Daming: Brother, there is no future for monks, let's rebel

As the gem procurement went smoothly, Zhu Han and his party's stay in Ceylon was gradually coming to an end. On the eve of his departure, Zhu Han specially hosted a banquet for the gem merchants and several important local figures to express his gratitude to them.

At the banquet, Zhu Han raised his glass to salute the guests and said: "Thank you all for your warm hospitality and support during my stay in Ceylon. The smooth progress of this gemstone procurement is inseparable from your great help. May the friendship between our two countries last forever and write a more glorious chapter together."

The guests raised their glasses in response, and the atmosphere of the banquet was warm and harmonious. The gem merchant stood up, bowed deeply to Zhu Han, and said gratefully: "Ming Dynasty envoy, your arrival not only brought precious friendship to Ceylon, but also let us see the style and magnanimity of Ming Dynasty. On behalf of Ceylon, I would like to express my deepest respect and gratitude to you and your team."

Zhu Han smiled and helped the gem merchant up, and responded sincerely: "Your Excellency is too kind. The Ming Dynasty and the Kingdom of Ceylon have had profound cultural exchanges and trade relations since ancient times. This visit has deepened the understanding and trust between our two countries. I hope that our friendship will be as bright as these gems, lasting and shining."

During the banquet, an elderly noble from the Kingdom of Ceylon also stood up and spoke. His voice was full of vision for the future: "Ming Dynasty envoy, Ceylon is not only famous for its gems, but also has rich natural resources and profound cultural heritage. We look forward to cooperating with Ming Dynasty in more areas and jointly promoting the prosperity and development of the two countries."

Zhu Han nodded in agreement, his eyes gleaming with anticipation: "Your Excellency is right. The Ming Dynasty is willing to work hand in hand with the Kingdom of Ceylon to carry out in-depth cooperation in trade, culture, education and other fields. I believe that through our joint efforts, we will be able to bring more benefits to the people of both countries."

As the banquet progressed, Zhu Han had more in-depth exchanges with the guests from the Kingdom of Ceylon.

As the banquet drew to a close, Zhu Han raised his glass to thank all the guests: "Thank you all for your hospitality tonight. I have deeply felt the enthusiasm and friendliness of the Kingdom of Ceylon. I hope our friendship will be like this glass of fine wine, becoming more mellow and fragrant as it ages."

The guests raised their glasses again, wishing the two countries everlasting friendship and closer cooperation. After the banquet, Zhu Han and his party, accompanied by gem merchants and local nobles, strolled under the moonlight of the Ceylon Mountain Kingdom, enjoying this rare tranquility and beauty.

The next morning, when the first ray of sunlight penetrated the mist and shone on the land of Ceylon, Zhu Han and his party were ready to go. They were about to embark on their journey home, but their hearts were filled with reluctance and gratitude for this beautiful land.

Before leaving, Zhu Han said goodbye to the gem merchants and local nobles. His tone was full of sincerity and reluctance: "Thank you all for your support and help during our stay in Ceylon. May our friendship be like this morning sun, full of vitality and hope."

The gem merchant held Zhu Han's hand tightly and said affectionately: "Ming Dynasty envoy, I wish you a safe journey and a safe return to Ming Dynasty. We look forward to you and your team visiting Ceylon again and writing a new chapter of friendship between our two countries."

Zhu Han nodded in agreement, silently making a promise in his heart. He turned to look at Mr. Wang and General Li, his eyes flashing with determination and expectation: "Let's set off, carrying the friendship and blessings of the Ceylon Mountain Country, and continue our journey."

Following Zhu Han's order, the Ming fleet slowly sailed away from the coastline of Ceylon in the morning light and headed towards unknown waters.

During the voyage, Zhu Han and Mr. Wang stood side by side at the bow, looking out at the boundless sea in the distance, with deep emotion in their hearts: "Mr. Wang, on this trip we not only experienced the beautiful scenery and profound culture of Ceylon, but also established a deep friendship with the local people. This will be a good story in the history of our Ming Dynasty's overseas exchanges."

Mr. Wang nodded in agreement, his eyes sparkling with wisdom: "Your Highness is right. This visit not only enhances our friendship with the Kingdom of Ceylon, but also opens a new window for exchanges between Ming Dynasty and overseas countries. I believe that in the days to come, we will establish close cooperative relations with more countries and jointly promote world peace and development."

Zhu Han smiled slightly, his eyes full of longing for the future: "Yes, this is just the beginning."

Zhu Han's gaze pierced through the mist and looked towards the unknown sea in the distance, his heart full of longing and expectation for the future.

He turned to Mr. Wang and said, "Mr. Wang, although we have achieved a lot on this trip, there are still countless unknowns waiting for us to explore. We must always remain humble and respectful to meet future challenges."

Mr. Wang nodded slightly and responded, "Your Majesty is right. The unknown is both a challenge and an opportunity. We will embrace every new discovery and cooperation opportunity with a more open mind."

At this time, General Li stepped forward with a serious look on his face: "Your Highness, the sea ahead is complex and changeable, and according to the latest intelligence, there may be pirate activities nearby. We need to increase vigilance to ensure safe navigation."

Zhu Han nodded in agreement, his eyes revealing determination: "General Li is right. Safety is always the top priority of navigation. You need to immediately send orders to all ships to strengthen patrols and vigilance to ensure that any potential threats can be discovered and dealt with in a timely manner."

General Li took the order and left, while Zhu Han continued to discuss the next voyage plan with Mr. Wang.

"Mr. Wang, do you have any suggestions on the next route selection?" Zhu Han asked, his eyes falling on the nautical chart again.

Mr. Wang pondered for a moment and said slowly: "Your Majesty, in my humble opinion, we can try a less explored route. Although the risk is greater, we may also discover new trading partners or resource points. Of course, safety measures must be in place."

Zhu Han nodded, a hint of interest flashing in his eyes: "This plan is feasible, but we must act with caution. We can send spies to conduct reconnaissance first, and make a decision after ensuring the safety of the route."

At this moment, a young navigator came running over with a nervous look on his face: "Your Majesty, we have detected abnormal weather ahead. A huge whirlpool has suddenly appeared on the sea surface, which may have a serious impact on our voyage!"

Zhu Han frowned upon hearing this, and quickly took the report handed over by the navigator and read it carefully. After a moment, he gave an order in a deep voice: "All crew members immediately enter emergency status and prepare to deal with the impending natural disaster. General Li, you are responsible for commanding the ship to adjust its course and avoid the whirlpool area."

As the order was issued, the fleet moved quickly. The crew members performed their duties, some strengthened the cables, some checked the equipment, and the whole fleet was filled with a tense and orderly atmosphere.

Zhu Han stood on the deck, holding a telescope and staring closely at the changes in the sea ahead.

Soon, the fleet successfully bypassed the whirlpool area, and the sea gradually returned to calm. Zhu Han put down the telescope and couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief, but then he tensed up again.

"Your Highness, we have successfully avoided the whirlpool." General Li came over to report, his tone was a little tired but more proud. Zhu Han nodded in approval: "General Li, the performance of you and the entire crew is admirable. But remember, don't take it lightly. Next, we need to plan the route more carefully to ensure the safety of the voyage."

Mr. Wang also stepped forward and suggested, "Your Majesty, perhaps we can consider sending a small reconnaissance ship to explore the unknown waters first, so as to open up a safe passage for the large fleet of ships."

Zhu Han heard this and a hint of approval flashed in his eyes: "This is a great plan. Arrange the reconnaissance mission immediately and ensure the safety and efficiency of the reconnaissance ship."

With the deployment of the reconnaissance mission completed, the fleet continued to sail forward. Although there are still many unknowns and challenges ahead, Zhu Han is full of confidence and determination.

During the following voyage, the fleet not only encountered the test of bad weather, but also discovered several small islands that were not marked on the existing nautical charts. Zhu Han personally led the reconnaissance team to land and explore, had friendly exchanges with the residents on the island, and collected valuable geographical and meteorological information.

"Your Highness, these newly discovered islands are rich in resources, and the islanders are full of curiosity and friendliness towards the Ming Dynasty." The captain of the reconnaissance team excitedly reported to Zhu Han after returning.

Zhu Han nodded and smiled. "This is a godsend opportunity. We can explore the possibility of cooperation and development without damaging the local ecology and culture."

Mr Wang added: “These new discoveries not only enrich our logbook, but also provide important reference for Daming’s future overseas expansion.”

As the Ming fleet sailed deeper, a prosperous and vibrant harbor gradually came into view. That was the legendary Adan Kingdom. Zhu Han stood at the bow, looking at the busy port in the distance, and a feeling of anticipation surged in his heart.

"Mr. Wang, that is the country of Adam." Zhu Han turned and said to Mr. Wang beside him, with excitement flashing in his eyes.

Mr. Wang nodded in agreement: "Yes, Your Majesty. The Kingdom of Adam is famous for its rich gems and pearls. It is a rare opportunity for us to visit it in person this time."

Zhu Han smiled slightly, his eyes passing through the port, as if he had already seen those dazzling gems and pearls: "This time, we come here not only to see the gem trade of Adam, but also to gain a deeper understanding of the culture and market behind it."

At this moment, a navigator hurried over to report: "Your Majesty, the envoys from Adam are waiting at the port, ready to welcome us."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Han straightened his clothes and said to Mr. Wang, "Okay, let's get off the boat and meet our friends from Adan Country."

Following Zhu Han's footsteps, they soon arrived at the port and were warmly welcomed by the envoys of the Adan Kingdom. A middle-aged man in a gorgeous robe and extraordinary demeanor came forward and saluted Zhu Han: "Welcome the envoys of the Ming Dynasty to the Adan Kingdom. I am the Minister of Trade here. On behalf of His Majesty the King, I welcome your arrival."

Zhu Han smiled and returned the greeting, saying in a kind tone: "Thank you for your hospitality. Ming and Adan have always had trade relations. This time I personally led a team here to deepen the friendship and cooperation between the two countries."

Upon hearing this, the Minister of Trade's eyes flashed with joy: "The arrival of the Ming envoy will undoubtedly inject new vitality into the trade cooperation between our two countries. Please follow me. His Majesty the King has prepared a grand welcome banquet for you."

Led by the Minister of Trade, Zhu Han and his party came to the palace of Adan. At the banquet, the king of Adan personally received them and hosted a banquet. The banquet was filled with various delicacies, as well as dazzling gems and pearls.

"Ming Dynasty envoy, please allow me to introduce you to the treasures of our Adan country." The Minister of Trade picked up a dazzling sapphire and showed it to Zhu Han, "This sapphire is the pride of our Adan country. Its pure color and bright luster are rare in the world."

Zhu Han took the sapphire, examined it carefully, and couldn't help but exclaimed: "It really lives up to its reputation. Such a gem is truly a treasure in the world."

The king laughed and said, "It's good that the Ming envoy likes it. Our country of Adan is famous for its gems and pearls. These treasures are not only the symbol of our country, but also the bridge for our trade with other countries in the world."

Zhu Han nodded in agreement: "Your Majesty is right. Gems and pearls are luxury goods and have always been loved by nobles from all over the world. It is not easy for Adam to become a distribution center for gems and pearls."

The Minister of Trade took over the topic and continued, "What the Ming envoy said is very true. Our country of Adan is located at a strategic point and is an important node for trade between the East and the West. Merchants from all over the world gather here to trade gems and pearls. This not only promotes the economic development of our country, but also deepens cultural exchanges and friendships between countries."

After hearing this, Zhu Han had a deeper understanding of Adam's trade status. "It seems that Adam's achievements in gem and pearl trade have attracted worldwide attention. This time, I also hope to strengthen cooperation with your country and jointly promote the prosperity and development of this field."

The king was overjoyed when he heard this, and immediately raised his glass to greet Zhu Han: "The proposal of the Ming envoy is exactly what I want. Let us toast to the friendship and cooperation between our two countries!"

At the banquet, Zhu Han had an in-depth discussion with the King of Adan, the Minister of Trade and others on the trade cooperation of gemstones and pearls. The two sides had extensive exchanges on trade rules, market trends, quality control and other aspects, and reached a number of cooperation intentions.

After the banquet, Zhu Han, accompanied by the Minister of Trade, visited the gem market of Adam. The market was bustling with people, and there were all kinds of gems and pearls, which were dazzling. Zhu Han carefully observed these treasures while walking, and had a more intuitive understanding of the gem trade of Adam.

"Minister of Trade," Zhu Han stopped and pointed at a colorful gem and asked, "What is the quality of this gem?"

The Minister of Trade examined it carefully and nodded, saying, "This gem is of high quality, with bright color and excellent luster. In our market, such gems often sell for high prices."

Zhu Han smiled and nodded: "Such quality is indeed rare. I wonder if your country is interested in developing deeper gemstone trade cooperation with Ming?" (End of this chapter)