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

Zhu Biao sat upright, his eyes focused, like a student eager for knowledge. "Okay, Mr. Li, please start."

Mr. Li began to explain the pronunciation, meaning and usage of the words one by one, while Zhu Biao followed and took notes carefully, asking questions from time to time.

"This word means 'friend' in Xiongnu language. Pay attention to the position of the tip of your tongue when pronouncing it." Mr. Li demonstrated the pronunciation while speaking. Zhu Biao listened carefully and then tried to imitate.

After several rounds of practice, Mr. Li nodded with satisfaction: "Your Highness has learned very quickly and your pronunciation is quite accurate. Next, let's try some simple sentences."

Zhu Biao excitedly turned to the next page, which contained some examples of daily conversations. "Okay, for example, this sentence, 'Hello, my friend.'" He tried to put the words together.

Mr. Li corrected with a smile: "It's very close, but the word order needs to be slightly adjusted. In Xiongnu, it should be like this..." As he said that, he clearly repeated the correct sentence.

Zhu Biao listened carefully and tried again until the pronunciation and word order were correct. As time went by, the sound of the two teaching and learning echoed in the study, and the atmosphere was both serious and full of fun.

In the afternoon, the sun shines through the window lattice and onto the desk, adding a bit of warmth to the quiet learning atmosphere. Zhu Biao looks a little tired, but his eyes are shining with the light of knowledge.

"Mr. Li, I think the structure of the Xiongnu language is very different from our Ming language, but it has its own unique charm." Zhu Biao said while rubbing his eyes.

Mr. Li smiled and said, "Indeed, each language reflects the essence of its culture. Mastering the Xiongnu language will not only help Your Highness communicate better with the Xiongnu people, but also help you understand their way of thinking more deeply."

Zhu Biao nodded in agreement: "I came to study with this idea in mind. I hope that before I go on a diplomatic mission, I can at least reach the level of daily communication without any obstacles."

Mr. Li encouraged, "Your Highness is so talented and hardworking, you will definitely achieve your wish. Next, we can try some more complex conversation exercises."

So, the two continued to devote themselves to the intense and orderly study. Zhu Biao sometimes frowned in thought, and sometimes suddenly became enlightened. Every little progress made him feel happy.

As time went by, Zhu Biao's Hun language skills improved day by day. Not only could he speak daily conversations fluently, but he could also understand some more complex cultural expressions. This effort not only benefited him a lot, but also made the staff and scholars around him admire him deeply.

One evening, after finishing a day's study, Zhu Biao stood alone in front of the window of his study, looking at the sunset outside the window, his heart full of emotion. "Learning a language is like opening a window to another culture," he whispered to himself.

At this time, Mr. Li walked in quietly, and smiled when he saw this, "Your Highness, have you gained something today?"

Zhu Biao turned around, his eyes flashing with determination and expectation: "Yes, Mr. Li. I feel more and more that this mission to the Xiongnu is not only for peace, but also an opportunity for cultural exchange. I hope that through my efforts, the friendship between the Ming Dynasty and the Xiongnu will become deeper."

Upon hearing this, Mr. Li's eyes flashed with relief: "Your Highness is so knowledgeable, it is a blessing for the Ming Dynasty. Although I cannot accompany Your Highness on the mission, I will definitely pray for Your Highness from behind. I hope Your Highness will have a smooth trip and complete the mission successfully."

Zhu Biao bowed gratefully and said, "Thank you Mr. Li for your teachings and encouragement. I will do my best to live up to your expectations."

In the study, Zhu Biao continued to discuss the Hun language learning plan with Mr. Li. His eyes revealed his seriousness and anticipation for the upcoming mission.

"Mr. Li, although I have mastered some basic vocabulary and daily expressions, I am well aware that this mission is of great importance and no details can be taken lightly." Zhu Biao said seriously, his tone full of responsibility.

Mr. Li nodded in agreement. "Your Highness is right. In order to ensure the success of the mission, we do need more thorough preparations. In addition to your continued in-depth study of the Xiongnu language, it is also extremely necessary to bring along professional translators."

"That's exactly what I mean." Zhu Biao continued, "I think we can select a few envoys or merchants who are proficient in the Xiongnu language from among those who have had long-term exchanges with the Xiongnu to serve as accompanying translators. Not only do they have strong language skills, they also have a deep understanding of Xiongnu culture and can convey our intentions more accurately."

Mr. Li pondered for a moment and added, "Your Highness has thought it through. In addition, in order to ensure the accuracy and professionalism of the translation, we may also organize a simulated dialogue training to simulate various communication scenarios that may be encountered during the mission, so that Your Highness and the translators can adapt in advance."

Zhu Biao's eyes lit up and he praised, "This is a great idea! Simulating dialogue can not only test our language skills, but also help translators become familiar with the mission process and improve their ability to respond. Mr. Li, I'll leave this matter to you."

Mr. Li bowed and replied, "As you command, Your Highness. I will start preparations immediately to ensure that everything goes well."

In the study, Zhu Biao was studying the map on the table carefully under the flickering candlelight, brows furrowed, thinking about every detail of his mission to the Huns.

"Mr. Li, this mission to the Xiongnu is a long journey and full of unknowns. We must make a careful itinerary plan." Zhu Biao looked up at Mr. Li, the aide in charge of itinerary arrangements, and his tone revealed unquestionable firmness.

Upon hearing this, Mr. Li immediately stepped forward, bowed and said, "Your Highness is absolutely right. I have already started preparing the itinerary plan. Please take a look at it." As he spoke, he handed over a detailed draft itinerary.

Zhu Biao took the draft and read it carefully, marking key points with a red pen from time to time. He pointed to a point on the map and asked, "The terrain here is steep and there are often bandits. How can we ensure safe passage?"

Mr. Li was well prepared and explained, "Don't worry, Your Highness. I have already ordered people to contact the local authorities in advance and ask them to send troops to escort us. At the same time, we will also strengthen the escort force."

Zhu Biao nodded slightly to show his satisfaction, but then pointed out another problem: "During this trip, we need to cross a large grassland. If we encounter bad weather, how should we deal with it?"

Mr. Li pondered for a moment and replied, "Your Highness has considered everything. I have arranged for the accompanying supplies to include sufficient dry food and drinking water, as well as necessary cold-proof and warm items. At the same time, we will also pay close attention to the weather forecast and adjust the itinerary in time to avoid traveling in bad weather." Zhu Biao nodded approvingly and continued to read the draft itinerary. Suddenly, he frowned and asked, "Why do you stay here for so long? Is there a special reason?"

Mr. Li explained: "Your Highness, this place is an important distribution center for trade between the Xiongnu and the Ming Dynasty. We plan to stop here, on the one hand, to replenish supplies, and on the other hand, to communicate with local Xiongnu merchants, learn more about the Xiongnu's customs and habits, and prepare for subsequent negotiations."

Zhu Biao heard this and a hint of appreciation flashed in his eyes: "This is a great plan. It can not only solve practical problems, but also enhance understanding. It kills two birds with one stone. However, during our stay here, we must strengthen our vigilance and ensure safety."

Mr. Li bowed and responded, "Don't worry, Your Highness. I have made comprehensive arrangements to ensure your safety during your stay."

Zhu Biao continued to review the itinerary, raising questions and suggestions from time to time, and discussing the best plan with Mr. Li. The two sometimes bowed their heads in contemplation, and sometimes had heated discussions, and the atmosphere was tense and heated.

Zhu Biao put down the pen in his hand and slowly moved his eyes on the map, as if he was engraving every detail into his mind. He looked up at Mr. Li, his eyes revealing a firmness after careful consideration: "Mr. Li, I have some ideas about the route of this mission. Let's consider it carefully."

Mr. Li bowed and replied, "Your Highness, please speak. I am all ears."

Zhu Biao pointed to a river intersection on the map and said, "Do we need to set up a supply station here? Considering the uncertainty of water sources along the way, we should stock up enough clean water and food in advance, just in case."

Mr. Li thought for a moment and nodded, "Your Highness has considered it carefully. This place is indeed an important waterway transportation route, and it is necessary to add a supply station. I will immediately arrange for personnel to prepare."

Zhu Biao looked at another area marked as "dense forest" and frowned slightly. "It is said that wild animals often appear in this dense forest. We need to be especially careful when we march through it. In addition to strengthening vigilance, should we also consider hiring a local guide?"

Mr. Li replied, "Your Highness is right. The dense forest is indeed full of dangers. I will contact the local authorities to see if I can find an experienced guide to ensure the team's safe passage."

Zhu Biao nodded slightly, and his eyes swept over the entire itinerary again. Suddenly he thought of something and said, "Also, our trip is not only for peaceful negotiations, but also an opportunity for cultural exchange. If there is a chance along the way, we might as well arrange some interactions with the people to showcase the culture and etiquette of our Ming Dynasty and enhance mutual understanding."

Upon hearing this, Mr. Li's eyes flashed with admiration: "Your Highness's kindness and medical skills are a blessing to our Ming Dynasty. I will carefully plan to ensure that these interactions are both safe and effective."

Zhu Biao nodded with satisfaction, and then changed the subject to talk about security issues: "Regarding security, in addition to strengthening the escort force, I also want to add a rapid response team to the team to deal with emergencies. What do you think, Mr. Li?"

Mr. Li pondered for a moment and said, "Your Highness is far-sighted. Adding a rapid response team can greatly enhance the ability to deal with emergencies. I will select elite personnel and provide special training to ensure that they can play a role at critical moments."

Zhu Biao stood up, walked to the window, looked at the night outside, and revealed an unquestionable determination in his tone: "This mission is related to the peace and future of Ming Dynasty and Xiongnu. We must go all out and cannot make the slightest mistake. Mr. Li, everything is up to you."

Mr. Li bowed and said firmly, "Your Highness, rest assured. I will do my best."

Zhu Biao paced in the study, frowning, thinking about the various possibilities on the way to the Xiongnu. He turned to Mr. Li and said, "Mr. Li, in addition to strengthening the escort force, we also need to formulate a detailed emergency response plan to prevent any accidents."

Upon hearing this, Mr. Li nodded solemnly, "Your Highness is right. I will start preparing immediately. However, please let me know what aspects of this emergency response plan should include."

Zhu Biao pondered for a moment and said slowly: "First, we need to prepare for several possible emergencies, such as encountering bad weather, getting lost, and conflicts with the Xiongnu tribe. For each situation, there must be clear response measures and responsible persons."

Mr. Li listened and took notes, nodding his head from time to time to show his agreement: "I understand. How should we do it specifically?"

Zhu Biao continued, "For example, when encountering bad weather, we must prepare alternative routes and temporary shelters; if we get lost, we need to carry enough compasses and maps, and train someone to be responsible for navigation; as for conflicts with the Xiongnu tribes, we need to remain calm, try to avoid direct confrontation, and quickly contact the nearest friendly forces or local authorities."

After hearing this, Mr. Li's eyes flashed with admiration: "Your Highness has thought it through. I will immediately incorporate these measures into the plan."

Zhu Biao nodded slightly and changed the subject: "In addition, medical equipment and medicines are also indispensable. During a long journey, injuries and illnesses are inevitable. We must be fully prepared."

Mr. Li quickly responded, "Don't worry, Your Highness. I will select highly skilled accompanying physicians and bring enough commonly used medicines and first aid equipment to ensure that the team can receive timely treatment in an emergency."

Zhu Biao nodded with satisfaction, and then raised a new question: "Also, we will not only face the test of nature, but also deal with the complexity of people's hearts. How to ensure the unity and stability within the team is also an important aspect we need to consider."

Mr. Li was slightly stunned when he heard this, and then he reacted: "Your Highness is far-sighted, and I have overlooked this point. I think we can enhance the trust and tacit understanding among team members through regular team building activities and psychological counseling, and at the same time establish a clear reward and punishment mechanism to ensure that everyone can do their best and complete the task together."

Zhu Biao nodded approvingly. "Very good. These measures are very necessary. Mr. Li, you must not only incorporate these details into the emergency response plan, but also ensure that every accompanying personnel can fully understand and implement these measures."

Zhu Biao stood in the middle of the study, looking at the members of the delegation who were about to accompany him to the Xiongnu. He felt a great sense of responsibility and determination. "Everyone, this mission to the Xiongnu is not only about the peace between the two countries, but also an important opportunity for our Ming Dynasty to show its etiquette. Therefore, we must be impeccable in diplomatic etiquette."

Zhu Biao turned to the staff member in charge of etiquette training and said in a deep voice: "Mr. Wang, how is the diplomatic etiquette training going?" (End of this chapter)