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

Zhu Han took out a roll of drawings from his sleeve and presented it respectfully: "Your Majesty, this is the schematic diagram of several key water conservancy projects that Biaoer and I drew during our incognito visit. I suggest that we start with these projects and gradually promote them to the whole country."

Zhu Yuanzhang took the blueprint and studied it carefully for a moment, with a hint of approval in his eyes: "This blueprint is very detailed and thorough, it seems that you have really put in a lot of effort. I will consider the matter of reducing taxes."

Zhu Yuanzhang gently put down the drawings, with a hint of approval in his eyes, and said in a deep voice: "Brother Han, the water conservancy engineering drawings you drew are indeed detailed and practical. However, it will take a lot of manpower and material resources to implement them, so I need to plan carefully."

Zhu Han bowed and said firmly, "Your Majesty is right. I know that this is not something that can be accomplished overnight. But I think that water conservancy is the foundation of agriculture and is related to the national economy and people's livelihood. I am willing to personally supervise the construction to ensure that the project goes smoothly."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded slightly and turned his gaze to Zhu Biao: "Biao'er, what do you think about this?"

Zhu Biao stepped forward, bowed and said, "Father, I think what Uncle Han said is very true. Water conservancy construction can not only solve the urgent needs of the people, but also lay the foundation for the long-term development of the country. I am willing to fully support Uncle Han and work together to promote this matter."

Zhu Yuanzhang heard this, a trace of relief flashed in his eyes: "Okay, since you two are so determined, I will fully support you. Handi, you will start preparing, select capable people, and start to build water conservancy projects. Biaoer, you will be responsible for supervising the officials in the court to ensure that the relief materials can be delivered in time, and severely punish the corrupt officials."

Zhu Han and Zhu Biao responded in unison, their hearts filled with excitement and determination.

Zhu Yuanzhang pondered for a moment and then said, "As for education, do you have any good ideas?"

Zhu Han pondered for a moment and said slowly: "Your Majesty, education is the foundation of the country and cannot be taken lightly. I think we can first establish official schools in various places, select good teachers, and teach children to read and write. At the same time, we can encourage private schools and provide certain subsidies to open up more paths for talents."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded slightly, his eyes showing a hint of depth: "This is a very good plan. Education is related to the future of the country and must be taken seriously. Brother Han, you should start preparing for this matter and make sure it is fair and just so that every child who is interested in studying can get a chance."

Zhu Han bowed and accepted the order, secretly thinking about how to implement this plan.

Zhu Yuanzhang turned to look at Zhu Biao and said earnestly: "Biao'er, as the crown prince, you have a great responsibility. You should not only pay attention to the current affairs, but also consider the long-term development of the country. It is your blessing to have my brother assist you. You must learn with an open mind and don't slack off."

Zhu Biao heard this and a hint of determination flashed in his eyes: "Father's teachings are engraved in my heart. I will work together with Uncle Prince Han to plan for the future of the Ming Dynasty."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded with satisfaction and waved his hand to signal the two to leave. Zhu Han and Zhu Biao bowed and left, their hearts full of longing and determination for the future.

After exiting the hall, Zhu Han and Zhu Biao walked side by side. Zhu Han said softly to Zhu Biao, "Your Highness, water conservancy and education are the foundation of the country. We need the joint efforts of you and me. Do you have confidence?"

Zhu Biao smiled slightly and said firmly: "Uncle Han, rest assured. Biao will do his best. With Uncle Han's assistance, Biao'er's confidence is doubled."

Zhu Han heard this, a trace of relief flashed in his eyes. He patted Zhu Biao on the shoulder and said earnestly: "Your Highness's determination is a blessing for the Ming Dynasty. You and I need to work together to contribute to the stability and prosperity of the Ming Dynasty.

Zhu Biao agreed and said, "Uncle Han is right. I am willing to go with you to various places to inspect and see the development of water conservancy with my own eyes. I can also learn from it and accumulate experience for future governance."

Zhu Han smiled slightly, feeling pleased with Zhu Biao's growth: "Your Highness, it is very good that you have such a thought. However, the inspection is very hard, Your Highness needs to be mentally prepared."

Zhu Biao straightened his chest, his eyes gleaming with determination: "Uncle Han, rest assured. Although Biao is young, he knows that his responsibility is heavy. For the sake of the Ming Dynasty, Biao is willing to go through fire and water without hesitation."

The two walked and talked, and before they knew it, they had reached the palace gate. Zhu Han stopped, turned around and said to Zhu Biao, "Your Highness, I hope you can think carefully about what we talked about today, and use what you have learned to govern the country."

Zhu Biao bowed and replied respectfully: "Uncle Han's teachings will be remembered by Biao'er. Biao'er will take his leave, and Uncle Han, please rest early."

Zhu Han watched Zhu Biao leave, secretly thinking about his next plan. One must know that water conservancy and education are not something that can be achieved overnight, and requires perseverance to be effective.

The next morning, Zhu Han got up early and prepared to go to the Ministry of Revenue to select capable personnel and start preparing various matters related to the water conservancy project.

Arriving at the Ministry of Revenue, Zhu Han went straight to the point and explained his purpose to the Minister of Revenue. Upon hearing this, the Minister of Revenue immediately summoned officials from the Ministry of Revenue to assist Zhu Han in selecting personnel and preparing supplies.

The Minister of Revenue said respectfully to Zhu Han: "Your Highness Prince Han cares about the people, which is a blessing for our Ming Dynasty. The Ministry of Revenue will fully support Your Highness to ensure the smooth progress of the water conservancy project."

Zhu Han nodded and expressed his gratitude: "Thank you, Lord Shangshu. This trip is not only to solve the current difficulties, but also for the long-term plan of the Ming Dynasty. I hope Lord Shangshu can understand my painstaking efforts."

The Minister of Revenue quickly bowed and saluted: "Your Highness Prince Han has a far-sighted vision, and I admire you very much. The Ministry of Revenue will do its best to live up to Your Highness's high expectations."

After a conversation with the Minister of Revenue, Zhu Han became more determined to promote the water conservancy project. However, to complete this huge project, he not only needed the support of the court, but also the full cooperation of local officials and the active participation of the people.

After leaving the Ministry of Revenue, Zhu Han did not return directly to the palace, but decided to visit several veteran officials who had rich experience in water conservancy to seek their guidance and support. He first went to the residence of the Minister of Works.

Inside the residence of the Minister of Industry, an old man with white hair and beard was leisurely sipping tea. Upon seeing Zhu Han coming, he quickly stood up to greet him: "Your Highness Prince Han, I am sorry for not coming to greet you from afar. I hope Your Highness will forgive me."

Zhu Han hurriedly stepped forward to support the old man, and said with a smile: "Your Excellency, the Minister is too kind. This time, I came here to discuss important matters." The two sat down in the study. After the servants served tea, Zhu Han stated his purpose directly: "My king wants to build water conservancy projects to solve the irrigation problems of the people, so I came to ask for advice from the Minister."

Upon hearing this, the Minister of Works' eyes flashed with approval: "Your Highness cares about the people, which is a blessing for the Ming Dynasty. Water conservancy is indeed the foundation of the national economy and people's livelihood. I wonder what specific plans Your Highness has?"

Zhu Han took out the blueprint from his sleeve, spread it on the desk, pointed to several key locations and said, "I have drawn schematic diagrams of several key water conservancy projects. I plan to start from these places and gradually promote them to the whole country. What do you think, Lord Shangshu?"

The Minister of Works carefully examined the blueprint and nodded in praise from time to time: "Your Highness, this blueprint is detailed and thorough, and it is indeed a good work. However, water conservancy projects are not achieved overnight. They require a lot of manpower and material resources, and the full cooperation of local officials."

Zhu Han nodded in agreement: "Your Excellency, the Minister is right. I have asked His Majesty to select capable personnel and start preparations. But I know that the power of the court alone is not enough. I still need the help of Your Excellency and the colleagues in the Ministry of Works."

The Minister of Works smiled slightly, stroked his beard and said, "Don't worry, Your Majesty, the Ministry of Works will give its full support. Although I am old, I am willing to serve Your Majesty and work together to develop water conservancy."

Zhu Han was overjoyed when he heard this, and he quickly stood up and saluted: "Your Excellency, Shangshu, is a man of high character. I am grateful to you. When the water conservancy project is completed, I will definitely ask for credit for you."

Afterwards, Zhu Han discussed in detail with the Minister of Works the specific implementation plan of the project, the required materials and personnel deployment, etc., until nightfall, the two ended the conversation with reluctance.

The next morning, Zhu Han, with the full support of the Minister of Works, once again entered the court, ready to report to Zhu Yuanzhang in detail on the preparations for the water conservancy project. In the court, all civil and military officials stood in a solemn and tense atmosphere.

Zhu Yuanzhang sat on the dragon throne, his eyes like torches, scanning the ministers below. Zhu Han stepped forward steadily, performed a great salute, and said in a deep voice: "Your Majesty, I have prepared for the water conservancy project according to your order, and now I will report the details to Your Majesty."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded slightly, signaling Zhu Han to continue. Zhu Han took out the blueprint, slowly unfolded it, and explained while showing it: "Your Majesty, this is a schematic diagram of several key water conservancy projects that I and Biaoer drew after personally visiting various places. I suggest that we start with several key places in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River and the Yangtze River Basin, and build irrigation channels to solve the irrigation problem for the people."

Zhu Yuanzhang carefully examined the blueprints and nodded from time to time, obviously quite satisfied with Zhu Han's plan. "Brother Han, you have thought carefully. This project will benefit the country and the people, and I am very pleased. However, this matter is of great importance and requires a lot of manpower and material resources. Do you have any good ideas?"

Zhu Han was well prepared, and bowed and replied: "Your Majesty, I have discussed with the Ministry of Revenue and the Ministry of Works, and decided to allocate silver from the national treasury first, and mobilize local officials and people to participate. At the same time, I have also drawn up a detailed supervision and assessment mechanism to ensure that every penny is used where it counts, and every effort can be maximized."

Zhu Yuanzhang was impressed when he heard this. "Well, I am very relieved that you have such a plan. However, this matter still needs a capable person to take charge of the overall situation. Do you have a candidate?"

Zhu Han thought for a moment and said, "Your Majesty, I think that this matter should be handled by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince. Biaoer cares about the people, is quite talented, and knows the local people's sentiments very well. If he presides over this matter, it will surely achieve twice the result with half the effort."

Zhu Yuanzhang turned his gaze to Zhu Biao, and a complex emotion flashed in his eyes. Zhu Biao hurried forward, bowed and said: "Father, I am willing to take on this important task, and I will not let you down."

Zhu Yuanzhang pondered for a moment, and finally nodded in agreement: "Okay, in that case, Biao'er, this matter will be handed over to you in full responsibility. Handi will assist you and make sure the project goes smoothly."

Zhu Biao and Zhu Han accepted the order in unison, their hearts filled with excitement and responsibility. Zhu Han knew that this was not only a huge project, but also an important test of Zhu Biao's ability.

After the court session ended, Zhu Han and Zhu Biao walked out of the court side by side. Zhu Han said softly to Zhu Biao, "Your Highness, this matter carries a heavy responsibility. I hope you will act with caution and do not disappoint His Majesty's high hopes."

Zhu Biao looked solemn and nodded, saying, "Uncle Han, rest assured. I will do my best to live up to the trust of my father and uncle."

Zhu Han nodded slightly, with a hint of approval in his eyes. "Your Highness is determined, which is a blessing for the Ming Dynasty. However, water conservancy is a complicated matter, and it cannot be accomplished overnight. Your Highness needs to be prepared for a long-term battle."

Zhu Biao looked determined and spoke in a steady tone: "Don't worry, Uncle Han, I will go all out and not be afraid of difficulties. However, the implementation of this water conservancy project still requires the cooperation and support of officials from all regions. I wonder if Uncle Han has any good ideas?"

Zhu Han pondered for a moment and said slowly: "Your Highness is right. The support of local officials is crucial. I think we can first send imperial envoys to various places to publicize the court's intention to build water conservancy projects and at the same time investigate the performance and conduct of local officials. Those who actively cooperate can be rewarded; those who are perfunctory will be severely punished."

Zhu Biao nodded in agreement: "Uncle Han's plan is very clever. It can not only motivate local officials, but also deter those who are optimistic. However, the selection of the imperial envoy must be carefully selected to convince the public."

Zhu Han smiled slightly, his eyes revealing profound wisdom: "Your Highness is right. We must be careful in selecting candidates. I suggest that we choose from among the upright and outspoken ministers with rich experience, such as Li Shanchang and Liu Bowen. They are popular and prestigious, and will definitely be able to handle this task."

Zhu Biao heard this and a trace of admiration flashed in his eyes: "Uncle Han is very thoughtful. I am grateful for your advice. However, this water conservancy project is very expensive. Can the national treasury afford it?"

Zhu Han shook his head slightly, his expression solemn: "Although the national treasury is rich, it has been tight due to years of war and disaster relief. I think we can mobilize the power of the people to encourage wealthy businessmen to donate, and at the same time reduce some taxes to encourage them. In addition, we can set up a special fund to ensure that every ounce of silver is used where it counts."

Zhu Biao heard this, and a trace of worry flashed in his eyes: "Although Uncle Han's method is good, it is difficult to predict how the people will respond. What if no one responds?"

Zhu Han smiled slightly, his eyes revealing confidence: "Don't worry, Your Highness. There are many knowledgeable people among the people, and there are many people who are grateful and repaying. As long as the court is sincere and takes appropriate measures, it will surely arouse the enthusiasm of the people. Moreover, even if there are not many responses in the early stage, it can be gradually promoted and the results can be shown to others, which will naturally win more support."

Zhu Biao nodded, his expression slightly relieved: "Uncle Han Wang's words make sense, Biaoer has learned his lesson. However, this water conservancy project is huge, it cannot be completed by one person, and it requires cooperation from many parties."

Zhu Han nodded in agreement: "Your Highness is right. Water conservancy projects require unity of purpose to succeed. I have already prepared a detailed plan, including the division of labor, material allocation, personnel arrangements, etc. Once Your Highness has reviewed it and found it correct, we can start implementing it." (End of this chapter)