Chapter 87

--- 4th of June 1897 ---

--- 3rd Person POV ---

--- Tokyo Imperial Palace ---

In the serene expanse of Ninomaru Garden, the morning of June 4th, 1897, unfolds with a delicate tranquility. The sun, still low in the sky, casts a gentle golden hue over the meticulously manicured landscape. Dew clings to the vibrant foliage, shimmering like a thousand tiny diamonds in the early light. The air is crisp, carrying the faint scent of blossoming flowers and the distant murmur of a flowing stream.

Amidst this picturesque setting, two individuals in their late forties stroll leisurely along a winding path. Their faces reflect the wisdom of age, etched with the lines of countless experiences. The man, tall and distinguished with a hint of gray in his hair, walks with a measured grace. His dark kimono, simple yet elegant, sways gently with each step. Beside him, a woman of equal grace moves with a serene poise. Her kimono, adorned with delicate floral patterns, mirrors the beauty of the garden itself.

Their conversation, soft and contemplative, weaves through the morning air.

Emperor Meiji, ruler of Japan, strolled through the serene Ninomaru Garden alongside his wife, Empress Haruko. The tranquil setting provided a stark contrast to the burdens of leadership that weighed heavily on his shoulders. As they walked, the emperor's mind churned with thoughts of modernization and the future of his nation. The garden, with its meticulously maintained flora and koi-filled ponds, offered a rare moment of peace in his otherwise turbulent life.

Empress Haruko, ever the supportive consort, sensed the turmoil within her husband's heart. Her presence was a calming force, a silent reassurance that he was not alone in his monumental task of transforming Japan. She glanced at him, her eyes filled with understanding and unwavering support, knowing that the path they walked was fraught with challenges but also brimming with potential for greatness.

The emperor's eyes occasionally rested on the blooming cherry blossoms, their delicate petals a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the enduring beauty of his culture. He drew strength from the garden's harmony, its balance a metaphor for the equilibrium he sought to achieve within his empire.

In the tranquil stillness of the garden, Empress Haruko paused, her gaze following the delicate descent of cherry blossom petals to the earth. "It seems," she remarked calmly, "that this year will prove a formidable test for our beloved nation and its people."

Emperor Meiji, his eyes fixed upon the falling petals, responded thoughtfully, "Yet in every challenge lies an eventual resolution. Our nation has long understood this truth."

Empress Haruko turned her attention to her husband upon hearing his words, replying with a hint of unimpressed resolve, "Perhaps. But remember, Meiji, the crises we faced during the retaking of the entire nation from the daimyos were far less significant than what we face now."

Emperor Meiji grimaced with discontent as he responded, "I am aware. I have observed and know for a fact that my ministers have been deceiving me about the developments on the ground."

Empress Haruko queried, "Is this why you couldn't go to Chōsen?" Her husband nodded in confirmation. "Hmmm... Your soldiers in Chōsen seem as inept and unreliable as the insects in their court," she retorted mockingly, shaking her head in disappointment.

Emperor Meiji agreed with a nod. "In hindsight, I should have gone there myself to oversee everything. Tss... Not only have we squandered resources on that territory, easily taken by those Butuanons, but we also paid a hefty sum to that useless prince."

Empress Haruko's countenance twisted in a mixture of disgust and contempt. "That man again," she muttered under her breath. Despite her fervent desire for the nation's territorial expansion, she had never anticipated encountering someone as dishonorable and repulsive as Prince Jae-myon.

Their meetings had been few—only three times in total—but each encounter left a bitter taste in Empress Haruko's mouth. To her, these interactions held no significance beyond their unpleasantness, etching themselves into her memory solely for their discomfort.

Empress Haruko had met Prince Jae-myon only a few years prior, finding his unrefined and barbaric audacity thoroughly appalling. In contrast, she had formed a close friendship with King Gojong, brother of Prince Jae-myon, during their visits to Joseon before her husband's cabinet aimed to expand inland territories.

The memory of King Gojong was one Empress Haruko cherished, a testament to his refinement and worthiness to rule. However, the political landscape quickly changed. Just weeks after the coup involving Prince Sunjong, Heungseon Daewongun, and the Northern faction of the Joseon Kingdom, King Gojong was deposed. Empress Haruko received an anonymous warning letter shortly thereafter, cautioning her against involvement in Joseon's affairs under threat of consequences.

Empress Haruko found it unsettling to receive such a letter—a direct and ominous threat, in her view. She immediately passed it to her husband, Emperor Meiji, seeking his counsel. Yet, Emperor Meiji, consumed by ambition to expand their influence into inland Asia, dismissed the letter without a second thought, much to Empress Haruko's disappointment.

As weeks passed uneventfully, their campaign to conquer Joseon proceeded smoothly, pushing it under their nation's umbrella. Empress Haruko eventually forgot about the warning from the mysterious sender. The allure of rivalling Butuan for authority over Asia had long captivated her ambitions. With Butuan remaining conspicuously silent and uninvolved in the Joseon affair, both Empress Haruko and Emperor Meiji believed its influence in the region was waning.

Thus, Empress Haruko's support for the conquest of Joseon, she severed her friendship with King Gojong and his fleeing family in Sooraj. Upon meeting the newly installed king and manipulating the Joseon court to favor Japanese soldiers, Empress Haruko and Emperor Meiji realized the potential to extend their influence across mainland Asia. This assurance came from Marquess Itō Hirobumi, Japan's current Prime Minister.

However, everything shifted with the death of Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc and his team, prompting Butuan to declare war on Japan and launch a campaign for territorial expansion. Initially unconcerned, Emperor Meiji believed Japan's rapid industrialization would secure victory or at least parity against Butuan, a maritime nation with numerous disconnected islands, making mobilization lengthy and challenging.

But Emperor Meiji's unbothered thoughts and stands were rocked and destroyed to pieces after hearing news of the sweep conquest the Butuan forces have at the Island of Formosa. And the dissolution of the entire naval forces in the Island, bringing the end of sea communication that the Japanese empire have over the island. The subsequent advances the Butuan forces made in Joseon and its surrounding waters cripples Japan in sending its main troops in Formosa and Joseon, due to superior naval strength of Butuan.

It was a huge damage to Emperor Meiji's ego upon hearing this news shattering his pride that steadily been growing for years, especially after he have just recently fully taken control of the empire after fully dismantling the entire Tokugawa shogun under his rule. These subsequent failed of his empire's navy and military put Emperor Meiji into confusion and question regarding the loyalty and capabilities of his men.

It wasn't until his own wife, Empress Haruko remembers the letter that was sent to them few months ago that Emperor Meiji have a realization and started to connect the dots. Resulting in him to demanding the presence of his ministers and made an adjustment with their plan. But their adjustments were nothing as the naval forces of Butuan continues to block the Japanese naval fleet from leaving the ports. What is bothering is the loss of spies they planted in Butuan, completely making it impossible for Emperor Meiji and Marquess Itō Hirobumi to know the current developments in Butuan.

"The echoes of our past mistakes reverberate through our present struggles," Emperor Meiji mused, his voice heavy with the burden of history. "Prince Jae-myon and King Sonjung's failures have left a bitter legacy that complicates our efforts against the Butuan Empire in Joseon. Their incompetence has paved the way for our current hardships."

Empress Haruko nodded; her expression somber. "And our hold on Formosa weakens with each passing day," she added, her tone laced with frustration. "We poured vast resources into that island, transforming it from a neglected territory into a thriving part of our empire. Yet, despite our efforts, resistance remains fierce. The Butuanons exploit this unrest, and our grip slips further."

The emperor's eyes narrowed, a flicker of anger crossing his features. "Formosa has been a cornerstone of our strategic interests. Its loss would be more than a territorial setback; it would signify a blow to our imperial pride and strength. The Butuanons' advance threatens to undo years of painstaking work and investment."

Empress Haruko sighed deeply, her gaze falling to the floor in a moment of profound disappointment. "With the British and French showing reluctance to aid us, and the United States displaying indifference following their setback in Hawai'i," she lamented, "we find ourselves isolated once more. Our adversaries surround us, emboldened by our vulnerabilities."

A weighty silence descended upon the room, the gravity of their predicament sinking in. Emperor Meiji's fists clenched with determination, his eyes reflecting unyielding resolve. "We cannot linger on past setbacks," he asserted. "We must unite our forces and bolster our defenses. If the Butuanons think they can break us, they are gravely mistaken."

Empress Haruko moved closer, her touch reassuring as she placed a hand on Emperor Meiji's arm. "Together, we will navigate this storm," she assured him, her voice steady with resolve. "Our people look to us for strength and guidance. We must not falter."

Emperor Meiji nodded, finding strength in his wife's unwavering support. "We will devise a strategy," he affirmed, his gaze unwavering. "One that will turn the tide in our favor. The Butuan Empire may have underestimated us, but we shall demonstrate Japan's true resilience."

As they strolled through the garden, seeking solace in its tranquil atmosphere, a breathless minister approached. His urgency was evident in wide eyes and rapid steps as he bowed deeply, struggling to catch his breath before delivering his message.

In the presence of Their Majesties, the minister arrived breathless, delivering dire tidings. "Your Majesties," he began urgently, "grave news reaches us. The Butuanons have launched an assault upon our ports, employing flying machines of unprecedented design."

Emperor Meiji's countenance hardened, his grip on his wife's hand tightening involuntarily. "Flying machines?" he queried sharply. "How many were deployed? What damage has been wrought?"

"The exact count eludes us, Your Majesty," the minister responded, his voice quavering. "The chaos that ensued after the initial explosion prevented an accurate assessment. They descended upon our ports with devastating precision, bombarding our docks and igniting our ships. The devastation is profound; our defenses were ill-prepared. Homes burned, and both naval personnel and nearby civilians fell victim to the onslaught. It was a nightmare."

Empress Haruko's eyes widened in horror at the minister's grim report. "Our ports are vital," she exclaimed, voice tinged with concern. "Without them, our naval capabilities are crippled, and our trade with other nations suffers. How could this happen?"

The minister bowed deeply, shame and fear evident in his posture. "The Butuanons," he began hesitantly, "have surpassed us with their technological advancements. Our defenses proved inadequate against their aerial assault. It appears they have been meticulously planning this for some time."

Emperor Meiji's mind raced as he processed the devastating news. The loss of the ports dealt a catastrophic blow that would severely hinder their ability to sustain the war effort. Yet, what intrigued both Emperor Meiji and Empress Haruko even more was the minister's uncharacteristic silence, sparking further curiosity and concern.

Intrigued, Emperor Meiji fixed a probing gaze upon the minister, asserting his authority. "Why do you remain silent? Is there something you are withholding from us?"

The minister, visibly concerned, hesitated as he glanced nervously between the royal couple. "Your Majesties," he began in a stuttered voice, "t-those flying machines have been reported heading this way."

A heavy silence descended upon the garden, once alive with the animated discourse of its three occupants, now hushed beneath the touch of the chilly winds that caressed their exposed skin. Fear crept insidiously through each of them.

Emperor Meiji had never known true fear in his life, not even during the battles to reclaim Japan from the Shōgun. However, facing the Butuanons and their newfound flying machines, he felt a profound sense of insignificance and powerlessness.

As the military saying goes, the fear of the unknown can reduce even the strongest of men to mere shadows of themselves.

Empress Haruko, her eyes still wide with shock and fear, turned urgently to the minister. "What must we do now? Our enemies have reached our shores and show no signs of retreating, according to your report."

In a now composed tone, the minister assured Their Majesties, "You need not worry about that. We have already prepared plans for your evacuation, along with your family."

Shortly thereafter, a group of Imperial Guards, escorting several ministers, entered the garden. They instructed Emperor Meiji and Empress Haruko to evacuate the palace and proceed to Kyoto. Empress Haruko welcomed the order with delight and jubilation, prioritizing her family's safety over the perils of battle. Emperor Meiji, however, held a different view. As he and his entire family were escorted by the Imperial guards and ministers towards the waiting carriage bound for the train station, he contemplated the journey to Kyoto with apprehension.

The trip was short and unobstructed as the carriage itself was escorted and given way by the people. Making the trip not last into an hour. Boarding the train were even further easy as Emperor Meiji and his family boarded their own private train for transportation. With members of the Imperial family already inside the train accompanied by the Imperial Guards, Emperor Meiji decided to remain in Tokyo and have his family head to Kyoto for safety at the Katsura Rikyū.

It was a huge shock for people present in the area upon knowing this, but with the Imperial Guards under his command. Emperor Meiji were able to force his will, even after explaining his reasoning to the people present.

"I understand the dangers, but my presence here serves a greater purpose. As the emperor, I symbolize the unity and resilience of our people. In these dire times, the citizens of Japan must see their emperor standing firm, unyielding in the face of adversity.

The evacuation of my family to Kyoto is a necessary precaution. It ensures the continuity of the imperial line, which is paramount. However, my duty as the leader of this nation is to be with my people, to provide them with a sense of stability and hope. If I were to flee, it could demoralize our forces and citizens alike, leading them to believe that all is lost." With these words, Empress Haruko and the others could not do further anything after hearing Emperor Meiji's resolve.

Thus, Emperor Meiji remains while his entire family heads to Kyoto to take refuge during the war. Emperor Meiji and the ministers and remaining Imperial Guards did not linger more on the station and left to head back to the palace which Emperor Meiji started to process the pace of things that have happened. While also preparing for the inevitable attack that Butuan have prepared for their nation.

Emperor Meiji's voice resounded through the council chamber, his gaze unwavering as he addressed his ministers and generals. "Focus our forces on protecting the capital," he commanded firmly. "Deploy our naval fleet to the surrounding waters. Intercept any ships from Butuan attempting to enter the Korean peninsula or Formosa Island."

His tone carried the weight of recent victories against the Qing Empire, yet his words held a cautionary edge. "Our past successes have bred arrogance. We have underestimated the Empire of Butuan, dormant though it may have seemed. Now is the time to demonstrate our strength, not only in diplomacy but also on the battlefield. Let them know we stand ready, face-to-face."

In the presence of Emperor Meiji, the ministers and generals listening felt a surge of excitement and revitalization. After enduring repeated failures and defeats at the hands of Butuanon soldiers, morale had steadily declined. The Emperor's words alone were sufficient to bolster their spirits and ignite a renewed determination to defend and fight for their nation.

While this is transpiring at the Empire of Japan and the Kingdom of Joseon. In the hearts of Sooraj, the Imperial City that have been closed to the public since the start of war against the Japanese. The heir to the Imperial throne of Butuan, Yuvraj Siagu Alexie of Butuan can be seen walking peacefully with his courtiers at the grounds of the Imperial City, savoring the scenery of peace and appreciating the traditional architecture of the entire place.

Chirps of birds and gushing of winds simultaneously made a harmonious sound, pleasant to the ears of Yuvraj Siagu and his entire entourage. With few people can be seen roaming the grounds of the Imperial City, mostly of which are courtiers and government officials. This is due to having been the city declared as closed to the public since the start of the war, bring the entire city back to its original purpose of housing the Imperial family and few key buildings of the empire and forbidding common people from entering.

"Hyungnim!" A cheerful and enthusiastic shout originating from the back enters Yuvraj Siagu's ears causing him to turn his attention to the origin of the sound.

Only to see a young Crown Prince Yeong running with full smile and a waving hand towards him. Behind the running Crown Prince Yeong are his entourage, trying to catchup and wanting to prevent the young crown prince to trip or even run.

"Seja!" A court lady shouted in distress, "Please don't run." She continues, huffing and buffing while trying to carry her hanbok along with the other courtiers, wanting to catchup with Crown Prince Yeong who have soon arrived in the presence of Yuvraj Siagu.

With smile to his face, "Yeong-ah, you have caused some troubles with your courtiers once again." Yuvraj Siagu stated as he tries to fix the crumpled hanbok of Crown Prince Yeong.

Since the past months of Crown Prince Yeong stay in Sooraj, Yuvraj Siagu have grown closer to the young prince and have started treating the young prince as his own brother. Making Yuvraj Siagu being allowed to address Yeong as Yeong-ah.

With a huge grin on his face Crown Prince Yeong replied proudly, "Hehehe that is because they are slow to catch with me."

But instead of seeing it as arrogant and boastful act, Yuvraj Siagu and his entire entourage found the reply and gesture of Crown Prince Yeong adorable and cute due to the young crown prince's cute appearance and small stature. Causing Yuvraj Siagu and his entire entourage to giggle and smiles in appreciation.

"Seja, I have told you before that running must not be made by any member of the Yi Clan in public places." Eunuch Ji-Hwan stated while catching his breath along with other courtiers of Crown Prince Yeong.

"It would be damaging to your image and the dignity of the royal family of Joseon Dynasty for a seja to be behaving uncontrollably and unruly." Court Lady Eun-sook seconded firmly after fixing herself and bowing to Yuvraj Siagu.

"But I am not fast… You are all just slow." Crown Prince Yeong stated innocently, causing everyone to smile a bit while Eunuch Ji-Hwan and Court Lady Eun-sook looks a bit offended. This is due to them feeling that Crown Prince Yeong's words are meant for them due to their old age and a bit bigger size.

"Seja!" Court Lady Eun-sook burst in shock which made Crown Prince Yeong retreat a bit in fear.

"Hai, Hai…" Yuvraj Siagu interjected, "That is enough already. Court Lady Eun-sook, running in public and private places might be forbidden on Crown Prince Yeong but that doesn't mean also that you are just going to reprimand him like that." Yuvraj Siagu intimidatingly stated while looking at the 35-year-old court lady of Crown Prince Yeong.

Yuvraj Siagu might have understood the rules of royal families in Asia and how strict they where since being reborn to this timeline. Yuvraj Siagu even made a comparison with how strict the rules of royal families in Asia compared to those in Europe, and Yuvraj Siagu thought that Asian monarchy have much stricter rules compared to the other royalties.

But despite this understanding and accepting these rules and reality, what Yuvraj Siagu never understand is the continuous shaming and reprimanding of members of the royal families on public. For months, since their stay on Sooraj, Yuvraj Siagu have observed and witnessed how Court Lady Eun-sook reprimand Crown Prince Yeong, almost shaming the young prince any location.

For months, Yuvraj Siagu have seen Crown Prince Yeong cried in shame and fear while being reprimanded in public by Court Lady Eun-sook, making Yuvraj Siagu feel sorry and hurt.

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Sorry for the unrefined chapters, I am not just in the mood while I am making these chapters (including the 3-4 chapters after this). Hope you understand.