Chapter 121

--- 3rd Person POV ---

--- 19th October 1904 ---

Moon shines brightly as it hangs in the sky, illuminating the entire Sooraj taken by the people as an omen of good luck. It has been two already since the wedding and the banquet to celebrate Yuvraj Siagu and Princess Abbhantripaja's wedding. Yet, people were still in jubilation as news were still being reported about it using the giant television. Not to mention the foods that were distributed to the people within the capital and towards the poor, which further boosted the event's popularity.

Yuvraj Siagu, cannot sleep with everything that just happened decided to take a walk at the Imperial compound. Wanting to be alone at the moment, Yuvraj Siagu decided to leave his courtiers behind not worrying for his safety as the compound itself were secured already.

Illuminated by the electric lamps, the entire compound was as lit as it can be, allowing its inhabitants and workers to see clearly what is happening on the ground. Observing the towering palaces and well-kept plants and waterways, Yuvraj Siagu could not help it but feel a sense of pride and content, seeing how vastly different his home is compared to what it used to be.

With his contribution in the shadows, Butuan progressed in an astronomical level, rivalling that of the United States in the mid-20th Century. With the invention of radio, telephone, new guns, U-boats, aeroplanes, and television among others, Butuan has become the invention hub of the entire world. Even society itself progress that woman have slowly been gaining its rights, a movement that Yuvraj Siagu has no plans of ever stopping.

Since his involvement with the liberation of Joseon and the annexation of Taiwan, Yuvraj Siagu have already set his eyes on bringing Butuan as the ruling nation of this world. Who cares about the world becoming unfamiliar to him, with his knowledge from the future and the support from the people and his allied nation, not even the current United States could threaten him.

And with him being appointed as adhipālaka for the next 5 years, he now basically controls the government and its military. As basing on the report being submitted by Senior Court Eunuch Akas Sundar, whom he has task to be his shadow investigator. 60% of the current members of the Parliament were loyal towards the crown while the remaining 40% were either neutral, republican, or downright planning for a coup, especially those who are members of the House of Lords.

The military on the other hand is a different question as due to the support and connection made by his family towards the military, its loyalty was unquestionably towards the crown. Which was demonstrated to Yuvraj Siagu himself during his tour to different military academies and facilities for the past years. What is even ironic is that the support of the military towards the government have already dwindled.

This was due to the unfavourable stand of Prime Minister Aguinaldo towards the military. The military might not want to tip its finger on the messy politics of the Palace of Sannor but with how its current prime minister wanted to abandoned the country's traditional ally and seek on coating favour with the United State and its allies disgusted the higherups of the military. Which what Yuvraj Siagu wanted as the military itself will be one of his greatest weapons to make his plan successful.

Yuvraj Siagu have already sent a warning before to Prime Minister Aguinaldo on abandoning his goal of overthrowing the monarchy and instead just focus on his task on being a good prime minister. Yet, as much as Yuvraj Siagu believes that this world's Aguinaldo would be different from his previous one, he was mistaken as the man itself would grab anything just to make his goal come true. Which Yuvraj Siagu admires and commended in secret, but Aguinaldo's ambition is weak and fragile, not even comparable to what he was dreaming on achieving.

Thus, for the past months, Yuvraj Siagu and the entire imperial family with the approval of his father maharaja decided to distance itself from Prime Minister Aguinaldo's government. A clear sign of the imperial family's disapproval to Prime Minister Aguinaldo's policy as the man have consistently been favouring the United States openly for the past years.

Which was a huge issue for the government as it undermines their legitimacy of governing the empire. Since the retaking of the island of Taiwan and the number of lives lost during the war, funds embezzled by ministers, and reports of scandals that each minister under Prime Minister Aguinaldo, the government have slowly lost the support of the general public.

With people demanding each day of the resignation of Prime Minister Aguinaldo, their support slowly vanishes. Yuvraj Siagu knew that Aguinaldo's current reappointment to his position is not because of his popularity but because of his supporters still clinging to their power. Even the liberals have entered a secret agreement with Aguinaldo to support his appointment as prime minister in exchange will be the chance of bringing the monarchy into total abolishment, which the liberal party agreed to.

Yet, despite being already in office as the prime minister. Aguinaldo and the parliament continue to loss support from the people. Today's attendance of Aguinaldo and his people to his wedding were just a stunt to boost their legitimacy, which Yuvraj Siagu never mind as his father still needed Aguinaldo in office. And it is still too early for Yuvraj Siagu to fully take the helm as the time is not yet ripe.

But what really irritated Yuvraj Siagu for the past months are the members of the House of Lords. Hereditary nobles, life nobles, and appointed officials have consistently been meddling with the works of the Ministry of Imperial Palace. Encroaching on every inch of the palace ways, wanting to take helm.

Yuvraj Siagu knew that this is because the nobles of the House of Lords have fully lost its control to the Imperial Family after the abolition of the Imperial Clan Council in 1902. It was decreed by his father maharaja in response to the action made by the council against his younger sister, Maharajkumari Mahati, and her union with Crown Prince Yeong.

The abolition also signals the end of years of influence the cadet clans have towards the main branch of the family. This also started Yuvraj Siagu's secret investigation of all activities of the cadet clans since the time of their respective founding. And since 1902 until now, the investigation is still ongoing but Yuvraj Siagu have already gotten some information that will bring those unruly cadet clans to nothingness but poverty.

One of the things that Yuvraj Siagu really hated the most is corruption, basing on his experience back in his previous life. Corruption have brought nothing but destruction and suffering to his countrymen. He himself won't claim that he is a guilt-free individual but that doesn't mean also that he will do nothing with issues he thinks can only bring nothing good to his people.

Thus, as long as he is the one controlling the helm of the palace and soon the government, corruption will not be permitted on his watch. That is why reforms within the government is really needed to tighten its fight against corruption. Butuan is not a perfect country, and that is reality despite how much Yuvraj Siagu tries to cover it up with advancement, but that doesn't mean also that it will just stay like that.

But as Yuvraj Siagu continues with his night stroll and sightseeing, he suddenly made a halt at Minbury Palace, taking a glance at the building that hosted countless crowing ceremony of monarchs of the empire. A sense of grandeur and ancientness is what he is feeling right now as he slowly made his way towards the palace.

With no guards guarding the Minbury Palace, Yuvraj Siagu easily enters the building only to be welcomed by a grandeur that 16th Century European explorers will surely salivate nonstop out of greed due to how the interior of the building is being decorated on. Golds and precious gems decorated the walls and ornamentals present within the confines of the palace.

From antiques golden artifacts that dated back during the clan era to the kapilans used by monarchs of the Rajahnate and its princes. Even shields were present within the hallways of the palace, further giving the intimidation of authority of the family owning the artifacts.

For years and plenty of generations, these artifacts have been under the custodial of the Imperial Family of Shaja, reminding the future generations of the Shaja family of how grand and intimidating their family history are. Although the core of these artifacts, like the crowns and other important artifacts, were housed at the Imperial Palace of Sella.

But what really is the highlight of the palace is its two separated rooms that houses different coronation thrones, both of which symbolizes the coronation of the maharaja in different realms. The current room that Yuvraj Siagu is standing and surveying is the room for earthly coronation while the room attached to this room is for divine coronation.

With only the coronated monarch and the archbishops of the Aylashan faith were allowed to enter the room. Even Yuvraj Siagu himself doesn't know what lies ahead of the room as it is always being locked and only the members of the Order of Butuan were allowed to enter in daily basis for maintenance and cleaning of the entire room. The room itself is too sacred that its entrance was only accessible to his father and the room's custodian.

With a deep and contemplating sigh, Yuvraj Siagu stroll the entire room, savouring artifacts that are present within the confines of the giant room. With his bakyâ, the sound of his steps resounded on the halls of the room, echoing to each corner, saying that an individual is present within its walls.

(A/N: Bakyâ are wooden clogs that were once the most commonly used footwear in the Philippines before the introduction of rubber sandals. This footwear is made from local light wood like santol and laniti.

In this story, Bakyâ are the traditional footwear/slippers of the Butuanons. Early records shows that this type of footwear has been around even before the establishment of the Rajahnate, completely tracing its usage during the clan era of the Butuanons.)

But as Yuvraj Siagu leisurely scans every artifact present in the room, he suddenly came into a halt after feeling like someone is standing behind him. Yet, despite this sudden feeling, he never feels any discomfort and fear. Instead, Yuvraj Siagu calmly turn his back to take glance in hope of confirming his sudden feeling.

This made him see clearly that there is indeed an individual standing behind him. With a body and a height of a woman in her mid-30s, obviously of European descent. The shadow produces and aura of dominance and intimidation, an aura that will make people bow down in respect. Yet, despite feeling this aura, Yuvraj Siagu remains indifference and instead grin while looking at the shadow.

Since receiving the dream back when he was still in his early teens, Yuvraj Siagu have started to speculate that someone was sent by God in this world, much like in his situation. Yet, he was at first unaware of the identity of the woman in his dreams not until few years ago when he suddenly receives a letter from the figure in his dream.

A letter that did not just provided him a hint of the person's identity but have also make it clear that the person's stand is far different than his, which Yuvraj Siagu actually hopes for. Since arriving in this world, everything has consistently been under his control and making it a bit more boring for him. And with the arrival of this variant, it opened a door of challenge for Yuvraj Siagu himself. A challenge that he knew will surely make everything more exciting for him.

"You are overstepping everything once again," the woman said seriously, completely breaking the silence that covers the situation.

A smirk and a mocking stare, Yuvraj Siagu replied, "And? Do you really think your words can threaten me… second beloved individual by the Lord?" He paused before correcting himself in a mocking tone, "Oh. My bad… I think I should not be calling you that as it is disrespectful. I should have addressed you in your proper name, Mary, Princess of Wales."

This did not just make the shadow stiffed but despite wearing a mask, Yuvraj Siagu can still see the discomfort and panic written all-over the face of the person. He could even see a sudden shaking on the shadow's lower body after Yuvraj Siagu mentioned the person's identity.

It was few years ago that after receiving the letter of warning, Yuvraj Siagu decided to tasked Senior Eunuch Tạ Quang and Senior Court Lady Puteri Azura to search for the identity of the sender. Which took both courtiers 2 years to finally knew on who the sender was, and to much of Yuvraj Siagu's amusement, it was the future Queen Mary of the United Kingdom herself.

Yet, despite knowing the identity, Yuvraj Siagu did not directly confronts Mary of Teck instantly but instead allowed her to continue thinking that he is still unaware of her identity. With each year pass, Yuvraj Siagu slowly uncovers everything that is being kept by Mary of Teck herself.

But what really amazes him is the silence and the avoidance to change anything in this world's course of events. Which he fully understood as her soon country to rule as head of state is already the strongest out of all nation. Even the threat of sudden appearance of aeroplanes weren't able to move her due to her confidence in her nation's capability.

This was what Yuvraj Siagu exploited by secretly and openly changing everything, making the world as unrecognizable as it can be. The death of Rasputin and the loss of Hawai'i in the hands of the United State might not have really moved Mary of Teck but Yuvraj Siagu knew that the sudden involvement of Korea and the surprise exposure of Qing to Russo-Japanese War made surely made a huge impact on Mary, Princess of Wales's calmness.

Mary of Teck or Mary of Teck had thought her receiving bits of information from the coming world wars would be her greatest challenge, but that assumption was soon overshadowed by the discovery of an anomaly from the bits of information she holds. She can still remember that it was back in march of 1898 that she was transported to an unfamiliar place with nothing to be seen but pure darkness accompanied by a silhouette of a child age 10-12 years old.

Mary could remember that she wanted to struck a conversation with the silhouette only to fail as a surge of information regarding the coming world wars flooded her memories, causing her to shout in panic after suddenly waking up due to fear and horror. It was her husband and few palace servants at that time comforted her as she was basically crying in horror after seeing sea of lifeless bodies stack from one another. She was also given a warning that without strengthening her country, Britain will be nothing but a shadow of its power.

For years, Mary had carefully observed and made a move from the shadows, trying to make sense on the things she just saw. But after months of receiving the information, she realizes that one factor from her memory didn't exist and might be the cause of the warning, the Empire of Butuan and the most peculiar individual in the empire its crown prince, Siagu Alexie Shaja.

She had sent the letter to Yuvraj Siagu as a calculated risk, hoping to gauge his understanding and intentions. Yet now, standing face-to-face with him in Sooraj, she realized that her subtle moves had been outpaced by the cunning and intellect of this boy-turned-strategist.

Her discomfort was palpable as she tried to maintain composure. "You are... far sharper than I anticipated, Yuvraj Siagu," Mary finally said, her voice steady despite her visible unease. She removed her mask, revealing a face that exuded grace and authority, though it was now shadowed by apprehension. "I did not expect our paths to cross so soon, nor under such direct circumstances."

Yuvraj Siagu smiled faintly, his youthful features belying the wisdom in his eyes. "Your visit to Sooraj, though carefully veiled, was an inevitability. I imagine the developments in Korea and the Qing's involvement with Russia prompted your journey… or was it perhaps something more personal?"

Mary's lips tightened. She had underestimated him again. "Both," she admitted. "The alliances being forged in this part of the world and the shifting power dynamics concern not just Britain but the future of the world order. I came to see for myself the mind behind these changes—an extraordinary mind for one so young. So, tell me… where are you from?"

Yuvraj Siagu's smile widened slightly, his expression equal parts amused and intrigued. "Ah, so we're dispensing with the pretense, are we? Very well. Let us not waste time with false pleasantries." He stepped closer, his hands clasped behind his back, his voice calm but layered with meaning. "I am from an era where the sun did set on the British Empire—a time when the world realized that empires, no matter how grand, are not immortal… and you, let me guess have not from any other world or timeline but have instead received only information on the coming wars."

Mary of Teck's eyes narrowed confirming the information she has received and the danger that Butuan and the person in front of her carries. "I do…"

"Hahaha!" Yuvraj Siagu laughs in delight at Mary of Teck's words, "It appears to be that the God of this world have finally noticed my disinterest in following this world's timeline… but I pity as my God have blessed me more."

"What do you mean." Mary of Teck confusedly inquired.

Yuvraj Siagu's laughter echoed through the grand hall, an eerie contrast to the tension between him and Mary of Teck. His expression turned sharp, and his voice dropped into a tone that carried a weight far beyond his years. "What I mean, Princess, is that the tapestry of this world's destiny is not woven by the hands of one god, nor does it bow to the ambitions of any mortal. My existence—my knowledge—everything is made in hopes that this world will not face the same ending as my world. That is my mission to take." Siagu mumbles his last sentence with glee and reverence.

Mary's face remained composed, though her mind raced to decipher the meaning behind his cryptic words. She was no stranger to subtle threats, but this felt different. It was as if Siagu was not merely threatening her or her empire but challenging the very fabric of her reality.

"Your confidence is… remarkable," Mary finally said, her voice steady, though her hands tightened at her sides. "But surely you understand that knowledge alone does not equate to power. Britain remains unmatched in its reach and strength. Whatever plans you have—"

"Plans?" Yuvraj Siagu interrupted, his tone suddenly mocking. "Oh, Princess, you assume I'm merely scheming. No. I'm remaking. While your empire clings to its illusions of permanence, I am building something far greater. The foundations are already laid, and every move you make only strengthens my resolve."

Mary took a step forward, her gaze unwavering. "And what is it you seek to build, Siagu? A rival empire? A world where Butuan reigns supreme? Surely even you know the folly of overreach."

Yuvraj Siagu tilted his head, his expression turning thoughtful. "Is your nation can really be considered a rival?" mockingly paused while throwing a taunting look at Mary, "Few years ago, before I have taken the steps of intervening with this world's timeline, Britain is indeed my rival in world conquest. With your massive empire and dominance on the sea, even Germany, France, and Russia will surely think twice before engaging in battle."

Yuvraj Siagu paused for a bit, letting Mary of Teck digest every word he has said. Which is showing its effect as Mary of Teck deeply ponders on the words uttered by Yuvraj Siagu, trying to maneuver each possible outcome on their conversation.

"But everything changes now that Butuan have taken its spotlight," Yuvraj Siagu continues confidently, "We have silently cultivated our economy through the years, earning us the spot for the 2nd biggest economy in world. Now, it is time for us to take our stop as one of the leaders of this world. Testament to this are those aeroplanes and guns that surpass even the brightest of the people today's invention."

Mary's composure remained intact, but her mind raced to process Yuvraj Siagu's bold declaration. She knew well the significance of what he claimed: the meteoric rise of Butuan was no accident, but a calculated ascension orchestrated by a force far beyond its time. His confidence was unnerving, his words delivered with the precision of a seasoned tactician.

"You speak as though your actions alone have reshaped the world," Mary finally replied, her voice calm but firm. "But tell me, Yuvraj, do you truly believe that technology and economy alone will secure your place as a leader of this world? Britain's strength lies not only in its empire but in the unwavering unity of its people. Can Butuan claim the same?"

Yuvraj Siagu's smirk deepened. "Unity, you say? Ah, yes—the unity of colonies held together by fear and force. The kind of unity that crumbles when the oppressed begin to rise. Tell me, Princess, how long can your empire endure when the voices of rebellion grow louder? India, Ireland, Africa—how many fires must you extinguish before your empire burns itself out?"

Mary's eyes narrowed, a flicker of anger crossing her otherwise composed face. "They might have gained complete independence from Britain before, but that was prior to me receiving the vision from the future—"

"Hypocrisy!" Yuvraj Siagu interjected instantly, "You came here warning me on my action that will change the future path this world will take. Hinting the possibility of having far more devastating war of the age, far greater than the visions you have received. Yet, here you are using the same information to tighten its grip to those colonies seeking independence?! Hahaha! I salute you for your hypocrisy, Mary of Teck!"

Mary of Teck's composure momentarily faltered, her lips pressing into a thin line as Yuvraj Siagu's words struck a nerve. She prided herself on her strategic mind and foresight, but being called a hypocrite by the young crown prince—a boy wielding intellect sharper than the finest blade—left her momentarily at a loss.

"You speak as if rebellion is a certainty," Mary finally retorted, her voice edged with steel. "But it is my duty to protect the integrity of the British Empire. To adapt, to evolve, and to ensure its survival. If that means using the knowledge granted to me, then so be it."

Yuvraj Siagu laughed softly, shaking his head. "Then why come here and lecture me on my plans to change the future? If you are going to use the information given by God to you to tighten your nation's hold on these colonies? Then why hinder me on changing the path Asia will take?"

With a cold voice he continues, "If it is the civilians, you are worried, don't even bother. We both know that deaths are necessary in wars, while wars are necessary to produce civilization that overcomes the later one. What I am doing will not just be benefiting Butuan but the entire world, what you have to do instead is to thank and assist me on this matter."

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This will be my last update that I will be doing two chapters per week. Next week, I will be resuming to the usual one chapter per week. Hope you all going to understand. Thank you!

Don't forget to drop your review and comments, everyone!