The Journey to Malacca

(There are 2 version of narrative in this chapter. The new script format and the traditional one. It is recommended to read the script format.)

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Script format (including extra content)

[INT. DINING AREA - PALACE - MORNING]

It's been almost 3 months since Hffyl was stuck in time. Hffyl is enjoying breakfast in the palace when the attendant delivers surprising news.

Hffyl: (Chewing noises)

Palace Attendant: Selamat pagi, young master. His Majesty, Sultan Mahmud Shah II, has received a message from the Sultan of Malacca, Sultan Mahmud Shah.

Hffyl nearly chokes on his food.

Hffyl: Two Sultan Mahmud Shahs? This is going to be confusing.

Palace Attendant: It can be quite perplexing, indeed. Sultan Mahmud Shah II has been invited to Malacca by Sultan Mahmud Shah of Malacca. An important matter requires his presence.

Hffyl nods, trying to wrap his head around the situation.

Hffyl: So, Sultan Mahmud Shah II of Kedah is going to meet Sultan Mahmud Shah of Malacca?

Palace Attendant: Precisely. And you, young master, will accompany him on this journey to Malacca.

Hffyl: (eyes widen)...and what do I have to do with all of this? I've just come back from Pattani.

Palace Attendant: You have become a unique guest in our palace, and your presence may hold significance. Besides, Sultan Mahmud Shah of Malacca wishes to meet the famed 'Budak Langit' who has become quite the tale in his kingdom.

Hffyl: That's a mouthful

Palace Attendant: As a palace attendant, I must address each name properly to avoid conflict and disrespect.

Hffyl: Pronounce my name correctly, then.

Palace Attendant: Young master's name is an exception.

Hffyl: (ponders) Two Sultans, two Mahmud Shahs... This should be interesting.

Palace Attendant: Indeed. The Sultan of Kedah is Paduka Sri Sultan Mahmud Shah II ibni al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Adilin Mu'adzam Shah I, while the Sultan of Malacca is Sultan Mahmud Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Alauddin Riayat Shah.

And so, preparations are made for their journey to Malacca.

[EXT. KEDAH - HARBOR - MORNING]

In the bustling harbor, the majestic ship stands ready, its sails catching the gentle breeze. Hffyl marvels at the intricate designs on its hull and the bright flags fluttering atop its mast.

Syafiq: Ah, young Hffyl, it seems the winds have brought our paths together once again. I'll be joining you on this journey to Malacca to explore new trading opportunities. 

Hffyl: It'll be great to have you with us, Syafiq. But where's Pak Rahim?

Syafiq: Pak Rahim has responsibilities to attend to here in Kedah. But he sends his Salam and hopes for our safe return.

Hffyl: I'll miss his stories. But I understand.

The palace guards, decked out in full regalia, begin to assemble on the ship. Their stern faces and disciplined stance exude an air of authority, assuring all passengers of their safety.

Hffyl: They're here to protect us?

Syafiq: Indeed. The sea can be unpredictable. Having them ensures our journey is safeguarded.

With final farewells exchanged and their belongings secured, Hffyl and Syafiq board the ship, ready to sail towards Malacca and the adventures that await. As they embark, Hffyl steals glances at the other two ships.

Hffyl: (write down) The first ship, grand and majestic, represents Kedah's interests. The second, well-armed, carries supplies and guards for our safety... (turns around) And your ship, Syafiq?

Syafiq: A symbol of trade. It carries goods that will foster better relations between Kedah and Malacca. It's also a vessel of discovery, carrying us into unknown waters.

The calm waters of the Straits of Malacca gently rock the ships. Fishermen in small boats wave as they pass by, and occasional sea birds fly despacito in the air.

[EXT. STRAITS OF MALACCA - AFTERNOON]

Syafiq: You know, Hffyl, this strait has been a significant trade route for centuries. It's the reason Malacca is so prosperous.

Hffyl: (glances at the map) It's vast. (looks at the horizon) Hard to believe such a narrow stretch of water can be so significant.

Syafiq: Ah, but that's the beauty of it. This passage connects the East and West. Goods, cultures, ideas—they all flow through here.

As the journey continues, Hffyl is introduced to the various activities onboard. He watches sailors hoist sails, learns to tie knots, and even tries his hand at navigation under Syafiq's guidance. The evenings are filled with stories from seasoned sailors, sharing tales of sea monsters, mysterious islands, and legendary treasures.

Days turn into nights and back into days. Hffyl gradually gets used to the rhythm of life on the ship, where the horizon is the only constant.

[EXT. STRAITS OF MALACCA - MORNING]

As the three ships drew closer to the bustling port of Malacca, a chilling wind swept across the waters. The crew, once at ease, now tightened their grips on ropes and weapons as they scanned the horizon.

Lookout: Pirates ahead!

Syafiq: (looking through spyglass) Prepare the cannons! Man the muskets!

On the Sultan's ship, an officer give orders.

Officer: Ready the cannons! Protect the delegation!

As the pirate ship loomed ominously nearer, cannons on both sides of the defense ship thundered to life, sending deafening blasts across the water. The pirates, not to be outdone, returned fire with their own cannons.

Pirate Captain: Load the cannons, you dogs! Sink those ships!

A gunner on the Sultan's ship roared triumphantly.

Gunner: Direct hit on the pirate ship's hull!

But the pirate ship, though damaged, was far from defeated. Both the Sultan's ship and the defense vessel managed to fend off the attack admirably. However, the pirates saw an opportunity. They readied themselves to board Syafiq's merchant ship, their machetes gleaming ominously in the sunlight.

Hffyl, untrained in ways of combat, could only watch in terror as the pirates closed in. He swung his machete at an unexpected pirate. He dropped to the ground, shattered out of reality, and disappeared.

Hffyl: What's all of this?

A loyal guard snapped him back to reality.

Guard: Focus, young master! We'll worry about that later!

Just as it seemed their fate was sealed, a sleek and imposing ship approached. Its cannons fired with precision, zeroing in on the pirate ship.

: Stand down, you rogues.

The pirates, realizing they were outmatched, hastily withdrew, leaving Syafiq's beleaguered merchant vessel in relative safety.

As the dust settled and the threat receded, the crew and passengers gathered on Syafiq's ship, their hearts still pounding with the adrenaline of battle. Questions swirled in their minds, not only about the pirates but also about the figure who had come to their rescue.

Ship Captain: I am Captain Rahmat. You seem to have had quite the encounter.

Syafiq: I am Captain Syafiq, and this is Hffyl. We owe you our lives, Captain.

The crew and passengers were safe for now, gathered on the deck of the merchant ship, their thoughts filled with relief from the events.

The ships, with their proud masts and billowing sails, approached the lively port of Malacca. From afar, they were greeted by a sea of masts belonging to countless other vessels.

Syafiq: Behold! Malacca – where the world converges.

Hffyl: The sheer number of ships and people... like nothing I've ever seen.

Captain Rahmat: Malacca is the jewel of the east, where traders from distant lands gather, bringing with them some riches.

As they disembarked, they were immediately enveloped by the vibrant atmosphere of the port. Everywhere they looked, merchants energetically promoted their wares.

Spice Merchant: (in Malay) Fresh spices! From the Indies!

Silk Merchant: (in Malay) Exquisite silks, perfect for nobility!

Tea Merchant: (in Malay) Try the tea, sir! It's a delicacy!

Hffyl: It feels like the entire world has gathered in one place.

Syafiq: And did you notice? They all speak Malay.

A short distance away, the Sultan's ship was met with due ceremony. Malaccan officials, dressed in opulent attire, greeted them with respect.

Malaccan Official: Esteemed guests from Kedah. Sultan Mahmud Shah awaits your presence at the grand palace.

Lead Officer: We appreciate the warm welcome. Please lead us to Your Majesty.

On the other side of the port, Syafiq's merchant ship drew inquisitive glances. A local trader approached, eyeing the ship's cargo.

Local Trader: Ah, a ship from Kedah. What exotic treasures have you brought?

Syafiq: Come, join me for some drinks, and perhaps we can discuss potential trades.

Hffyl, though surrounded by the bustle of the port. The city's sights and sounds left him spellbound. As he wandered, a palace attendant approached, his gentle voice interrupting Hffyl's reverie.

Palace Attendant: You seem lost in the beauty of the city, young master.

Hffyl: There's just so much to see. Every corner feels like a new place.

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Original version (a bit outdated. recommended to not read)

Hffyl's life in 1509 had settled into a routine. He had grown accustomed to the customs and culture of Kedah, and each day seemed like a new adventure. However, one morning, as he was enjoying breakfast in the palace, the palace attendant delivered surprising news.

"Good morning, young master," the attendant greeted with a warm smile. "His Majesty, Sultan Mahmud Shah II, has received a message from the Sultan of Malacca, Sultan Mahmud Shah."

Hffyl nearly choked on his food. "Wait, there are two Sultan Mahmud Shahs? This is going to be confusing."

The attendant chuckled softly. "Indeed, young master, it can be quite perplexing. Nevertheless, Sultan Mahmud Shah II has been invited to Malacca by Sultan Mahmud Shah of Malacca. It seems an important matter requires his presence."

Hffyl nodded, trying to wrap his head around the situation. "So, Sultan Mahmud Shah II of Kedah is going to meet Sultan Mahmud Shah of Malacca?"

The attendant nodded. "Precisely. And you, young master, will accompany him on this journey to Malacca."

Hffyl's eyes widened in surprise. "Me? Why?"

The attendant smiled kindly. "You have become a unique guest in our palace, and your presence may hold significance. Besides, it's an opportunity to witness the grandeur of Malacca. I've received word from Sultan Mahmud Shah of Malacca. He wishes to meet the famed 'Budak Langit' who has become quite the tale in his kingdom."

Hffyl couldn't help but to feel excited. "Two Sultans, two Mahmud Shahs... This should be interesting."

"Indeed, the Sultan of Kedah is Paduka Sri Sultan Mahmud Shah II ibni al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Adilin Mu'adzam Shah I while the Sultan of Malacca is Sultan Mahmud Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Alauddin Riayat Shah."

And so, preparations were made for their journey to Malacca, a city that would hold new adventures and mysteries for Hffyl, and where two Sultans with the same name awaited their arrival.

In the bustling harbor, the majestic ship stood ready, its sails catching the gentle breeze. Hffyl marveled at the intricate designs on its hull, the bright flags fluttering atop its mast, symbolizing the pride of Kedah. The clamor of sailors and merchants, combined with the cries of seagulls overhead, added to the atmosphere of anticipation.

As Hffyl prepared to board, Syafiq approached with a broad smile. "Ah, young Hffyl, it seems the winds have brought our paths together once again. I'll be joining you on this journey to Malacca to explore new trading opportunities," he declared, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

Hffyl grinned back, "It'll be great to have you with us, Syafiq. But where's Pak Rahim?"

Syafiq's expression softened. "Pak Rahim has responsibilities to attend to here in Kedah. But he sends his blessings and hopes for our safe return."

Hffyl felt a tinge of disappointment. "I'll miss his stories," he sighed. "But I understand."

Just then, the palace guards, decked out in full regalia, began to assemble on the ship. Their stern faces and disciplined stance exuded an air of authority, assuring all passengers of their safety.

Seeing them, Hffyl whispered to Syafiq, "They're here to protect us?"

Syafiq nodded. "Indeed. The seas can be unpredictable. Having them ensures our journey is safeguarded."

With final farewells exchanged and their belongings secured, Hffyl and Syafiq boarded the ship, ready to sail towards Malacca and the adventures that awaited.

As they embarked, Hffyl couldn't help but steal glances at the other two ships. The first, grand and majestic, bore the standard of Sultan Mahmud Shah II of Kedah, signifying its regal purpose. It was the ship that would represent Kedah's interests in the upcoming meeting with the Sultan of Malacca.

The second ship was robust and well-armed, carrying supplies and a contingent of palace guards. Its purpose was clear: to defend the interests of Kedah and ensure the safety of the delegation during the voyage.

Amidst all this, Syafiq's ship stood as a symbol of trade and commerce, carrying goods that would hopefully foster better relations between Kedah and Malacca. It was also a vessel of discovery, carrying Hffyl and the crew into the unknown waters of the journey, both literally and figuratively.

The calm waters of the Straits of Malacca gently rocked the ships, reflecting the clear azure sky overhead. Fishermen in small boats waved as they passed by, and occasional sea birds danced in the air, sometimes playfully chasing the ships before returning to their own courses.

Hffyl, standing at the ship's railing, felt the sea breeze against his face and watched the rhythmic lapping of the waves. The vastness of the sea was a stark contrast to the confines of the town he had grown accustomed to.

Syafiq approached him, holding a rolled-up map. "You know, Hffyl," he began, pointing to the map, "this strait has been a significant trade route for centuries. It's the reason Malacca is so prosperous."

Hffyl glanced at the map, then looked at the horizon, "It's vast. Hard to believe such a narrow stretch of water can be so significant."

Syafiq chuckled, "Ah, but that's the beauty of it. This passage connects the East and West. Goods, cultures, ideas, they all flow through here."

As the journey continued, Hffyl was introduced to the various activities onboard. He watched as sailors hoisted sails, learned to tie knots, and even tried his hand at navigation under Syafiq's guidance. The evenings were filled with stories from seasoned sailors, sharing tales of sea monsters, mysterious islands, and legendary treasures.

Days turned into nights and back into days. Hffyl gradually got used to the rhythm of life on the ship, where the horizon was the only constant. The anticipation of reaching Malacca and the uncertainty of the reception they would receive added to the excitement of the journey.

As the three ships drew closer to the bustling port of Malacca, a chilling wind swept across the waters, unsettling the otherwise tranquil journey. The crew, once at ease, now tightened their grips on ropes and weapons as they scanned the horizon.

A lookout perched high on the mast cried out, his voice carrying a sense of urgency, "Pirates ahead!"

Syafiq, who had served as both a trader and sailor, wasted no time in taking command. His voice cut through the mounting tension, shouting orders to the crew, "Prepare the cannons! Man the muskets!"

On the Sultan's ship, an officer barked orders to protect the delegation, "Ready the wheel-lock pistols! Protect the delegation!"

As the pirate ship loomed ominously nearer, cannons on both sides of the defense ship thundered to life, sending deafening blasts across the water. The pirates, not to be outdone, returned fire with their own cannons.

The pirate captain, a menacing figure with a wild look in his eyes, shouted orders to his crew in a foreign tongue, "Load the cannons, you dogs! Sink that Kedah ship!"

A gunner on the Sultan's ship roared triumphantly, "Direct hit on the pirate ship's hull!"

But the pirate ship, though damaged, was far from defeated. Both the Sultan's ship and the defense vessel managed to fend off the attack admirably. However, the pirates saw an opportunity. With determined faces, they readied themselves to board Syafiq's merchant ship, their machetes gleaming ominously in the sunlight.

Hffyl, untrained in the brutal ways of combat, could only watch in sheer terror as the pirates closed in. However, as desperation overtook him, he found himself unsheathing a machete. His trembling hand found its target, taking down one of the pirates.

Hffyl's voice quivered with surprise and confusion, "Why aren't they disappearing?"

A loyal guard, fighting valiantly beside him, snapped him back to the grim reality, "Focus, young master! We'll worry about that later!"

Just as it seemed their fate was sealed, a sleek and imposing ship approached. Its cannons fired with deadly precision, zeroing in on the pirate ship and forcing it to retreat.

A commanding figure on the mysterious vessel called out calmly, "Stand down, you rogues, or face the consequences."

The pirates, realizing they were outmatched, hastily withdrew, leaving Syafiq's beleaguered merchant vessel in relative safety.

As the dust settled and the threat receded, the crew and passengers gathered on Syafiq's ship, their hearts still pounding with the adrenaline of battle. Questions swirled in their minds, not only about the pirates but also about the enigmatic figure who had come to their rescue.

The enigmatic figure extended a hand to Syafiq, introducing himself, "I am Captain Rahmat. You seem to have had quite the encounter."

Syafiq, his gratitude evident, shook Captain Rahmat's hand firmly, "I am Captain Syafiq, and this is Hffyl. We owe you our lives, Captain."

The tension of the moment was palpable, but the crew and passengers were safe for now, gathered on the deck of the merchant ship, their thoughts filled with both relief and curiosity about the events that had just unfolded on the unpredictable seas.

The ships, with their proud masts and billowing sails, approached the lively port of Malacca. From afar, they were greeted by a sea of masts belonging to countless other vessels. The distant echoes of merchant voices carried on the wind, competing with the sharp cries of seagulls overhead.

Syafiq stood tall, taking in the view, the nostalgia evident in his eyes. "Behold, Hffyl," he began with a hint of pride, "Malacca – where the world converges."

Beside him, Hffyl's eyes widened in amazement. "The sheer number of ships and people... It's like nothing I've ever seen!"

Captain Rahmat, a seasoned traveler, added his own perspective. "Malacca is the jewel of the east, where traders from distant lands gather, bringing with them a rich tapestry of cultures."

As the trio disembarked, they were immediately enveloped by the vibrant atmosphere of the port. Everywhere they looked, merchants energetically promoted their wares. One merchant waved bundles of aromatic spices in the air, "Fresh spices! From the Indies!" Another showcased gleaming silks, their colors shimmering under the sun, "Exquisite silks, perfect for nobility!". Yet another beckoned them to sample exotic fruits and freshly brewed tea, "Try the tea, sir! It's a delicacy!".

Hffyl, unable to contain his wonder, remarked, "It feels like the entire world has gathered in one place."

Syafiq chuckled. "And did you notice? They all speak Malay."

Nodding, Hffyl responded, "Yes, it's fascinating how it's become the language of trade here."

A short distance away, the Sultan's ship was met with due ceremony. Malaccan officials, dressed in opulent attire, greeted them with respect. "Esteemed guests from Kedah," one of the officials began, "Sultan Mahmud Shah awaits your presence at the grand palace."

The Sultan's entourage, with their heads held high, responded with grace. "We appreciate the warm welcome," the lead officer said, bowing slightly. "Please lead us to the Sultan."

On the other side of the port, Syafiq's merchant ship drew inquisitive glances. A local trader approached, eyeing the ship's cargo. "Ah, a ship from Kedah," he said with a nod. "What exotic treasures have you brought?"

Syafiq responded with a twinkle in his eye. "Come, join me for tea, and perhaps we can discuss potential trades."

Hffyl, though surrounded by the bustle of the port, felt a sense of serenity. The city's sights and sounds left him spellbound. As he wandered, a palace attendant approached, his gentle voice interrupting Hffyl's reverie. "You seem lost in the beauty of our city, young master."

Hffyl grinned, looking up. "There's just so much to see. Every corner feels like a new place."

The group continued on, drawn into the heart of Malacca. And looming ahead was the majestic palace, a symbol of power and grandeur, where significant conversations awaited with the renowned Sultan Mahmud Shah of Malacca.