Chapter 99

--- 3rd Person POV ---

--- 04th of March 1898 ---

"Over the years, before and after the separation of the Rajahnate's religion to the Catholic faith, a lot of individuals helped the nation into establishing and strengthening its own religion," Archbishop Adam started to explain with gleam on his voice, "The third person I am going to introduce to you is St. Rajendra of Palawan also known as St. Rajendra 'The Unifier of Doctrine'. Born in 1679, he used to serve as a priest under a Spanish priest, despite the discrimination and beating he received for being an indio. After hearing the separation of Butuan from the Catholic faith, St. Rajendra opted to convert into the Aylashanism faith after months of prayer and fasting.

By the year of 1717, St. Rajendra was appointed by Rajah Siagu X as to be the first Archbishop of Palawan and to also be the custodian of the Temple of Palawan, the third holiest site in the Aylashanism religion after Jerusalem and the Temple of Sooraj. And while in office, St. Rajendra he started consolidating and codifying the religious practices of Aylashanism after its initial formation.

With the approval of the then Rajah Aakesh II, under the Pemangku Rajah (Regency) of Samrat (Marquess) Jain. St. Rajendra started to organized the clergy and formalized the structure of the Aylashan faith, establishing a hierarchy that centered on the Maharaja as both the political and spiritual leader. St. Rajendra's final act before his death is the first and only religious military order of Butuan, the Order of Butuan, tasked on guarding sacred relics and holy sites of the faith. Currently, the order has a total of 2 thousand active soldiers, all are under the disposal of the Maharaja and the Council of Palawan.

The next one is the very first saint whom is a woman. Recognize as a martyr just years after her death, St. Aditi of Mananga became also known as St. Aditi 'The Scholar', this due to her deep intellectual and spiritual insight, St. Aditi of Mananga is one of the most revered saints of the Aylashan faith due to her contribution. She was a philosopher and theologian who wrote extensively on the synthesis of reason and faith, drawing from both Butuanon philosophy and Christian doctrine.

She was originally shunned on being accepted as a saint due to her gender, but during the early reign of Maharaja Siagu XI and the indorsement of the council, St. Aditi was elevated as a saint, having her ashes moved to the foot of Mount Kalilis, the mountain where the Temple of Palawan is located." Archbishop Adam stated with calm and pride on his voice, relaying to Yuvraj Siagu the information that he needed as the future head of the Temple of Butuan.

With the passing of time, Archbishop Adam continues to narrates the people whom contributed greatly to the faith since its founding. From St. Yashaswini of Mindanao whom received the moniker of St. Yashaswina of Peace due to contribution in bringing peace during the Muslim uprising in the Sabah Region. She was also credited for bringing thousands of Muslims to the Aylashanism faith after evangelizing and tirelessly caring for the people.

Another saint being mentioned by St. Lakshmi of Calayaan also known as St. Lakshmi 'The Defender of the Faith'. Born in the year 1790, she was the only woman who joined the Order of Butuan and later joined the military to fight against the Europeans. She died defending the faith by refusing to abandon a temple in Hainan Region. She was found dead at the altar of the temple, mutilated and was rape by the enemies.

St. Lakshmi of Calayaan was also one of the patrons of nuns of the Temple of Butuan. Although her sainthood was challenge due to her way of expressing her belief, she was elevated and recognize by the temple as a saint after Mahajaraj Caharan III recognizes her contribution to the temple.

Other saints were also mentioned by Archbishop Adam, revolving around their life and contribution and the cause for their sainthood. Some were due to the improvements of the faith, doing deeds that benefited the nation and the faith, others were due to their martyrdom and devotion that despite facing their death at the hands of infidels, they remain faithful.

Not long after, without noticing it, the time of their meeting came to an end. Which made Yuvraj Siagu delighted and almost creaming out of joy as despite his interest in these topics, he still has a child's body and get easily got bored. Not to mention that the voice of Archbishop Adam, in Yuvraj Siagu's opinion, is just like one can easily got sleep to.

Even Senior Eunuch Radhesh cannot stop himself from yawning while listening to the discussion between Archbishop Adam and Yuvraj Siagu. His excitement was also over the roof after hearing that the session finally came to an end. And seeing his mater's reaction, Senior Eunuch Radhesh could not help it but giggle silently to his master's silliness.

As Archbishop Adam bid his farewell and exited the quarter after denying the offer of Yuvraj Siagu to assist him to the exit of the estate. Yuvraj Siagu decided to head to the garden of the estate to have some snack, this was after getting the approval of Senior Eunuch Radhesh after confirming the calmness of the weather. It is already 3 in the afternoon and it has been two hours already since the session between Yuvraj Siagu and his tutor started, a little relaxation in the garden would surely help his mind.

But while on his way to the garden, Yuvraj Siagu decided to visit his mother first to her quarter. Upon arriving, he saw his mother, Maharani Alice sitting on a chair doing some embroidery accompanied by her abagaanays, with an addition of three baby cradles housing three beautiful children, his younger sister and brothers. A smile itch at Yuvraj Siagu's face seeing her mother's fast recovery since giving birth.

After saying hello and kissing to his mother for greetings, Yuvraj Siagu decided to go directly to the cradles of his younger siblings. Love and affections were visible on Yuvraj Siagu's face while staring at his sleeping younger siblings. With the eldest of the three is Kiran, followed by Arin, while the last one is a girl is Anaya. All of them are in good and healthy shape.

It has been months already since his mother given birth to triplets, it was a tense moment for the entire family as it was rare to have a triplets born in the Imperial family unlike twins. Not to mention that during the delivery, Yuvraj Siagu's mother was having complications due to stress. Thus, despite the preparations made by Yuvraj Siagu, it was inadequate, even Doctor Rizal was almost caught off-guard, good thing that he manages to recover quickly and react professionally.

Without noticing it, Yuvraj Siagu's aunt, Maha Samrati Advika of Haikou came to his side and started to talk to him.

"Want to touch them, Siagu?" Aunt Advika affectionately offered while smiling to his face.

"They were sleeping, Tante Advika." Yuvraj Siagu replied while leaning on Rajkumar Arin's cradle, affectionately staring at him.

(A/N: Tante is a Westernize Malay term for Aunt.)

Smile appears on the face of Maha Samrati Advika while looking at her nephew staring at his younger siblings. It has been months already since she returned back in the court of Butuan after returning home to be with her family in Haikou. Despite only spending less time at her own house, she was willing to return in haste in Sooraj after hearing the news of her younger sister giving birth to her children.

Spending time with her nephews and niece made her fell like a mother once again as her own children were already adults. And with the addition of another 3 children to the family, Maha Samrati Advika could not help it but be proud of her sister's effort and dedication of producing heirs to the family.

As Yuvraj Siagu leaned affectionately over Rajkumar Arin's cradle, his gaze softened, the weight of responsibility and love for his siblings visible on his young face. The gentle touch of Aunt Advika's hand on his shoulder brought a comforting warmth.

"They grow so quickly, Siagu," Maha Samrati Advika said softly, her eyes tracing the delicate features of the triplets. "Before you know it, they will be running around the palace, causing all sorts of mischief."

Yuvraj Siagu chuckled, imagining the lively palace with the energy of his younger siblings. "I'll be ready for that," he replied with a grin. "But for now, they deserve all the peace they can get."

"And you my child also deserve some peace while in your age." Maharani Alice suddenly interjected as she carries Yuvraj Siagu in an instant towards the bed.

Shock and flustered due to sudden lift made by her mother, Yuvraj Siagu started to turn red in embarrassment due to his weight and age, he even seeks some eyeing help to his tante. But instead of receiving some help, giggles of the abagaanays were the one entering Yuvraj Siagu's ears, causing him to further turn red in embarrassment.

"Mama, I am not a kid anymore to be carried like this." Yuvraj Siagu protested while burying his head to his mother's neck to hide.

With a giggle of amusement, Maharani Alice replied, "But in my eyes you are still a child."

As Maharani Alice lay Yuvraj Siagu in the bed and started to cover him with some blanket, Yuvraj Siagu once again tried to protest and be stopped being treated like a child.

"Mama, I am not sleepy and I am heading to the garden to relax, not in here." He protested while still blushing in embarrassment after still seeing his mother's abagaanays still giggling and few of the courtiers doing the same.

Even Senior Eunuch Radhesh were giggling in secret, yet after noticing that his master was looking at him, Senior Eunuch Radhesh hold his giggle instantly and turn his back, not wanting to be seen and face his master.

"Hush!" Maharani Alice whispered softly, gently pressing a finger to Yuvraj Siagu's lips with a playful smile. "Even if you are not sleepy, you'll stay here with me for a moment longer. Let me indulge in this."

Yuvraj Siagu's face flushed even more as he realized that despite all his protests, his mother's affection was unwavering. He buried his face deeper into the blanket, hoping to hide from the giggles around the room, but secretly enjoying the warmth of his mother's care.

"Mama-" Yuvraj Siagu muttered but was silence with a glare from his mother.

"Shhhh. I told you already to just let me have this," Maharani Alice interrupted, tucking the blanket around him more snugly. Her tone was both teasing and protective.

"Alright, Mama," Yuvraj sighed, giving in to the moment. "But just for a little while."

Maharani Alice smiled, brushing a lock of hair from his forehead. "That's all I ask, my dear. Just a little while."

With that, Maharani Alice started to hum the song she always sings to Yuvraj Siagu before going to bed. Hearing his mother humming the song, Yuvraj Siagu could not help it but felt nostalgic and felt emotional. It has been a long time since he heard his mother hum the song to him and hearing it now made Yuvraj Siagu felt calm and sleepy, unexpectedly.

Seeing her older child about to close his eyes, a smile of longing and affection appears on Maharani Alice's face while gently caressing her older child's face and hair. A gentle and loving expression replaces the teasing expression that she shows a while ago.

"You should act like your age instead of pushing yourself to be an adult, my little dragon." Maharani Alice affectionately stated while gently smiling to her son, who is now fast asleep.

"Your son is growing too fast," Maha Samrati Advika commented as she stands near her younger sister whom is still busy observing her oldest kid.

"Indeed, Ate." Maharani Alice replied, "But I wish my little dragon would remain to be as kid and enjoy his days instead of acting like an adult and starts to worry on things that he shouldn't be worrying."

Maharani Alice sighed softly, her hand still gently stroking Yuvraj Siagu's hair as he slept soundly. The sight of her firstborn, who was maturing far too quickly in her eyes, filled her with a mix of pride and longing. She cherished his intellect and sense of responsibility, but there were moments like this when she wished he could remain her carefree little boy a while longer.

"Ate, I sometimes feel like he's carrying the weight of the world on those young shoulders," Maharani Alice continued, her voice barely above a whisper. "He talks about politics and the future like a grown man, but he's still my child… still so young."

Maha Samrati Advika stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on her sister's shoulder. "He's extraordinary, Alice. His mind is sharper than most adults, but you're right to worry. There's plenty of time for him to carry the burdens of leadership. Right now, he deserves to be a child."

Maharani Alice nodded, her gaze lingering on Yuvraj's peaceful face. "I know. That's why I try to hold on to these moments, even if he feels embarrassed by it. I want to protect that innocence for as long as I can."

Advika smiled warmly at her sister's words, knowing the challenges ahead for Yuvraj. As the heir to the throne, he would soon face the complex world of politics, power, and responsibility. But for now, in this quiet moment, he was just a boy—her nephew, her sister's little dragon, and someone who still needed the warmth and care of his family.

"He's in good hands, Alice," Maha Samrati Advika reassured her. "You're guiding him with love, and that will always be his strength."

Maharani Alice smiled faintly, her heart swelling with a mix of gratitude and determination. "Thank you, Ate. I just hope that when the time comes, he'll be ready to soar, but also remember where he came from… and the family that loves him."

The two sisters remained by Yuvraj Siagu's side, watching him sleep, their hearts united in the same hope—for him to grow into the strong leader he was destined to become, but to always carry with him the love and care that had shaped him.

--

"Happy birth day to you!" the crowd sings in unison as Yuvraj Siagu watches his younger brother, Maharajkumar Ainesh celebrates his 9th birthday. Attended by almost all members of the Imperial family, foreign royals and dignitaries, and local nobles and ministers, the entire garden of Diliwata Estate became lively.

Joy and excitement were visible on Yuvraj Siagu's younger brother's face while looking at the feist prepared for his birthday. But Yuvraj Siagu knew that the reason for his younger brother's excitement are the gifts prepared for him.

But before everyone could start eating and personally greet Yuvraj Siagu's younger brother, their papa, Maharaja Siagu XV decided to give a message first of thanks and congratulatory to Maharajkumar Ainesh for reaching the age of 9. Even their own mama, Maharani Alice leaves a message of thanks to the guest for attending and for Rajkumar Aines, wishing him a good health and a prosperous life as a Rajkumar of the Butuan Empire.

Even Yuvraj Siagu were able to talk and congratulate his younger brother for becoming a 9-year-old boy. Promising him great gifts and a wonderful day, which Maharajkumar Ainesh thanked with a gentle kiss on his cheeks. Causing the crowd to smile while looking at the sibling's loving moment.

With the end of his message, Yuvraj Siagu decided to went far from the crowd, not wanting to steal the attention from his younger brother's special day. Along with Yuvraj Siagu is his two male cousins and his fiancé, conversing in secret while looking at the ongoing charades of events. Talking about the people whom attended the event, judging them basing on their clothing wore in the occasion.

The influx of European royals and dignitaries did not go unnoticed by the keen eyes of Yuvraj Siagu, nor by the others present. Their presence stirred mixed feelings, especially among the local elite and visiting allies from the Eastern nations. For many, like Princess Khao, the sight of these Europeans evoked discomfort, a reminder of the strained relations and tumultuous history that Butuan and its neighbors had experienced with the Western powers.

Yuvraj Siagu, despite being only ten years old, had already anticipated this moment. The demonstration of Butuan's technological prowess—the unveiling of the empire's first airplanes—had captured the world's attention. But the attention wasn't only positive. Yuvraj knew that it had ignited a spark of both curiosity and suspicion among the Western powers. The rapid modernization of Butuan, combined with its growing alliances in the East, made it a focal point for foreign espionage.

While the dignitaries from Europe exchanged pleasantries with the Butuanon nobility, Yuvraj Siagu observed them quietly, his expression more reserved than usual. Behind the cordiality and the formalities, he could sense a deeper motive. The West was watching, waiting, probing for any signs of weakness or opportunity to exploit. Spies would surely flood the empire soon, if they hadn't already. The advancements in military technology, the rise in regional power—Butuan was becoming a key player on the global stage, and with that came risks.

Yet, despite his foresight, Yuvraj Siagu understood the limitations his father, the Maharaja, faced. The current government's resources were stretched thin, and the personnel required to track and catch these foreign agents were far too few. They could not risk allowing information to slip into the wrong hands. And so, as the wheels of his mind turned, Yuvraj resolved to take action.

He would assist his father in developing the empire's economy, bolstering it to the point where they could afford to defend their secrets and solidify their position on the global stage. His goal was clear: to raise Butuan's budget by four to six times, creating the financial foundation necessary for both military and economic security.

The future of the empire, its sovereignty, and its strength in this new era depended on swift and decisive action, and Yuvraj Siagu would stop at nothing to ensure that Butuan remained untouchable in the face of growing threats from the West.

As the last of the guests left the grand celebration, the palace grounds gradually emptied, and a peaceful quiet settled over the capital. The day had been long, filled with formalities, speeches, and an endless array of greetings and diplomatic exchanges. Yuvraj Siagu, though mentally sharp, was physically exhausted. His small body, not yet accustomed to the rigors of statecraft, felt the weight of the day's events.

He walked slowly back to his quarters, his legs heavy and his mind clouded with thoughts of what lay ahead for Butuan. The need to fortify the empire's economy, to shield it from the encroaching influence of the West, and to secure its place on the world stage all pressed heavily on him. Yet, for now, all he wanted was a moment of rest.

Entering his room, Yuvraj Siagu collapsed onto his bed, the soft cushions embracing him as he exhaled deeply. The quiet hum of the palace at night, usually so calming, only heightened his exhaustion. He closed his eyes, letting the day's tension drain from his body, ready to surrender to sleep.

But as he began to drift off, a sudden, familiar sensation washed over him—a feeling that he hadn't experienced since being reborn into this life. It was a sharp, eerie feeling, one that gripped him in a way only his past self could understand. It was as though the veil between this world and the one before had thinned, and for a brief moment, the memories of his previous existence flooded back into his mind.

His heart raced. The sensation was undeniable—the same inexplicable, otherworldly pull he had felt at the very moment of his death in his past life. It was a fleeting, yet profound reminder of the strange and mysterious circumstances of his rebirth. Slowly, he opened his eyes only to be met with a dark place full of fog, covering the entirety of the space he could see.

But he was not alone, another silhouette of an individual is also present in the room. But upon closer inspection, Yuvraj Siagu could feel that the person who is in the room with him is not moving, its silhouette was just standing, unmoving. Even the act of breathing was not visible.

Yuvraj Siagu tried to call the silhouette, wanting to start a conversation regarding their current predicament. But as he is about to produce some words, he realizes that he cannot even produce some noise. It was as if his voice were taken, preventing him to utter some words.