noffsinger Chapter 341: Envoys from the Arab Empire
Chapter 341: Envoys from the Arab Empire
The lights were just coming on, and the palace was brightly lit. At the banquet, three rounds of wine had been served, and the fine wine was rippling in the cups. The delicacies had been prepared, and the aroma of delicacies filled the air.
The envoys from various countries were dressed in gorgeous clothes and had different thoughts. They felt the heavy grace of the Tang Dynasty.
At this moment, the Johor envoy could no longer contain his excitement. He hurried forward, straightened his robe, took a deep breath, and then bowed respectfully. His voice trembled slightly with excitement: "Your Majesty, our Johor Kingdom wishes to be incorporated into the territory of the Tang Dynasty. I sincerely request Your Majesty's approval!"
The joy on that flushed face was so widespread that it was almost impossible to conceal.
This year, the Kingdom of Johor put in all its efforts and paid tribute with a considerable number of trefoil trees.
Johor was just a small country in a remote corner. Surrounded by powerful countries, its military was simply unable to defend its small territory.
For them, the Tang Dynasty was majestic and powerful. Becoming a part of it would undoubtedly be a great opportunity given by God and the only choice to preserve the country's destiny.
Moreover, Johor also produced a talented man named Ma Zha, who was fortunate enough to obtain an official position in Chang'an. He was able to get along well with everyone in the officialdom of the Tang Dynasty and was like a fish in water. This also built an invisible bridge between Johor and the Tang Dynasty, making the Johor envoys more confident that the hope of success of this request was great.
The Johor envoy's words instantly caused a huge uproar.
The envoys from those countries that also had trefoil trees in their countries exchanged meaningful glances with each other, and after understanding each other, they straightened their clothes and strode out with their heads held high.
In an instant, there were as many as thirteen envoys from small countries who came forward to request to join the Tang Dynasty.
Some of them looked solemn, their eyes full of anticipation, while others were a little nervous, but still revealed a sense of determination, all of them eager to integrate into the Tang Dynasty and become a part of it.
Li Shimin sat upright on the side seat and witnessed this scene. The corners of his mouth unconsciously rose and an irrepressible smile flashed in his eyes.
In his opinion, this was simply God's favor to the Tang Dynasty, as it was able to take over so many territories for no reason. Such an achievement would surely be engraved in history books forever for future generations to admire and praise.
Li Chengqian's face was as calm as water. His deep gaze swept over the envoys calmly. He smiled and said slowly, "My dear envoys, I have deeply felt your sincerity."
He paused slightly, and the entire palace fell silent in an instant, with everyone listening attentively.
"But I once said that the land with the three-leaf tree is the land of the Great Tang Dynasty, but it does not include your entire country."
As soon as these words were spoken, the envoys' enthusiasm was instantly dispelled.
They stood there in a daze, their expressions frozen in an instant.
Suddenly the situation became a little awkward.
Even Li Shimin was slightly stunned and looked at Li Chengqian with confusion. He really didn't understand why he would give up this great territory that was delivered to his doorstep.
But he knew that silence was golden at this moment, so he just teased the cute and tender grandson in his arms leisurely with the gentle assistance of the maid, burying all his doubts deep in his heart.
Li Chengqian saw the envoys' embarrassed expressions and said in a gentle voice, "My dear envoys, I know that you are concerned about the Tang Dynasty."
"Although I cannot fully incorporate your country into the Tang Dynasty for the time being, wherever there are three-leaf trees, that is the territory of the Tang Dynasty."
"You only need to pay tribute of hevea gum on time every year, and you will become a permanent ally of the Tang Dynasty. If any other country dares to invade our borders in the future, I will command my powerful army to seek justice for you!"
Upon hearing this, the envoys' faces disappeared and were replaced by joy.
This is even better! Not only can we safeguard our country's sovereignty, but we can also get the protection of the Tang Dynasty!
They hurriedly saluted, their words of gratitude overflowing. Although they had failed to achieve their original goal of joining the Tang Dynasty, receiving such a solemn promise of protection from the Tang Dynasty was a solid guarantee for these small countries.
After returning home, this matter will surely become a popular topic on the streets, highlighting the country's brilliant diplomatic achievements.
The Arab envoy Muhammad stood quietly by, watching this dramatic scene with great interest.
There had been no formal diplomatic exchanges between the Arab Empire and the Tang Dynasty before.
This time he led an envoy from afar to Chang'an, and it was also the first time he met the famous Emperor of the Tang Dynasty.
The reason for this diplomatic mission was that the Tang Dynasty had purchased a large number of Kunlun slaves from the Arab Empire in recent years. This unusual move caused a lot of speculation in the Arab Empire. Eager to find out what the intentions of this eastern neighbor were, the Arab Empire sent Muhammad to lead an envoy to find out.
The moment Muhammad stepped into Chang'an, he was shocked beyond words by the magnificent scene before him.
The grandeur of Chang'an far exceeded his imagination. The Tang Dynasty had a profound foundation and extraordinary strength, but the Arab Empire was also in a glorious period of rapid expansion. Its vast territory spanned the three continents of Asia, Europe and Africa, and it was a powerful force in all directions.
Deep in his heart, he had a vague premonition that the Tang Dynasty in the East might one day become the strongest opponent of the Arab Empire.
But at this moment, there is no rift between the two countries and they can still be called friends.
Muhammad calmly adjusted his signature turban and, with a smile on his face, walked steadily to the center of the hall. Following Tang Dynasty etiquette, he gracefully bowed slightly and saluted, saying, "Your Majesty, the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty, Muhammad, the envoy of the Arab Empire, greets you." His voice was magnetic, and despite the accent, it still attracted everyone's attention.
The Arab Empire is also a behemoth!
Many people believe that the Arab Empire is no weaker than the Tang Dynasty.
Li Chengqian nodded slightly and replied with a gentle smile: "You speak the Tang language very well. The Tang Dynasty welcomes your Arab friends."
"Thank you, His Majesty the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty."
Muhammad bowed again in thanks, then stood up and said sincerely, "Your Majesty, as a token of respect for Your Majesty, I, the monarch of the Arab Empire, have specially ordered you to bring me two rare and exotic animals from the Arab Empire."