Chapter 63 The Fall of the Republic

--- 24th of March 1897 ---

--- 3rd Person POV ---

--- Iolani Palace, Hawaii (Inside Preside Dole's Office) ---

"Calm down, Former Marshal. Their deaths will only further escalate this coup," Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh said before pushing Marshal Hitchcock against the wall and handing a paper to President Dole. "Sign this, Mr. President, and you shall live. Refuse, and darkness will be your end."

Instead of signing, President Dole ignored the document with a mere glance, refusing to endorse its contents. And why would he? Essentially, the papers outlined his resignation as president, the dissolution of the republic, and the restoration of power to the Kalākaua Dynasty. They proposed Princess Kaʻiulani as the new queen of the revived Kingdom of Hawaii, replacing the former queen.

However, for Dole, this solution wasn't optimal. He had toiled tirelessly, steadily amassing power since his entry into the legislature during Hawaii's monarchy era. His efforts aimed at consolidating authority, eventually culminating in curbing the monarchy's power and ousting the queen through a coup. He had progressed too far to contemplate relinquishing power now—it would be akin to severing his own roots, were he a tree.

President Dole harbored dreams of Hawaii joining the United States, gradually seeing the republic of Hawaii becoming a state. His efforts extended to appealing to the U.S. Congress, securing approval from both houses, and anticipating the president's declaration, paving the way for Hawaii's imminent accession to the U.S. For him, individuals like himself, of Caucasian descent, should govern—not those of African descent. He firmly believed it was his divine right, sanctioned by both church and law, to usher the nation of Hawaii into the fold of the United States.

President Dole's refusal to sign the document didn't perturb the masked man, Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh. To him, this reaction was anticipated from someone in power. It would have been far more surprising if President Dole had readily signed the papers.

Observing this, Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh had already made preparations in advance. These preparations were intended to compel President Dole to sign the papers. A faint smile appeared on his face, visible only to Marshal Hitchcock and the Former Marshal, yet it was the former marshal who comprehended the true meaning behind Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh's smile.

"I understand. You see, Mr. President, we anticipated your reluctance in signing these papers. We are not as ill-prepared as you may think. We acknowledge that this might take a few hours, but our presence here is not without foresight," Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải paused briefly before reaching for his black briefcase, which had been quietly resting on the floor. This pause allowed President Dole and Marshal Hitchcock a moment of confusion as they turned their attention toward Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh.

"A while back, Marshal Hitchcock inquired about our means of entry. The simple answer to that is, we infiltrated your ranks by planting a mole among your soldiers a few days ago. A mole whom all of you have considered an ally. Am I correct?" Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải stated with a smile before attention shifted to the person entering as the office door opened.

Upon seeing the new arrival, shock and disbelief once again etched across the faces of Marshal Hitchcock and President Dole. The man in question was among those who joined Wilcox during the 1895 rebellion aimed at overthrowing the republic. Later, he joined the National Guards after being acquitted, eventually earning a promotion to guard the President. None other than Charles Thomas Gulick—the man Marshal Hitchcock and President Dole had trusted, believing him to be on their side—entered the room.

"Gulick..." Marshal Hitchcock muttered, observing Charles Gulick, who now sported traces of blood on his National Guard Uniform.

Gulick, also known as Charles Thomas Gulick, emerged as a key figure in the 1895 rebellion aimed at restoring the monarchy against the existing republic. He meticulously crafted a new constitution in anticipation of the rebellion's success, although his vision remained unrealized when the uprising failed. Subsequently apprehended, he faced trial and charges of rebellion, but was ultimately acquitted, along with others involved.

Seeking to safeguard his people, Gulick joined the National Guard, eventually rising to a position tasked with protecting the president, leading a contented life. However, his tranquility was disrupted months ago when he was approached by Wilcox and Lane, old friends with whom he had dined. Together, they devised a plan to reignite the rebellion, a prospect that greatly appealed to Gulick, particularly due to the potential reinstatement of the monarchy.

Following the calculated strategy of Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải and others, events unfolded as planned, notably the swift siege that transpired tonight. Gulick played a pivotal role in facilitating Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải and the others' entry into the palace compound, significantly reducing their challenges and complications.

"Good evening, President and Marshal," Charles Gulick blandly acknowledged the two figures.

"It appears it was you who betrayed us. Tss. I should have suspected that when I first encountered those bastards, Nowlein and Lane outside," Marshal Hitchcock realized, voicing his thoughts. However, instead of receiving an answer from Gulick himself, there was only silence.

About to protest, Marshal Hitchcock was interrupted when Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải suddenly extracted something from the black briefcase, positioning himself beside the window. From there, he could witness the ongoing continuous firing on the grounds. The item he held was a gun resembling those used by soldiers, distinguished only by its design and the materials used. Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải then proceeded to attach an improved optical sight, resembling a smaller version of a telescope, onto the gun's top. This firearm was a Karabiner 98 kurz, known in the Empire of Butuan as the Karter 98B.

"Yosh… This has taken quite some time already. We should have been almost done by now. Tss." Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải stated before aiming and then…

*POW*

*POW*

*POW*

Here's a revised version of the text with some improvements in English:

Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải fires the gun he's holding one after another. With each shot, individuals fall. The bodies fall similar to how a bag of rice fall from a higher elevation. Unlike other guns that have much smaller accuracy, especially at this distance, Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải shoots precisely.

The continuous fall of national soldiers hiding behind trees and rocks frightens and confuses the minds of the republic soldiers. This situation is unfamiliar to most of them, causing the majority to flee towards the palace, fearing for their lives. However, this turns out to be a fatal mistake as they become exposed to Nowlein and his men, prompting Nowlein's forces to retaliate by opening fire on the exposed enemies.

Instantly, the area once filled with the sounds of gunshots is now resonating with screams of pain, agony, and disbelief. Overlaying these cries are the cheers of Nowlein's men. To Nowlein and his comrades, these soldiers, who were their fellow countrymen, are nothing but traitors following individuals greedy for power and money.

The battle outside the palace ended abruptly, without even a moment to spare. It resulted in the death of 90% stationed national guards and police in the palace, while those who surrendered found themselves confined to a separate room, bound by ropes that immobilized their every move.

As the sudden silence enveloped the surroundings, a stark realization dawned upon President Dole and Marshal Hitchcock. They had lost—the Iolani Palace had fallen. These were the haunting thoughts plaguing President Dole and Marshal Hitchcock. Meanwhile, Wilson and Gulick reveled in celebration within. Finally, they could envision the future of this tiny nation liberated from the grasp of America and its controlling influence.

"Now that the outside events have concluded. Hmm... I should have acted sooner, but regardless... President Dole," Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh remarked before setting down the Karter 98B and turning toward President Dole, who was currently restrained by Gulick holding a revolver.

"So, President Dole, I understand that you are unwilling to sign these papers for a smooth resignation. Therefore, I've brought Mr. Gulick here to inform you of the events preceding his assumption of your office, President Dole—a message from your people," Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh explained, drawing everyone's attention toward Charles Gulick. However, President Dole, now restrained and unable to face Gulick, clenched his fist in anger and frustration.

"Sign the papers. These are the last words of those who were taken by my comrades. Even your family, who resides on this island, has been taken hostage, including Marshal Hitchcock's. Your wife pleaded desperately for you to convince the president to sign the papers," Charles Gulick stated firmly and directly, catching the two bound individuals off guard.

"YOU MONSTERS! RELEASE MY WIFE AND CHILDREN!" Marshal Hitchcock exploded, causing Former Marshal Wilson to react, propelling Hitchcock toward Charles Gulick, who remained composed while pointing a gun at President Dole's head.

*BAM!*

"Ugh! *Tud*"

A gunshot from Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh's revolver struck Marshal Hitchcock's left thigh, causing him to groan in pain as he collapsed to the floor. Clutching his bleeding thigh, the Marshal cast an angry, pained gaze toward Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh.

"Yo… you!" Marshal Hitchcock uttered through gritted teeth of pain and anger while looking at the masked Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh.

"Calm yourself, Marshal. This isn't the conduct expected of a military officer," Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh said with a smile, before issuing a command. "Help him up and let him sit," he ordered, followed promptly by Former Marshal Wilson.

"Now, Mr. President... I presume you're already aware of our recent actions. Indeed, the attack on the Iolani Palace isn't the sole incident. Throughout the night, individuals of significance to you and your associates have fallen under the control of our comrades. Their fates, whether you choose to sign these documents or not, will hinge upon your decision in this world," Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh declared as he once again positioned the papers on the table, awaiting President Dole's signature.

However, just moments earlier, President Dole remained resolute and unwavering in his refusal to sign the documents. Despite his concerns for his family and others, his ambition to integrate the nation of Hawaii into the US reigns supreme.

Furthermore, with United States soldiers stationed on this island, President Dole is convinced that these recent events have bolstered their support. With over 200 robust soldiers at hand, President Dole holds a steadfast belief that they will come to their aid against these insurgents. The presence of these US soldiers grants President Dole an unparalleled sense of confidence. He firmly believes that despite the rebels' numbers, they will ultimately succumb to fear in the face of the power wielded by the eagle's might.

President Dole, displaying confidence, pride, and composure, attempts to taunt Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh, who remains masked. Instead of encountering irritation, President Dole is surprised to perceive a broad, mocking smile beneath the masked visage of the Second Lieutenant.

Despite President Dole's accuracy in his observation, he overlooks a crucial factor—a variable that significantly impacts his confidence and tranquility.

Just before the commotion resulting from the conflict at the Iolani Palace, near the port of the capital city, Honolulu, Hawaii, two colossal ships lay docked side by side. Both vessels bore almost identical characteristics, save for one distinction: the ship on the left boasted superior armament, while its counterpart on the right possessed a more modest yet potent weaponry. However, the most conspicuous disparity lay in the flags flying from their respective sterns.

The vessel on the left proudly displays the flag of the United States of America, featuring its iconic red and white stripes. Positioned in the upper-left corner is a blue box adorned with 45 stars. Beneath the American flag waves the flag of the United States Navy. Conversely, on the right ship, the flags flying proudly belong to the Empire of Butuan and its Imperial Navy.

The national flag of the Empire of Butuan is distinguished by a central division of blue and red, representing peace within the empire. The blue section is situated on the left, while the red occupies the right side. Emblazoned at the heart of the flag is a radiant sun boasting eight rays, each bearing three smaller rays. Below the national flag of the empire is the flag of the Imperial Navy.

As the BEB Agusan I, an enhanced iteration of the Mersey-class protected cruiser of the British Royal Navy, opened its doors, a platoon comprising 230 naval soldiers emerged. They were armed with Springfield Model 1892–99 rifles, donning their impeccable naval uniforms, and marched in a disciplined manner, following the lead of their captain, Lord Ashwin Vikram of Palawan. He is the second son of the current Duke of Palawan, Duke Samir Vikram Sharada of Palawan.

Seriousness and irritation were evident on Lord Ashwin Vikram's face as he led his men toward the center of the Republic of Hawaii's capital. Lord Ashwin's irritation stemmed from the events that had transpired. He and his men were supposed to return to their naval base in Palau to take a well-deserved rest after spending days at sea. However, for some unknown reason, his uncle, Marquess Alexander Tuburan, who also serves as the Vice Admiral of the Eastern Seas of Butuan, commanded him to head to this isolated island.

This island grappled not only with defining its own identity but also with the decision of being governed by individuals of pure white foreign descent or native origins. The sole redeeming factor of this nation for Lord Ashwin Vikram was the presence of the woman tied to his beloved younger brother, residing here as a princess of the royal family. While Lord Ashwin initially opposed the relationship between Princess Kaʻiulani and his brother, Lord Rohan Harish, his stance changed after spending time with both of them together.

The sudden arrival of BEB Agusan I first alerted the manned naval officers aboard the USS Boston. The officers aboard the USS Boston were stunned to witness the Butuanon Imperial Navy soldiers marching toward the capital. Witnessing this, an officer from the USS Boston hurried to the Arlington Hotel, aiming to inform his captain, Captain Francis M. Ramsay, and the others about the arrival of the Butuanon Imperial Navy soldiers and Lord Ashwin Vikram.

A few minutes later, Lord Ashwin Vikram and his entire team arrived outside the Arlington Hotel, seeking a meeting with the captain of USS Boston. Their request was granted, allowing the two captains, accompanied by their respective executive officers, to converse in a private room at the Arlington Hotel in the middle of the night, while the remaining navy soldiers stayed outside.

As their conversation progressed, sudden loud explosions occurred in four different areas near the hotel. The onset of the battle not only drew the attention of Captain Francis M. Ramsay but also that of the US naval officers. Meanwhile, Captain Ashwin Vikram of Palawan remained composed, calmly sipping his tea, while his executive officers stood quietly behind him.

When Captain Ramsay and his executive officers attempted to leave the room and head toward the explosions, they were obstructed by the executive officers of Captain Ashwin Vikram of Palawan. This action caused Captain Ramsay to erupt in frustration and demand an explanation directly from Captain Vikram. However, instead of providing a straightforward answer, he responded with a statement…

"As the Emperor of Butuan consistently emphasizes, 'Let them address their own issues.' I believe the United States wouldn't desire to antagonize Butuan by intervening in the affairs of this minor republic. Am I correct in assuming so, Captain?"

Although Captain Ramsay was inclined to insist on leaving the room, he recognized that forcing an exit now would only sour relations with Butuan. He comprehended that, presently, Butuan wielded significantly more strength and international influence compared to their own. Yet, he also held the belief that these individuals would be left behind by their own advancements in just a few years.

Unable to strategize further on how he and his men could outmaneuver Captain Vikram and his team, Captain Ramsay finally relented and reluctantly took his seat. Meanwhile, Captain Vikram dispatched one of his senior officers to placate the navy soldiers stationed outside.

Captain Vikram continued his conversation with the increasingly anxious Captain Ramsay, who couldn't shake off his concerns about the unfolding events in this small republic. Despite Captain Ramsay's mounting anxiety, leaving the Arlington Hotel at this moment was out of the question.

This single factor caused President Dole's hopes to crumble into nothingness. He realized that his hope had been shattered by a simple mocking smile from his captor, Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh, along with Marshal Hitchcock's captor. President Dole also recognized that no trace of the US navy soldiers had been spotted, even after several hours had passed since the explosions.

In President Dole's perspective, a mere message from their soldiers would have sufficed to deter the rebels, yet his hope was forsaken. This was the very hope he had clung to for the future of the tiny nation of Hawaii.

Feeling betrayed and abandoned, President Dole finally gazes down at the papers spread before him. This action by President Dole brings a smile to Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh, Former Marshal Wilson, and Charles Gulick. They find satisfaction in witnessing the once-confident and prideful President Dole reduced to a laughable state. Meanwhile, Marshal Hitchcock, noticing President Dole poised to sign the papers, struggles free from the former marshal's grasp and delivers a swift punch to his face.

Marshal Hitchcock swiftly moves toward the masked individual (Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh) in anger, who only observes Hitchcock's approach with indifference. President Dole and Charles Gulick, caught off-guard, are confused by the masked man's inaction. Their confusion is answered by a sudden jolt of pain to President Dole's head and the echoing sound of a revolver being fired, filling the entire room.

*Bang!*

*Thud*

The sound echoed through the president's office as Marshal Hitchcock's lifeless body hit the floor. Silence once again engulfed the room, marked by shock and fear etched on President Dole's face. Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh and Charles Gulick appeared indifferent, while former Marshal Wilson, annoyed, wiped the blood from his mouth, casting a disdainful glance at Hitchcock's corpse.

"Damn it. Fucking bastard. I should have been more attentive instead of getting carried away with the signing. Tss. My apologies to both of you. Looks like we've lost someone already," former Marshal Wilson remarked, addressing Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh and Gulick.

"Let it be. What's done is done. He brought it upon himself," Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh replied before refocusing on President Dole, who now trembled in fear. Despite the president's advanced age, neither Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh nor the other two felt any remorse for placing him in his current situation. For Wilson and Gulick, especially, President Dole deserved such treatment."

"Dear President, now is the time. Sign these papers or face the same fate as your Marshal. Our patience is limited, President."

Upon hearing Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh's words, President Dole lifted his head and addressed the Lieutenant, trembling with fear, "Will you release me after signing these papers?" President Dole inquired, his voice stuttering.

Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh nodded in response, confirming the president's query while maintaining a firm demeanor.

This reassured the now trembling President Dole, calming him slightly. He reached for his pen, his hand shaking as he signed all the papers scattered across his table. It was almost ludicrous to witness – the once robust and proud president reduced to a frail old man, quivering while scribbling on the documents. Yet, in that moment, President Dole valued his life more than the fate of the tiny island nation. His usual sources of confidence and pride had deserted him, leaving him to fend for himself. The sole word echoing in his mind was 'survive,' compelling him to comply with Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh's demands.

Furthermore, the masked figure assured him of safety afterward. This assurance alone drove President Dole to hastily sign everything. Not to mention, two revolvers were now aimed at him – one by Wilson and the other by Gulick.

However, unknown to President Dole, Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh wasn't certain about what would befall the president once everything concluded. While Dole might be secure in his own estimation, Nguyễn Hải Anh couldn't predict the intentions of Wilcox and his team, particularly Wilson and Gulick, who harbored deep animosity towards President Dole and his allies.

With the final flourish of the pen, President Sanford Dole completed the signing of the papers. The republic had fallen, President Dole had been defeated, and the monarchy emerged victorious. These were the thoughts that crossed Wilson and Gulick's minds as they observed Sanford Dole finish his signature.

It was finally over—the struggle for power to determine Hawaii's leadership had concluded. After three arduous years under the republic and the dominance of American influence, the people of Hawaii had reclaimed their independence. Tears of joy and exhaustion streamed down Wilson and Gulick's faces as cheers and laughter reverberated throughout the entire compound. Second Lieutenant Nguyễn Hải Anh proudly hoisted the flag of the Kingdom of Hawaii outside Sanford Dole's office window along with the flag of the royal house of Hawaii.

"President Dole has finished signing the papers," they murmured to each other, a mixture of emotions filling the room.

Amidst the crowd where some faces were adorned with smiles while others shed tears of both joy and sorrow, there arose a unified cheer and celebration. 'The republic has fallen! Victory is ours! Glory to the royal family of Hawaii!' echoed through the air.

In the secluded confines of a distant palace's private library, veiled by the cloak of night, a solitary figure orchestrates a clandestine symphony. A shadowy silhouette, seated in the tranquility of midnight, gazes intently at a meticulously crafted map adorned with wooden chess pieces and miniature soldiers, strategically positioned across various nations.

With an aura of quiet confidence, the silhouette places a regal crown piece alongside a soldier's token, both finding their place on the serene shores of the Pacific, within the diminutive yet historically significant confines of the island nation of Hawaii. 'The republic shall falter,' murmurs the enigmatic figure, anticipation enshrouding the words. 'The United States' march across the Pacific shall soon encounter an unforeseen detour. Hawaii, poised to reclaim its monarchial essence, will rewrite the narrative of destiny. All progresses in perfect accordance with my grand design.'

Intrigued eyes shift toward the neighboring lands of Joseon and Japan, where king chess pieces sit, flanked by an armada of ships gracing the seas. These meticulously positioned ships seem to stand guard against unseen forces, portraying a tableau of strategic intent.

A faint smile graces the enigmatic strategist's lips, a subtle expression of satisfaction. As the ships encircle the lands of Joseon and Japan, an unspoken orchestration unfolds—a ballet of power and calculated moves in the grand theater of global politics.

-----

Happy New Year, everyone!!

Here is my gift to you all! Sorry if this style of war is not within your linking but I really tried though. Hehehe. Please don't forget to vote and post a review and a comment!

Enjoy the last day of the year, everyone!