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Chapter 1273 All Nations Come to Yanqi City
With the Tang army recapturing Tingzhou, Yizhou, Guazhou, and Shazhou, the Western Regions will inevitably face years of warfare, urgently requiring an efficient intelligence network.

On the surface, Lin Hao instructed Kang Huaien to lead a caravan to trade with other tribes in the Western Regions, but in reality, he wanted Kang Huaien to systematically gather intelligence on the military, troop deployments, and internal conflicts of forces such as the Tubo and Karluks during the trade process.

They attempted to contact and win over the leaders in various parts of the Western Regions who were dissatisfied with Tibet, in order to gather more usable forces for the Tang Dynasty.

Lin Hao's purpose in allowing the armor trade was to sell it specifically to the enemy of the enemy.

This was done to support the forces resisting Tibet, forcing them to submit to the Tang Dynasty and ensuring long-term peace and stability in the Western Regions.

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The horses' hooves kicked up dust outside Tingzhou City, and the victorious army finally returned to the capital of the Beiting Protectorate.

At the front of the procession, Lin Hao reined in his horse and exchanged a few final words with Kang Huaien, who was about to embark on his journey.

"Huai'en, the goods list has been verified to be correct. The first batch of iron pots, weapons and other goods must be delivered accurately to test the market reaction."

"The matter of redeeming the remaining people is of paramount importance. Every clue, no matter how small, must be recorded and reported!" Lin Hao's voice was steady, revealing little emotion.

Kang Huaien bowed deeply on horseback, surprised by the great trust placed in him by Commander Lin, and realizing the heavy responsibility on his shoulders. He then said excitedly:

"Rest assured, Grand Commander, I understand the implications and will certainly live up to your trust and do my utmost to find our scattered citizens of the Great Tang!"

He paused, then said in a low voice, "I will keep an eye on the movements of all the units along the way!"

Lin Hao nodded slightly and said no more. Kang Huaien was a smart man, and it was enough to stop there.

He had already dispatched fast horses to Luntai to transport supplies. Now that Kang Huaien had arrived in Tingzhou, he could set off immediately with the goods without needing to rest, and strike while the iron was hot to quickly expand his business and intelligence network.

The procession continued onward, and as they approached the city, they saw the city gates wide open, and a troop of soldiers in bright armor escorted an old man out to greet them.

The old man was none other than Guo Xin, the Grand Protector of Anxi and Prince of the Tang Dynasty.

Upon seeing this, Lin Hao and Yang Xigu, who were riding side by side, immediately dismounted.

"Prince Guo, why have you come to greet me personally?" Yang Xigu stepped forward, his tone filled with respect and a hint of surprise.

Guo Xin, stationed in Kucha, is the pillar of Anxi's stability. Now that he has personally come to Tingzhou in Beiting, I suspect he has something important to discuss with me.

Guo Xin stroked his beard and smiled, his gaze sweeping over Lin Hao and Yang Xigu, as well as the high-spirited army behind them, a look of satisfaction in his eyes as he said:
"Governor Yang and Governor Lin, you have worked hard! How could I, an old man, sit idly in Kucha after learning of your triumphant return?"

"This eastern expedition not only demonstrated the might of our Great Tang army, but also recovered our two prefectures of Sha and Gua. It is truly a great victory that has not been seen in recent decades!"

"I have come to Tingzhou, firstly to welcome the meritorious officials, and secondly to guard your rear and prevent any villains from taking advantage of the situation."

"Thank you for your concern, Your Highness!" Lin Hao looked around, then said with a smile, "This is not the place to talk. Let's go inside the city and talk about it!"

The group entered the city together, and after settling down at the Protectorate General's office, the three of them began to chat.

Lin Hao briefly recounted his eastern expedition, from breaking through the siege of Shazhou City to the bitter battle at Guazhou, and finally to making a pact with the Uyghur leader Jieyujias.

Guo Xin listened carefully, and upon hearing this, he finally sighed deeply, a hint of envy in his eyes, and said:

"What a pity! What a pity! I was unable to stand shoulder to shoulder with you two and personally experience such a thrilling battle! Kucha is far from Shazhou, and I can only imagine the heroic figures of my men defeating the enemy."

There was no jealousy in his words, only heartfelt joy for the Tang Dynasty's victory and a hint of regret for not being able to participate.

Yang Xigu laughed and said, "Your Highness, don't be anxious. Jieyuqis has already made an agreement with us that when the grass is green and the horses are fat next year, we will jointly attack the Karluks!"

"At that time, we also hope to recover the lost territories of Anxi (Shule and Khotan), and we will need the Prince's strong support then as well!"

Upon hearing this, Guo Xin's spirits immediately lifted, and his eyes gleamed as he said:
"Excellent! Very good! The Karluks have been entrenched in Shule and Khotan for a long time; this scourge must be eliminated!"

"After I return to Kucha, I will immediately prepare my troops and weapons in preparation for next year's war!"

With the prospect of the complete restoration of the Four Garrisons of Anxi, one can only imagine the excitement in the heart of this veteran who has guarded the Western Regions for decades.

During their conversation, Guo Xin remembered something and said to Lin Hao:
"There is another matter. During the campaign of the Grand Commander and Protector Yang, many tribal envoys from all directions came to pledge their allegiance, and they are still waiting at the inn."

"Although the army has just returned and is exhausted, this matter must be dealt with as soon as possible to prevent any unforeseen complications."

It turned out that after news of the Tang and Uyghur allied forces' continuous victories spread, the nearby tribes and small countries immediately realized that the Western Regions were about to change, and they began to habitually want to rely on the Tang Dynasty again.

"Haha, all nations are coming to submit! This is the scene that my Great Tang should be in!" Yang Xigu stroked his beard and laughed heartily.

Lin Hao nodded upon hearing this and said, "I am already aware of this matter. I will go to meet him later."

If these small tribes and miscellaneous nomadic peoples had come to join us earlier, they would certainly not have been treated unfairly.

However, the Tang Dynasty is currently at its peak, and in Lin Hao's eyes, it's nothing. It wouldn't matter if they were to suffer a setback.

Now that he's here, there's no need to pay too much attention to these miscellaneous barbarians; even the Han Navy isn't a place just anyone can participate in.

At this moment, Yang Xigu thought of something and immediately turned to Lin Hao and said:

"Grand Commander, Tingzhou is currently in dire need of reconstruction. The military farms need to be expanded, the military equipment needs to be reorganized, and the reconstruction of the Hanhai Army is of utmost urgency."

"I intend to request the Grand Commander to move the Western Regions Grand Commander's Office to Tingzhou to oversee the matters of land reclamation and the reconstruction of the Hanhai Army. What do you think?"

Yang Xigu hoped that Lin Hao would report back afterward so that he could help rebuild the Hanhai Army, an important force in Beiting, as soon as possible.

According to the Tang system, rebuilding an important border army like the Han Hai Army required the court to formally appoint a chief officer (such as the General of the Central Army or the Military Commissioner of the Han Hai Army).

Although the northern trade route between the Western Regions and Chang'an has been opened, the journey through the Uyghur camp is long and communication is difficult. If everything is reported, it will surely delay the opportunity to fight.

However, now that Beiting and Anxi are under Lin Hao's jurisdiction, as long as Lin Hao agrees, the Hanhai Army can be rebuilt first, and then the reasons can be explained in detail after the memorial is repaired!

Lin Hao did not refuse upon hearing this. After pondering for a moment, he said in a deep voice:

"Alright, let's rebuild the Han Hai Army as soon as possible and help you protect Beiting!"

Lin Hao agreed to stay in Beiting to help Yang Xigu, but did not agree to move the Western Regions Grand Governor's Office to Tingzhou.

Although Luntai City originally belonged to Beiting, Lin Hao believes that Luntai City currently has enough space for development.

After conquering the Ili River Valley, Lin Hao also plans to move the Western Regions Grand Governor's Office to the Ili River Valley area.

Tingzhou, Xizhou, and Kucha are all located in the oasis corridor south of the Tianshan Mountains, which are essentially defensive lines. The Tang army was in a state of defense and fighting for transportation lines.

The Ili River Valley is different. It is surrounded by mountains on the east, west and south sides, and protected by mountains such as Mount Borokonu to the north. Its entrance (Ruzigou) is easy to defend and difficult to attack.

By simply guarding a few mountain passes, the core area can be effectively protected, which is much easier than setting up defenses on all sides in the open Tingzhou region.

The Ili River Valley is vast and rich in water and grass, enough to support a large army and population. It has a natural topographical advantage, like a huge natural military camp, wedged into the heart of Central Asia.

Moving the Western Regions Grand Protectorate here signifies that the Tang Dynasty's strategic focus shifted from "defending the front line" to "controlling the area," directly deterring and controlling the former territory of the Western Turks (such as the Karluks).

It threatens the flank of Tibet and could even sever Tibet's connection with other forces in the northwest, letting them experience what it means to have something stuck in their throat.

Moreover, this area is a natural breeding ground for horses. The Ili River Valley has been the hometown of heavenly horses since ancient times (the Wusun horses of the Han Dynasty and the later Akhal-Teke horses were both produced in this area).

Here, an unprecedentedly large military horse farm could be established, ensuring that the Tang army's warhorses, in terms of both quality and quantity, would overwhelm the enemy's cavalry.

Another advantage is that the Ili River Valley can be developed into a new hub connecting the Central Asian steppes and the oases of southern Xinjiang.

Controlling this area means controlling the initiative in trade with Central Asian countries, and wealth will flow in continuously.

After hearing Lin Hao's future strategy, both Yang Xigu and Guo Xin wholeheartedly supported Lin Hao's decision. Guo Xin, in particular, supported it wholeheartedly. In addition to the reasons mentioned above, once Lin Hao occupied the Ili River Valley, he could directly threaten the Karluks who occupied Shule and Khotan, providing strong support for Anxi's recovery of lost territory.

Once Lin Hao moves the administrative center to the Ili River Valley, he can return Luntai and the surrounding garrison cities to Yang Xigu.

Otherwise, Yang Xigu would only have two cities, Tingzhou and Xizhou, making the Beiting Protectorate seem unworthy of its name.

“Building an army is not something that can be accomplished in a day. Now is the perfect opportunity to train the newly attached tribes and lay the foundation for the prestige of the Hanhai Army.”

"Oh? Where is the destination?" Yang Xigu asked.

Lin Hao walked to the map of the Western Regions hanging in the hall and pointed to one spot: "Yanqi!"

Lin Hao then explained, "Yanqi was originally one of the Four Garrisons of Anxi, but now it has fallen into the hands of the Tibetans."

"Its location borders Xizhou to the north and Kucha to the west, placing it at a crucial juncture between our Beiting and Anxi."

"The Tibetans occupy it, like a bone stuck in our throat. They could cut off the road between Xizhou and Kucha at any time, making it difficult for our two protectorates to defend both ends!"

Guo Xin stayed in Kucha mainly to guard against the Tibetan troops stationed in Yanqi.

Lin Hao traced a circle around Yanqi with his finger before continuing his analysis:
"Looking at its terrain, to the north lies my Xizhou, to the west lies Kucha, the territory of Prince Guo, and to the east and south are the vast sea of ​​sand (Taklamakan Desert)."

"Yanqi is now an isolated city. If Tibet wants to rescue it, it will have to cross thousands of miles of desert. The journey is arduous and supplies are difficult to obtain. If it sends a large army, it would be fortunate if even 30% of its forces could be deployed."

"If they dare to come to our aid, our army can wait in comfort and then besiege Yanqi City to attack their reinforcements. We will surely inflict heavy losses on them!"

Yang Xigu stroked his beard and pondered, "That is true, but Yanqi is a fortified city and will not be easy to capture."

Lin Hao said confidently, "The defending troops are isolated and without support, and their morale is not high. Meanwhile, our army is riding high on the momentum of our recent victory and can command the newly annexed units."

"And tell them directly that this battle is a 'pledge of allegiance,' and that anyone who fights bravely and makes meritorious contributions will be given priority to be selected for the Han Navy, or will receive more rewards and trade privileges."

“They are just looking for a way to serve the country. Now that they have this opportunity, why don’t they fight to the death? At that time, Prince Guo only needs to station his troops outside Yanqi City, and the main force to attack the city can be taken care of by these newly annexed tribes who are eager for battle.”

Guo Xin nodded upon hearing this: "Yanqi is our old territory in Anxi. It is our duty to recover lost territory. I can send an army to assist, or as Governor Lin said, we can deter them from the west."

Lin Hao continued to list the advantages of Yanqi: "After we take Yanqi City, we can utilize the fish and salt resources of Bosten Lake to secure a stable salt supply and no longer be at the mercy of others."

"The land here is fertile and suitable for farming, which can make it another granary. In addition, it produces fine horses, which can supplement the needs of the Hanhai Army cavalry."

"Most importantly, after recapturing Yanqi City, Beiting and Anxi will be connected. In addition, with the future relocation of the Western Regions Grand Protectorate to the Ili River Valley, the strategic situation of the Tang Dynasty in the Western Regions will be completely changed!"

After hearing this, Yang Xigu clapped his hands and laughed loudly:
"Excellent! The Grand Commander's plan is thorough and brilliant! It can train troops, remove obstacles, and bring tangible benefits! So, let's follow the Grand Commander's strategy! Make preparations as soon as possible and march on Yanqi!"

Guo Xin also excitedly said, "I will immediately return to Kucha and dispatch troops to respond. Yanqi City should also return to the hands of the Tang Dynasty."

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Several days later, smoke and dust filled the area outside Yanqi City, where two large armies met.

Under the banner bearing the character "Guo," Guo Xin, the Prince of Wuwei and Grand Protector of Anxi, was seated on his horse, fully armored.

On the other side was the allied forces of Lin Hao and Yang Xigu, who respectively raised a banner with the character "Lin" representing the Grand Governor of the Western Regions and a banner with the character "Yang" representing Yang Xigu, the Grand Protector of the Western Regions.

"Your Highness! I didn't expect you to arrive so swiftly!" Yang Xigu said with a cupped hand and a smile, but his gaze was involuntarily drawn to the vast procession behind Guo Xin.

Not only were there numerous well-ordered, gleaming armored veterans of Kucha, now rejuvenated and in their prime, but also a large number of well-trained soldiers.

Furthermore, there were numerous auxiliary troops from various tribes, dressed in different colors, with swords and spears everywhere, their men and horses making a great commotion, displaying an impressive and powerful military presence.

Guo Xin dismounted, dusted himself off, and said to Yang Xigu and Lin Hao:
"How can I lag behind in recapturing the old town of Anxi? As soon as I return to Kucha, I will immediately muster my troops and come here!"

He paused, a complex smile playing on his lips, and pointed to the entourage behind him, saying:

"As for these guys, I have invited them many times in the past, but they have always declined with various excuses."

"Ha, now it's all good. I heard that my Great Tang has won one victory after another in Tingzhou and Shazhou, with well-trained troops and ample supplies. They've come to serve me without me even having to ask."

His gaze fell on Lin Hao, and he said with some emotion:

"This is all thanks to your successful land reclamation in Luntai City, and your meritorious service in the eastern expedition with Governor Yang, which has brought glory to our Great Tang!"

"Otherwise, why would these opportunists, who are used to observing the winds and changing their tune, be so eager to participate?"

His words carried a hint of triumphant satisfaction, but also a lingering sense of resentment.

After all, only they themselves know the hardships they endured while holding out in this isolated city for decades.

Yang Xigu deeply agreed with this, and sighed:

"This has always been the custom in the Western Regions. Seeking advantage and avoiding harm is their instinct, so Your Highness need not take it too seriously."

"When my family was trapped in Xizhou, wasn't our household also deserted?" He recalled the predicament when he had only two thousand soldiers left at the most difficult time, and his heart was filled with emotion.

"Hmph!" Guo Xin snorted lightly, her tone turning cold.
"Few offer help in times of need, but many add flowers to brocade. However, since they have come, let's take this opportunity of the Battle of Yanqi to test their mettle!"

"If you want the protection of my Great Tang, how can you expect to gain it without first showing some sincerity and shedding some blood and sweat?" Guo Xin somewhat admired Lin Hao's approach; if you wanted to rely on the Great Tang, you had to first offer a "pledge of allegiance."

"What the Prince says is exactly what I thought!" Yang Xigu clapped his hands in agreement.
"In this attack on Yanqi, I discussed with Governor Lin the idea of ​​using these newly annexed tribes as the vanguard. This would serve two purposes: first, to test their loyalty and courage; and second, to select brave and valiant men from among them to replenish the Han Navy."

"Unexpectedly, the Prince also has the same idea!" Yang Xigu said with a smile.

"Of course!" Guo Xin nodded, then said with some emotion:
"The Karluks occupy Shule and Khotan, and their strength should not be underestimated. In the great battle next year, the current forces of Anxi will be far from sufficient."

"I have already informed all the tribes in Kucha that all those who are willing to serve the Tang Dynasty to the death will be promoted and rewarded, and may even have the opportunity to become Tang citizens!"

"These are the first tribes to respond." Clearly, Guo Xin had also adopted Lin Hao's incentive strategy of respecting the Tang Dynasty people, and the effect was immediate.

With the enemy at their gates, the isolated city of Yanqi appeared exceptionally vulnerable. The Tang army swiftly completed its deployment:
Yang Xigu led the Beiting faction's auxiliary troops in the main attack on the north gate, while Guo Xin led the Anxi faction's auxiliary troops to press on the west gate.

"As for the east and south sides, in accordance with Lin Hao's previous strategy, only a small number of scouts were sent to monitor them, leaving the defending army with a desert retreat route that seemed like a way out but was actually a dead end."

The order to attack was given, and then the war drums sounded. These newly annexed tribes, eager to prove their worth to their new ruler and vie for a future position within the Tang Dynasty's system, launched an exceptionally fierce offensive.

Arrows rained down like locusts, cannons roared, ladders were erected atop the city walls, and the sounds of battle shook the heavens and the earth.

Among them, the troops under the leadership of Chang Shouzheng, the leader of the Shatuo tribe, were particularly brave. Chang Shouzheng took the lead, holding a curved sword, braving rolling logs and rocks, and roaring as he climbed the ladder.

He harbored a deep resentment. That Sogdian, Kang Huai'en, had only gotten lucky and was entrusted with the important task of trading by Lin Jinglue, enjoying unparalleled fame for a time.

He, Chang Shouzheng, and the Shatuo warriors, how could he fall behind? This battle was the perfect opportunity for his Shatuo tribe to demonstrate its value, surpass Kang Huaien, and occupy a more important position in Lin Hao's heart.

The Shatuo cavalry, even when dismounted and fighting on foot, were not to be underestimated. They fiercely charged into the defending ranks, and where their blades flashed, blood and flesh flew everywhere.

After suffering considerable casualties, Tsunemori's forces finally gained a foothold on the northern city wall of Yanqi and opened a breach.

As reinforcements surged forward, and seeing that both the north and west gates had fallen, the morale of the Tibetan soldiers defending the city completely collapsed.

The remaining Tibetan defenders and some soldiers from the coerced tribes abandoned the city in despair and fled in panic into the vast desert to the east and south.

However, their fate had already been sealed. Outside, Guo Xin had prepared five thousand heavy cavalrymen, waiting for them to feed them.

After a bloody battle, the Tibetan garrison in Yanqi City was completely wiped out. This important town of Anxi Protectorate, which had been occupied for many years, finally returned to the territory of the Tang Dynasty.