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

As the well platform was completed, residents of Mugudushu State flocked to the newly dug well and the well platform, their eyes sparkling with joy and gratitude. Children excitedly circled around the well platform, and adults brought fruits and food from their homes as a token of gratitude and hospitality to the Ming craftsmen.

"Your Majesty, look at how enthusiastic these residents are!" Mr. Wang said with emotion as he stood beside Zhu Han. "They expressed their gratitude in their own way, which made us feel more deeply the deep friendship between the people of our two countries."

Zhu Han nodded in agreement: "Indeed, this friendship is not only built on the well, but also gradually deepened through our joint efforts and mutual understanding. In the days to come, the cooperation and exchanges between Ming Dynasty and Mugu Dushu Kingdom will become closer and more frequent."

As night fell, the Daming craftsmen finished their day's work and prepared to return to the camp to rest. The residents of Mugudushu reluctantly bid them farewell.

On the way back to the camp, Zhu Han said to General Li: "General Li, today's excavation work went very smoothly, thanks to the exquisite skills of the craftsmen and the enthusiastic help of the residents. But we can't take it lightly. In the next few days, we must continue to monitor the quality of the well water and the stability of the well platform to ensure that nothing goes wrong."

General Li bowed and responded: "I will do my best to ensure the successful completion of the water well project."

After returning to the camp, Zhu Han summoned all the craftsmen and accompanying personnel who participated in digging the well, expressed his gratitude for their hard work today, and encouraged everyone to continue to maintain a good working state and bring more benefits to the residents of Mugudusu Kingdom.

The craftsmen all expressed that they would live up to the mission and continue to devote themselves to the subsequent work with full enthusiasm and superb skills.

Zhu Han looked at the residents of Mugudusu who were laughing and talking in the distance, and a deeper sense of responsibility and mission surged in his heart. He turned to Mr. Wang beside him and said, "Mr. Wang, although we have dug wells for the residents of Mugudusu and solved their drinking water problem, I always feel that we can do more for them."

Mr. Wang frowned when he heard this, and after thinking for a moment, he asked, "Does Your Majesty have any new ideas?"

Zhu Han nodded, his eyes sparkling with wisdom. "Yes, I thought we could help them build water storage tanks. In this way, even in the dry season or in emergencies, they will have sufficient water reserves to ensure that their lives are not affected."

Mr. Wang heard this and a hint of approval flashed in his eyes: "Your Majesty, this is a great idea! The reservoir can not only effectively store rainwater, but also provide a stable water source during the dry season. It is undoubtedly a great blessing for the residents of Mugudushu Country."

Zhu Han continued: "Moreover, we can guide them on how to maintain and manage the water storage tanks to ensure the safety and cleanliness of the water. This will have a profound impact on their production and life in the long run."

At this time, General Li also joined the discussion: "Your Highness is right. Building a water storage tank is indeed a good project that benefits the country and the people. I am willing to personally supervise this project to ensure that it can be completed smoothly."

Zhu Han smiled and nodded: "General Li is thoughtful. However, building a water reservoir requires careful planning and sufficient manpower and material resources. We need to discuss with the elders of the Mugudushu Kingdom first, listen to their opinions and needs, and then formulate a detailed implementation plan."

Mr Wang added: “Indeed, we still need to consider the location, size, material and maintenance measures of the water storage tank. These need to be decided in consultation with the residents of Mugudusu.”

Zhu Han nodded in agreement. "Okay, then we will start preparing immediately. Mr. Wang, you will be responsible for drafting a proposal for building a water reservoir, detailing our plans and expected results. General Li, you will be responsible for contacting the elders of the Mugu Dushu Kingdom and arranging a meeting to discuss this matter together."

General Li clasped his fists and replied, "As you command, General, I will arrange it immediately."

With General Li's arrangement, a meeting with the elders of the Mugudusu Kingdom was soon put on the agenda.

On the day of the meeting, representatives from both sides sat around a large round table made of local wood. The atmosphere was both formal and friendly.

Zhu Han spoke first. He smiled and said sincerely, "Dear elders, our Ming craftsmen have successfully dug wells for your country and solved the drinking water problem for some residents. But considering the drought or other emergencies that may be encountered in the future, we believe that building a water storage tank will be a long-term and necessary measure."

An elderly elder's eyes flashed with thought when he heard this, and he slowly said, "The Ming envoy is very thoughtful, and we are deeply grateful. But building a water storage tank is a big project after all, and we are worried that we may not have enough resources and manpower."

Mr. Wang took over the conversation, took out a proposal from his bosom and handed it to the elders present: "We understand your country's concerns, so we have made a detailed plan for the construction of the water storage tank. We have made specific arrangements for the site selection, scale, required materials, maintenance and management, etc. We are willing to provide technical support and necessary material assistance, and we also hope to get your assistance and cooperation."

The elders flipped through the proposal, discussing it in low voices from time to time, and gradually showed satisfied smiles on their faces. One of the elders looked up and said, "Da Ming's plan is indeed comprehensive, and we are very willing to cooperate. However, we hope to participate in the daily maintenance and management of the water storage tank to ensure its long-term use."

Zhu Han nodded in agreement. "Of course. The purpose of building the water tank is for the long-term benefit of your residents. We will send technicians to instruct your residents on how to perform daily maintenance to ensure the safety and cleanliness of the water tank."

The meeting continued, and the two sides had an in-depth discussion on the specific details of the water storage tank. From the rationality of the site selection to the procurement of materials, from the construction schedule to the subsequent maintenance plan, every detail was carefully considered.

"We suggest choosing a site near a river, which will make it easier to divert water and use natural water flows for initial purification," said Mr. Wang, pointing to a spot on the map.

“This is a good suggestion, but we need to ensure that the site selection will not affect the river ecology,” added an elder.

After some discussion, the two sides finally reached a consensus, and the construction of the reservoir began in full swing.

With the assistance of the residents of Mugudushu, the Ming craftsmen began to dig the reservoir. They first cleared the weeds and trees at the site, and then began to dig according to the plan. As the digging went deeper, a huge pit gradually formed.

"Everyone, please pay attention. Keep the pit walls stable during excavation to prevent landslides." Zhang Dashan stood at the edge of the pit and loudly directed the craftsmen.

The residents of Mugudushu State also joined in. Some of them moved soil and rocks, while others assisted in the excavation. Everyone was full of enthusiasm. As time went by, the main structure of the reservoir gradually took shape. The craftsmen began to waterproof the pit. They applied a layer of special waterproof material on the pit wall to ensure that the pool would not leak.

The elders of the Mugudusu Kingdom also stepped forward and said gratefully: "We are deeply moved by the hard work of the Ming envoys and craftsmen. This water tank will be the lifeline of our village in the future."

Zhu Han smiled and nodded: "This is what we should do. The Ming Dynasty and the Mugudushu Kingdom are brotherly countries, and it is natural for us to help each other."

After several days of intense construction, the reservoir was finally built successfully. When the first clear river water was introduced into the reservoir, the entire construction site was in an uproar. Residents cheered and rushed to the pool, watching this precious source of life being safely stored thanks to their efforts.

"From today on, we no longer have to worry about drinking water problems during the dry season!" said a resident excitedly.

Zhu Han stood aside, looking at this warm and touching scene, his heart filled with relief and pride.

With the completion of the reservoir, Zhu Han held a summary meeting with the elders of the Mugudushu Kingdom, mainly discussing how to ensure the long-term effective operation and maintenance of the reservoir.

"Elders, the construction of the water reservoir is only the first step. What is more important is how to manage and maintain it." Zhu Han said at the meeting, "We plan to send some technicians to stay here for a while to personally instruct the residents of your country on how to perform daily maintenance."

An elder nodded in agreement: "The Ming envoy is very thoughtful. We really need to learn how to manage this precious resource. Don't worry, we will also select some smart and capable young people to learn these technologies."

After the meeting, the Ming craftsmen began to hold a series of training courses for the residents of Mugudushu State, covering the daily inspection, cleaning, maintenance and emergency treatment of the water tank. The residents learned very seriously, as this water tank is of vital importance to their future lives.

At the same time, Zhu Han and Mr. Wang also used this time to further understand the social structure and economic conditions of Mugudushu and to find more possibilities for future cooperation. They found that although Mugudushu is located in a remote area, it has rich natural resources and unique cultural traditions and has great development potential.

"Mr. Wang, I think we can develop in-depth cooperation with Mugudushu in many fields such as agriculture, handicrafts and education," Zhu Han said to Mr. Wang in a private conversation. "Our technology and experience can help them improve production efficiency and quality of life, while their resources and culture can bring us new inspiration and market opportunities."

Mr. Wang nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Your Majesty. Such cooperation is not only beneficial to the economic development of both sides, but also deepens the friendship and understanding between us."

After a period of preparation and communication, the cooperation plan between Daming and Mugudushu gradually took shape. The two sides signed a series of cooperation agreements covering agricultural technology exchanges, handicraft trade, education assistance and other aspects.

As the cooperation deepened, the Ming Dynasty craftsmen not only gave strong support to the residents of Mugudushu in the maintenance and management of the water tanks, but also imparted advanced technology and experience in agricultural irrigation, handicraft production and other aspects.

The residents of Mugudushu State transformed these technologies into actual productivity through hard work and wisdom, thus improving their living standards.

As the cooperation progressed smoothly, the friendship between Zhu Han and Mugudu Shuguo became increasingly profound.

However, the mission of the voyage has not yet been completed and the Ming fleet still needs to move forward.

One day, Zhu Han summoned Mr. Wang, General Li and several trusted aides to discuss the next itinerary arrangements.

Zhu Han spoke slowly: "Everyone, our mission in Mugudushu Country is almost over. We have established a deep friendship with the residents here and promoted many cooperations. However, our journey is not over yet. There are more unknowns and challenges waiting for us ahead."

Mr. Wang nodded to show his understanding: "Your Majesty is right. Our mission is to explore the unknown and promote exchanges. Although I am reluctant to leave the Mugudusu Kingdom, I will continue to move forward to show my true colors as an envoy of the Ming Dynasty."

General Li bowed and said, "I will obey your orders and be ready to lead the fleet to continue sailing. Please rest assured, Your Majesty, I will do my best to ensure the safety of the voyage."

Zhu Han nodded slightly, his eyes revealing a hint of reluctance and determination: "Friends of Mugudushu, although we are leaving, our friendship will last forever. In the future, Daming and Mugudushu will surely work together to create brilliance."

Afterwards, Zhu Han decided to personally bid farewell to the king and elders of Mugudusu to express his deepest respect and gratitude. In the palace hall, Zhu Han saluted the king and elders again, saying earnestly: "Your Majesty, elders, during the Ming Dynasty delegation's stay in your country, we have received your warm hospitality and selfless help. Zhu Han and all the crew members are grateful. May the friendship between the two countries last forever and seek common development."

The king responded with a smile, his eyes full of sincerity: "Your Excellency, your words are too kind. The Kingdom of Mugudushu will always remember your friendship and generosity. I wish the envoy of the Ming Dynasty a safe journey and a safe return."

After the farewell ceremony, Zhu Han and his party set off on their journey home amid the reluctance of the residents of Mugudusu. The fleet slowly sailed away from the port, and the sparkling waves on the sea seemed to bear witness to this deep friendship.

During the voyage, Zhu Han stood on the deck, looking at the gradually receding coastline, his heart filled with emotion. He turned to Mr. Wang and said, "Mr. Wang, this trip not only deepened our friendship with the Kingdom of Mugudusu, but also witnessed the harmonious coexistence of different cultures. This is a great victory for Ming diplomacy."

Mr. Wang nodded in agreement: "Your Majesty is right. This trip not only demonstrates the majesty and wisdom of our Ming Dynasty, but also conveys a message of peace and friendship. This is of great significance to our future overseas exchanges."

General Li added: "Your Majesty, we still need to remain vigilant during the next voyage to ensure safe navigation. At the same time, we must continue to look for new opportunities for communication and cooperation." (End of this chapter)