy hurriedly bowed to Su Li, tears in his eyes as he said, Tubo only seeks to form a marital connection with the Tang Dynasty, and we dare not request anything further!
However, Su Li did not heed the envoys words and continued speaking.
Ive heard that Songtsan Gampo boasts everywhere that he has become the ruler of Tubo. But as far as I know, theres another country named Yangtong on the plateau that hasnt been incorporated into Tubo.
The Tubo envoys jaw dropped, looking surprised at Su Li.
Su Li smiled at the envoy and said, Yangtong is an ancient nation with a populace of hundreds of thousands. Tubos conflict with them remains uncertain regarding victory or defeat.
The Tubo envoy looked baffled, not comprehending Su Lis intentions.
Since Tubo recognizes the Tang Dynasty as its suzerain, its the responsibility of the Tang Dynasty to protect Tubos safety. How about this? My Tang Dynasty will dispatch 50,000 soldiers and horses to Tubo. You need only provide funds and provisions. We can aid in fortifying your defense and guarding your borders. During the conflict between our nations, youll have nothing to be concerned about in your rear.
As Su Lis words concluded, silence enveloped the main hall.
Li Er and his court were left dumbfounded.
This is unexpected!
We had merely dared to contemplate cementing relations through a matrimonial alliance.
Yet Su Li directly stationed troops in their heartland!
Did he dare to understand that?
The Tubo envoy blinked repeatedly, his expression one of confusion. He wondered if he was still in a dream, yet to awaken.
Or else, why would this young general propose such an eccentric idea?
Nevertheless, Su Li remained composed.
Managing the relations between a powerful nation and its vassals wasnt as straightforward as merely acknowledging a son.
At the very least, according to Su Lis comprehension, a three-step routine of entertaining, feasting, and treating subordinates as dogs was the most pragmatic approach.
Desired a life of luxury?
No issue. Lucrative transactions abound.
After all, regardless of how much he earned, it would ultimately be mine as long as he desired it.
But did you fantasize about breaking free from the leash?
Keep dreaming!
In general, where could his son find a well-behaved dog?
Raising a son with good food and drinks might easily make him ungrateful.
A loyal dog was good; it could also follow commands to bite specific people.
Su Li didnt stop but continued speaking.
Tubos governance methods are primitive. Even the officials helping Zanpu lack education. As the leader of Tubo, the Tang Dynasty cant tolerate this. Sending officials to assist Zanpu in governance and educate local officials would be beneficial.
The Tubo envoy was speechless, mumbling, How could this behow could this be
Su Li smirked, asking, Why not? Goguryeo and Japan seek Tangs cultural essence through envoys, yet Tubo benefits more extensively. Cant Tang satisfy Songtsan Gampo?
Things that people beg for, were giving to you directly, even delivering to your doorstep. If you refuse this, dont you lack appreciation?
Goguryeo and Japan learn from Tang, but dont invade your territory.
However, Su Lis words left the Tubo envoy at a loss for a retort.
The envoy felt helpless. Su Li hadnt finished yet.
Also, I heard your Zanpu ascended at twelve, busy with wars, lacking time for kingship. Martial prowess needs balance. Invite him to Changan to learn kingship from our Emperor. With guidance, he could become a capable ruler!
The Tubo envoy was utterly perplexed.
Could the ruler truly treat Li Er like a father figure?
The envoy was deeply frustrated.
He stammered and refused, Tubo understands the kindness of your country. But Tubo has just been unified, and Zanpu is busy with affairs. Im afraid Im afraid
Su Lis expression suddenly turned cold.
Oh? Even the Crown Prince of the Tang Dynasty might not receive such treatment from His Majesty. With such conditions, your Tubo realm is dissatisfied. Didnt you say that Songtsan Gampo has long admired the Central Plains? Is he genuinely interested, or is he just pretending?
The Tubo envoy was deeply troubled.
Su Li put forward three consecutive conditions, which were outrageous and impossible for Tubo to accept.
They said that the Xia Dynasty valued the demeanor of a gentleman, so how could there be such an extraordinary minister?
Then, he saw Su Li turn his head to face Li Ers direction.
Your Majesty, Tubo claims to want to establish a marital relationship with the Tang Dynasty, but they refuse to accept the kindness shown by the Tang Dynasty. Evidently, the Tubo people have ambitious intentions and no respect for the Tang Dynasty!
Li Er and his officials stared, fixedly looking at Su Li.
Youve deduced all of this Truly, youre quite the genius!
Su Li turned back to the Tubo envoy and smiled, Songtsan Gampo keeps saying he wants to treat His Majesty like a father, but when faced with the goodwill of the Tang Dynasty, theyre unwilling to offer any substantial benefits. This is not just playing with the world but also with Your Majesty! Do you think that Your Majesty cant see through their intentions?
Upon hearing this, Li Er felt embarrassed and rubbed his nose, not daring to say anything.
The Tubo envoy angrily shouted, Tubos devotion to the Tang Dynasty is clear for all to see! General Su, why resort to such provocative language?
Why?
Su Lis gaze turned icy.
Just because Tubo dares to threaten the Tang Dynasty! Just because the Tang Dynasty is a hundred times stronger than Tubo!
The Tubo envoy clenched his teeth and said coldly, 200,000 Tubo archers are stationed outside Song Zhou City. General, arent you worried about the safety of the people of the Tang Dynasty?
Su Li grinned, revealing his white teeth.
The benevolence of my Tang Dynasty is boundless. Those who are loyal receive help. Those who are righteous and martial prosper. But those who challenge us will be defeated no matter how strong. If Tubo refuses, they can try!
Go back and tell Songtsan Gampo that he must agree to my demands if he wants a marital alliance. Otherwise, immediately withdraw your troops and relinquish the land youve taken from Tubo. Otherwise, the might of Tangs army will march straight into Tubo.
The Tubo envoy stared in disbelief at Su Li.
In his eyes, this young general with rosy lips and white teeth had transformed into a demon.
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