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

"Chief Badong, life in your tribe is truly full of the beauty of nature and harmony. May I ask how the residents here make a living?" Zhu Han asked, his tone full of curiosity and respect for the unknown world.

Upon hearing this, Chief Badong smiled proudly. "Our tribe makes a living by fishing, hunting and farming. This land has endowed us with abundant products, allowing us to be self-sufficient. However, conflicts often arise between tribes due to competition for resources, which is also a major challenge we face." His words revealed a hint of helplessness and worry.

Zhu Han nodded to show his understanding. "Chief Badong, the Ming Dynasty, like your tribe, is also facing various challenges and difficulties. But it is these challenges that drive us to keep moving forward and seek a path to peace and development. This time, we, the Ming Dynasty envoys, come here in the hope of establishing a friendly cooperative relationship with your tribe and jointly meeting future challenges."

Upon hearing this, the Badong chieftain's eyes flashed with anticipation. "What the Ming envoy said is absolutely right. Our tribe has always been eager to communicate with the outside world and learn advanced civilization and technology. If we can cooperate with the Ming Dynasty, it will undoubtedly bring us unprecedented development opportunities."

Then, the two sides had an in-depth discussion on the specific matters of cooperation. Zhu Han introduced in detail the advantages of the Ming Dynasty in trade, culture, technology, etc., and expressed his willingness to carry out multi-faceted cooperation with the tribes of Java Island. The chief of Padang listened carefully, nodded in agreement from time to time, and put forward some specific cooperation suggestions.

During the conversation, Zhu Han also noticed that the children in the tribe were very interested in the Ming Dynasty envoys. They gathered around the Ming Dynasty envoys and looked at these guests from a distant country with curiosity. In order to enhance the friendship between the two sides, Zhu Han specially prepared some small gifts for these children and encouraged them to study hard and become pillars of the tribe in the future.

As the sun sets, the sky gradually turns red with the color of sunset. Zhu Han's conversation with the chief of Badong is coming to an end. The two sides have reached a preliminary cooperation intention and agreed on a specific follow-up cooperation plan. At the time of farewell, the chief of Badong tightly held Zhu Han's hand, his eyes flashing with gratitude and expectation. "Ming envoy, thank you for coming. May our friendship be as colorful as this sunset and never fade."

Zhu Han smiled and responded: "Chief Padang, I hope our cooperation will be as deep and broad as this ocean. The Ming Dynasty will always remember this friendship from Java Island."

After bidding farewell to the chief of Badong, Zhu Han and his party were led to a banquet hall with simple and warm decorations at the warm invitation of the tribesmen. The hall was filled with a variety of delicious food, which was very appetizing.

"Your Majesty, please take a seat." Mr. Wang respectfully led Zhu Han to the main seat, and then introduced to everyone, "These are the most distinctive dishes in the tribe, and each one incorporates the wisdom and enthusiasm of the locals."

Zhu Han smiled and nodded in thanks. He glanced at the delicacies on the table and couldn't help but exclaimed, "It's really eye-opening with its color, aroma and taste." He first noticed a colorful seafood platter, which included lobsters, crabs, various fish and shellfish, which looked fresh and tempting.

"This dish is called 'Island Feast' and is a must-have delicacy for our tribe to celebrate the harvest." A young tribal woman came forward and explained in fluent Chinese, "These seafood are all caught early in the morning and are guaranteed to be fresh."

Zhu Han picked up a piece of lobster meat and tasted it gently. He felt that the meat was tender and delicate, which was completely different from the delicacies in the Ming Dynasty court. "It really lives up to its reputation. It is extremely delicious." He praised sincerely.

Then, the tribesmen brought a plate of fragrant roasted meat. The meat was golden in color, slightly charred on the outside and juicy on the inside. It was obvious that it was carefully roasted.

"This is our specialty barbecue, marinated with spices unique to the island and then slowly roasted with fruit wood." Another tribal man proudly introduced, "Your Majesty, you may want to give it a try."

Zhu Han took the barbecue and took a bite. He immediately felt a strong aroma bursting out in his mouth, intertwining with the aroma of meat, which was very memorable. "It's really delicious. The combination of spices and ingredients is just right." He praised it.

While tasting the food, Zhu Han also did not forget to communicate with the tribesmen, asking about the preparation methods of these foods and the cultural significance behind them.

"It's our honor that the prince is interested in our food." Chief Badong stepped forward with a smile on his face. "In fact, our tribe's food culture has a long history. Behind every dish there is a story and meaning."

Zhu Han listened with even greater interest. The Badong chief introduced the dishes on the table one by one, explaining everything from the selection of ingredients, cooking techniques to the cultural implications behind them.

"For example, this 'Coconut-flavored glutinous rice' is a must-have offering for our tribe's sacrifices." The chief of Badong pointed to a seemingly ordinary glutinous rice and said, "Glutinous rice symbolizes harvest and abundance, and the addition of coconut milk gives it a unique sweet taste. During the sacrifice, we will offer coconut-flavored glutinous rice to the gods and pray for a good harvest and peace in the coming year."

Zhu Han listened attentively and had a deeper understanding and respect for Javanese food culture. "I really benefited a lot. Thank you for your generous sharing," he said sincerely.

During the banquet, the tribesmen also performed traditional songs and dances. The cheerful rhythm and enthusiastic singing filled the entire banquet hall with laughter. Zhu Han and his party were also infected by this enthusiasm and joined the dance, dancing with the tribesmen and enjoying this cross-cultural friendship and joy.

As night fell, the banquet gradually drew to a close. Zhu Han stood outside the banquet hall, looking at the starry sky and the sparkling sea in the distance, his heart filled with emotion. "This mission not only allowed me to appreciate the customs and people of Java Island, but also made me deeply appreciate the exchange and integration between different cultures." He whispered to Mr. Wang beside him.

Mr. Wang nodded in agreement: "Your Highness is right. Food, singing and dancing, language... all of these are carriers of cultural exchange. Through this mission, we have not only enhanced our friendship with the tribes on Java Island, but also opened a new chapter in the exchanges between our Ming Dynasty and overseas countries."

Zhu Han smiled slightly, his eyes sparkling with anticipation for the future. "Yes, this is just the beginning. In the days to come, the exchanges between the Ming Dynasty and overseas countries will become more frequent and in-depth. As envoys, we have the responsibility and mission to promote all this."

The next morning, the sun shone through the treetops, dappling onto Zhu Han and his group as they prepared to set off for Madakaripura Waterfall to continue exploring the natural wonders of Java.

"Your Highness, today we are going to go upstream to the Madakaripura Waterfall. It is said that the scenery there is extremely magnificent and will definitely open your eyes." Mr. Wang introduced on the side, his excitement in his tone.

Zhu Han smiled and nodded, his eyes flashing with anticipation for the unknown beauty: "Such a beautiful view, how can I miss it? Let's go."

As the group embarked on the journey, the scenery along the way gradually became more rugged and charming. The mountain roads were rugged, the streams were gurgling, and the fresh air was refreshing. Zhu Han stopped from time to time to appreciate the natural scenery around him and exchanged his observations with his staff.

"The birds are singing in the mountains and forests, and the streams are so clear that you can see the bottom. It is truly a paradise on earth." Zhu Han exclaimed with admiration in his tone.

"Yes, Your Majesty. Java's natural scenery is unparalleled in the world, and every spot is a precious treasure bestowed by nature." General Li echoed, his eyes full of admiration. After a long journey, they finally arrived in front of Madakaripura Waterfall. The waterfall rushed down from the cliffs, the sound of water roared, and the silky water droplets sparkled in the sun, forming a gorgeous rainbow. The pool under the waterfall was crystal clear, surrounded by green trees, and it was beautiful.

"This scene can only be found in heaven, rarely seen in the world." Zhu Han looked at the waterfall in front of him and couldn't help but recite a poem in praise, his face filled with satisfaction and joy.

"Your Majesty, you are very talented. This scenery is really refreshing." Mr. Wang smiled and then suggested, "Why don't we take a rest here for a while, and Your Majesty can take the opportunity to appreciate the magnificence of this waterfall."

Everyone agreed, and then they found a flat stone beside the waterfall to sit down, enjoying this rare tranquility and beauty. Zhu Han closed his eyes, took a deep breath of fresh air, felt the gift of nature, and was filled with gratitude.

After a moment, Zhu Han opened his eyes and looked at the mountains in the distance. He felt proud and said, "This trip not only enhanced our friendship with Java Island, but also made me deeply appreciate the wonders of nature. When we return to Daming, we must share these beautiful views and stories with more people."

Mr. Wang nodded in agreement: "Your Majesty is right. Java's natural scenery and cultural heritage are both our precious wealth. We should cherish this friendship and promote exchanges and cooperation between the two countries."

After a short rest, the group continued on their way to their next destination, Ijen Crater Lake. As they gradually approached the crater, a faint smell of sulfur wafted into their noses, and a mysterious and solemn atmosphere permeated the air.

"This is Ijen Lake," said Mr. Wang, pointing to a dark blue lake in front of him. "The lake water here is rich in sulfur and has a unique color. It is a wonder of nature."

Zhu Han looked at the dark blue lake, his heart filled with shock and awe: "The power of nature is truly endless. This volcanic lake is not only beautiful, but also contains rich geological mysteries."

They slowly approached the lake, and saw the lake water sparkling with strange light under the sunlight, like a dazzling gem inlaid in the crater of a volcano. Zhu Han leaned down and gently touched the lake water, feeling the warmth and power from the center of the earth.

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"Your Majesty, this is not only a natural treasure, but also a holy place in the hearts of local residents." Mr. Wang explained, "They believe that the lake water has magical powers and can bring good luck and health."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Han felt even more respect and awe for this land: "We should respect the local culture and beliefs, and work together with the people of Java to protect this beautiful land."

As the sun sets, the group reluctantly leaves Ijen Lake and continues sailing. Although they are physically exhausted, their hearts are filled with satisfaction and joy.

After leaving Ijen volcanic lake, Zhu Han's fleet continued to sail along the coast. The sea gradually became rough, as if foreshadowing the coming storm. The crew members were busy reinforcing the hull and checking the equipment to prevent any accidents.

Just as everyone was preparing nervously, a lookout suddenly shouted loudly: "Your Majesty, there are a large number of unidentified ships ahead, and they are approaching us quickly!"

Upon hearing this, Zhu Han immediately went up to the deck and raised his telescope to observe carefully. In the distance, he saw several ships with strange decorations and fluttering flags breaking through the waves. The pirates on the ships were holding weapons and had fierce looks on their faces. It was obvious that they were not here with good intentions.

"It's pirates!" Zhu Han judged in a deep voice, then turned to his deputy general, General Li, and said, "Prepare for battle and protect the safety of the delegation."

General Li immediately conveyed the order, and the crew quickly entered the battle positions, some loading ammunition, some checking weapons, and the atmosphere suddenly became tense. Zhu Han personally commanded and arranged tactics.

"Mr. Wang, you must immediately organize the delegation members to enter the cabin and ensure their safety." Zhu Han instructed Mr. Wang, who was in charge of diplomacy.

Mr. Wang took the order and quickly organized the delegation members to evacuate to a safe area.

At this time, the pirate ships were approaching, and they began to shoot frantically, with arrows flying like raindrops. Zhu Han calmly commanded the crew to fight back, with cannons roaring and shells cutting through the sky, heading straight for the pirate fleet.

"Aim at the mainmast of the enemy ship and paralyze their command system!" Zhu Han ordered loudly.

The gunners quickly adjusted the angle and fired at the main masts of the pirate ships one after another. Soon, the main masts of several pirate ships collapsed, and the pirates fell into chaos.

However, the pirates did not give up easily. They continued to attack frantically with their numerical advantage. Seeing this, Zhu Han decided to take the initiative: "General Li, lead the elite sailors to approach the enemy ships in small boats and conduct boarding operations!"

Upon hearing this, General Li's eyes flashed with determination, and he responded loudly: "I obey your command!" He then quickly selected a team of elite sailors and prepared to attack in a small boat.

Seeing that General Li was ready to go, Zhu Han added, "General Li, this time we are on board the ship, we must fight quickly and decisively, and not linger. Our goal is to disrupt the enemy's formation and buy time for the fleet."

General Li nodded to show that he understood, and then led his elite sailors, riding on a small warship, braved the rain of arrows and rushed towards the pirate ship. On the sea, shouts of killing and the sound of weapons clashing came one after another, and a fierce sea battle began.

At the same time, Zhu Han stood on the deck of the main ship, calmly directing the overall situation. He held the command flag and issued instructions from time to time, adjusting the angle and density of the artillery fire to ensure that each shell could accurately hit the vital points of the pirate ship. (End of this chapter)