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

Upon hearing this, the Minister of Trade's eyes flashed with joy: "Of course! Daming is a great country in the East with huge market potential. We are very much looking forward to establishing a long-term gemstone trade cooperation relationship with Daming."

Zhu Han was delighted to hear this and immediately had an in-depth discussion with the Minister of Trade on the details of the cooperation. The two sides reached a number of consensuses on trade terms, price mechanisms, logistics and distribution, etc.

As the discussion deepened, the atmosphere between Zhu Han and the Minister of Trade of Adan became more and more harmonious. The Minister of Trade obviously had high hopes for this cooperation with Ming Dynasty, and his words were full of longing for the future.

"Ming Dynasty envoy," the Minister of Trade said in a gentle and sincere tone, "We in Adan have always been committed to maintaining fairness and transparency in the gem market, ensuring that every merchant can find the gems they like here. Cooperation with an oriental country like Ming Dynasty will undoubtedly bring us new opportunities and development momentum."

Zhu Han nodded in agreement. "What the Minister of Trade said is absolutely right. The Ming Dynasty also upholds an attitude of openness and cooperation and is willing to share prosperity with all countries. During this visit to the Kingdom of Adan, we not only hope to deepen cooperation in gemstone trade, but also hope to conduct exchanges in multiple fields such as culture and technology, and jointly promote world peace and development."

Upon hearing this, the Minister of Trade's eyes flashed with praise: "The foresight of the Ming envoy is admirable. Indeed, cultural exchanges and scientific and technological cooperation are important ways to enhance understanding and friendship between countries. We in Adan also look forward to working hand in hand with Ming in these areas."

Then, the Minister of Trade changed the subject and talked about the specific details of the cooperation: "Regarding the gemstone trade, we propose to set up a special trade platform for merchants from Ming Dynasty and Adan to directly connect with each other, reduce the middlemen and improve transaction efficiency. At the same time, we can also jointly hold gemstone exhibitions to attract more international buyers and jointly develop the market."

After hearing this, Zhu Han's eyes flashed with excitement: "This proposal is very forward-looking. Setting up a special trade platform can not only promote direct exchanges between merchants from both sides, but also enhance market transparency and competitiveness. Holding a gem exhibition is an excellent opportunity to showcase the gem culture of the two countries and attract global attention. I fully agree with this proposal and am willing to work with your country to promote the implementation of these projects."

Seeing this, the Minister of Trade smiled with satisfaction: "We are very pleased with the understanding and support of the Ming envoy. Next, we will arrange a special team to connect with the Ming side, jointly formulate a detailed cooperation plan, and promote the implementation of various tasks."

As the discussion deepened, the two sides also conducted in-depth discussions on issues such as intellectual property protection and trade dispute resolution mechanisms, and reached a series of consensuses. Zhu Han deeply felt the determination and wisdom of the Adan Kingdom in promoting the development of gemstone trade.

After the banquet, Zhu Han, accompanied by the Minister of Trade, visited the gem processing factory of Adan. The craftsmen here were skilled in carving raw gems into amazing works of art. Zhu Han could not help but express his sincere admiration for Adan's achievements in the field of gem processing.

"Minister of Trade," Zhu Han said as they walked, "Adan's gem processing skills are truly amazing. Through our cooperation, not only can more people in the Ming Dynasty appreciate the beauty of Adan's gems, but Adan's gem culture can also be more widely spread in the Ming Dynasty."

The Minister of Trade responded with a smile: "We are honored by the praise from the Ming envoy. We are very much looking forward to developing deeper cooperation with the Ming in the field of gem processing and jointly promoting the inheritance and development of gem culture."

By the end of the visit, Zhu Han had a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the gem trade and culture of the Kingdom of Adan.

On the way back to the fleet, Zhu Han and Mr. Wang walked and talked, sharing their gains and insights from the trip. Mr. Wang expressed his sincere admiration for Zhu Han's foresight and decisive decision-making: "Your Highness's trip not only demonstrated the elegance and magnanimity of the Ming Dynasty, but also opened a new chapter in the friendly cooperation between the two countries. I am deeply honored to witness this historical moment with Your Highness."

Zhu Han smiled and shook his head: "Mr. Wang, you are too kind. The success of this trip and the fruitful results achieved are inseparable from the joint efforts and wisdom of everyone present. In the future, we still need to remain humble and respectful, continue to explore the unknown, seek cooperation, and create prosperity together."

As night fell, the Ming fleet slowly set sail from the port of Adan. The deck was brightly lit, and the crew was busy and orderly preparing for the next voyage.

Zhu Han stood at the bow, looking at the port of Adan that was gradually going away, with a vision of the future in his heart. He turned to Mr. Wang beside him and said, "Mr. Wang, this trip to Adan not only deepened our trade cooperation, but also witnessed the unique charm of gem culture. Next, we need to continue exploring and find more opportunities to promote exchanges between Ming Dynasty and the world."

Mr. Wang nodded in agreement, his eyes sparkling with wisdom. "Your Highness is right. This trip has yielded a lot of results. Not only has it brought precious gem resources to the Ming Dynasty, but it has also opened the door for us to have in-depth exchanges with the Adan Kingdom and even the entire Western Regions. In the next voyage, we will surely discover more unknown beauty."

As the Ming fleet continued to sail westward, one morning, when the first ray of sunlight penetrated the mist and shone on the sea, Zhu Han stood on the deck, holding a telescope and carefully observing the distant skyline. Suddenly, his eyes were attracted by a vague outline of land.

"Mr. Wang, look over there." Zhu Han pointed to the distance, his eyes gleaming with curiosity, "The outline of that land seems to be an unknown country."

Mr. Wang took the telescope, looked at it carefully, and then nodded and said, "Your Majesty is right. It really looks like an unmarked country. Perhaps we are about to step into a brand new country."

Upon hearing this, General Li also came over, his voice filled with excitement: "If this is true, then our voyage will have another extraordinary experience. I am willing to lead the team to land first and find out the situation."

Zhu Han nodded, his eyes flashing with a desire for the unknown: "Okay, General Li, you immediately select elite soldiers and prepare for landing. At the same time, strengthen vigilance to prevent any accidents."

General Li took the order and quickly organized a team to land and explore. Soon, they successfully landed on the land and brought back exciting news.

"Your Majesty, we have found out that this land is called Mugudusu, a rich and peaceful country." General Li reported excitedly, "The local residents have warmly welcomed our Ming Dynasty visitors and invited us to their capital." Zhu Han was delighted when he heard this: "I have never heard of Mugudusu, but it is so hospitable. It is really rare. Mr. Wang, please prepare the gifts immediately, and we will set off to the capital immediately to show our friendship."

Upon hearing this, Mr. Wang quickly responded, "Your Majesty is right. I will immediately arrange for the preparation of gifts and ensure the safe arrival of the fleet in the capital." He turned around and gave a few instructions to his trusted staff, then turned to Zhu Han and continued, "The country of Mugudushu is mainly mountainous and open areas. Its unique terrain and landscape will surely make this trip more memorable. Your Majesty, perhaps we can take this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the country's customs and lay a solid foundation for future exchanges."

Zhu Han nodded in agreement, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Mr. Wang is absolutely right. This trip is not only for friendly exchanges, but also for exploring the unknown and gaining knowledge. General Li, you need to ensure the safety of the landing team, and pay attention to the terrain features along the way to provide reference for our subsequent actions."

General Li bowed and saluted, saying firmly, "I will obey your orders and live up to your trust. I will personally lead the team to record the topography and features of Mugudushu in detail, and prepare for the fleet's subsequent possible exploration activities."

With the gifts ready, Zhu Han and his party, led by the residents of Mugudushu, headed towards the capital. Along the way, they crossed the winding mountain roads, with lush forests and steep cliffs on both sides, showing the unique natural scenery of Mugudushu.

"Your Majesty, look at the stone houses over there." Mr. Wang pointed to the well-arranged stone houses in the distance and introduced them to Zhu Han. "Most of the city buildings in Mugudushu are stone houses, which not only reflects their wisdom in fighting against the harsh natural environment, but also highlights their unique architectural style."

Zhu Han carefully observed the stone houses, and saw that they were built against the mountain, with tight gaps between the stones, which made them look solid and durable. "These stone houses are indeed unique, both practical and beautiful. The creativity and perseverance shown by the people of Mugudu in the difficult environment are admirable."

General Li added: "Your Majesty, these stone houses are not only windproof and rainproof, but also effectively protect against attacks by wild animals. The people of Mugudushu have accumulated rich survival wisdom in the long-term process of living in harmony with nature."

As the team gradually approached the capital, the scene in front of them became more and more spectacular. The capital was built on the mountain, and the city walls were made of huge stones, towering and majestic. The city gates were carved with exquisite patterns, demonstrating the cultural heritage and artistic attainments of the Mugu Dushu Kingdom.

"Welcome the Ming envoys to the capital of Mugudusu!" An old man dressed in gorgeous clothes and with a kind face walked out of the city gate and extended a warm welcome to Zhu Han and his party. "I am the elder of my country. On behalf of His Majesty the King and all the people, I would like to express my most sincere welcome to your arrival."

Zhu Han smiled and returned the greeting, saying sincerely, "Thank you, elder, and the people of Mugudushu for your warm hospitality."

Zhu Han looked at the elders who greeted them with a gentle gaze, full of curiosity and respect for the unique customs of the Mugudushu Kingdom. "Elder, your country's clothing and hairstyles are really unique and impressive. I wonder if there are profound historical and cultural meanings behind these traditions?"

The elder smiled proudly upon hearing this. He said slowly, "The Ming envoy is really discerning. The clothing and hairstyle of our Mugudushu do carry the history and culture of our nation. The curly hairstyle of men that reaches down to their waists symbolizes perseverance and vitality, just like the spirit of our nation to survive and reproduce in a harsh environment. The hairstyle and accessories of women represent purity and nobility, which are our yearning and pursuit for a better life."

Zhu Han nodded in agreement, and turned his gaze to the Mugudu women beside him, who were dressed in brightly colored clothes. Their hair was gleaming with the glimmer of silver rings and cords, making them look particularly charming. "These ornaments are not only beautiful, but also contain profound cultural significance. May I ask, how were they made and passed down?"

The elder smiled and explained, "Most of these ornaments are made by the skillful women in our tribe, and the materials are mostly taken from nature, such as silver mines and gemstones. Each piece of ornament carries the hard work and blessings of the maker, and is the best gift for relatives or distinguished guests. As for inheritance, it is passed down from generation to generation through the family. Each generation will continue to innovate based on the predecessors, so that these traditional ornaments can maintain the ancient charm while retaining modern beauty."

Mr. Wang was listening attentively and could not help but exclaim: "What an admirable craftsmanship and culture. Although Daming and Mugu Dushu are thousands of miles apart, they share the same pursuit of beauty and cultural heritage."

The elder heard this and a hint of surprise flashed in his eyes: "What the Ming envoy said is absolutely right. Culture has no national boundaries and beauty is universal. We are very willing to strengthen cooperation with Ming in cultural exchanges and jointly promote the prosperity and development of the cultures of the two countries."

Zhu Han smiled and nodded, looking forward to this visit. "The elder is right. This trip not only brings the friendship and respect of the Ming Dynasty, but also hopes to establish closer ties with Mugu Dushu in many fields such as cultural exchange and trade. I believe that through the joint efforts of both sides, we will be able to create a more brilliant future."

As the conversation deepened, the atmosphere between the two sides became more harmonious. The residents of Mugudushu gathered around and looked at these guests from afar with curiosity, their eyes flashing with friendliness and curiosity. The children excitedly surrounded Zhu Han and his group, asking about everything about the Ming Dynasty in their childish voices.

Zhu Han bent down, gently stroked the children's heads, and communicated with them in simple language. "Daming is a beautiful and rich country with a long history and splendid culture. We welcome you to visit Daming in the future and experience the local customs and practices there."

When the children heard this, their eyes sparkled with excitement, as if they couldn't wait to set foot on that distant land. The surrounding residents also expressed their willingness to strengthen exchanges with Daming, jointly explore the unknown world, and create a better future.

Amidst the laughter and joy, Zhu Han and his party were led to the palace in the capital. The palace was decorated gorgeously yet solemnly, and every detail revealed the pursuit of beauty and respect for guests by the Mugu Dushu Kingdom.

The king personally hosted a banquet for the Ming envoys. The banquet not only had rich food and fine wine, but also wonderful dance and music performances, which made Zhu Han deeply feel the enthusiasm and hospitality of the Mugudushu Kingdom. (End of this chapter)