Chapter 126

--- 3rd Person POV ---

Although grandeur and riches were never new to Empress Dowager Maria and the others, they all still cannot help it but marvel the elegance and beauty of the throne room. But what really amazes them the most is the privilege that the Imperial House of Shaja fully owns everything inside their palaces, a huge testament on how really, they are the blood of their nation.

This alone made Empress Dowager Maria and the others jealous on how vastly different the Imperial House of Shaja being treated, a treatment that they can only dream on. Ever since arriving in Sooraj. They already felt the love the nation has towards Yuvraj Siagu and their family. The Butuanons love them too much that government officials can be mistreated by the public by just criticizing the monarchy.

Despite how advance and progressive Butuan is in the eyes of Empress Dowager Maria and the others, the people still prefer the monarchy compared to elected officials, a situation that every monarchy in Europe hopes to achieve.

But as Empress Dowager Maria's gaze fell to the floor, she was able to see her reflection making seeing her aging face. This made her brought back to reality and the heavy decision she has to make, a decision that even her shadows cannot escape. Grand Duchess Elizabeth stood firm; her eyes unwavering as she processed the enormity of the decision before them.

Finally, it was Empress Dowager Maria who spoke, her voice resolute but tinged with resignation. "We will consider your terms, Your Highness. We understand the gravity of what you ask. But we also understand that our family's survival depends on securing your support."

Yuvraj Siagu nodded, a look of approval flickering across his face. "I expect nothing less. You may take your time to discuss amongst yourselves, but know this—my offer stands, and it will not wait indefinitely. My patience is limited, and I will not offer a second chance. It is either you survive of end your line."

With that, he turned and made his way toward the throne, his presence still commanding the room even as he moved away. The Romanovs were then escorted by Senior Eunuch Radhesh and Senior Court Lady Mei Ying towards the entrance of the Palace of Sella.

Yet, even after leaving the palace and now standing on the bridge that connects the inner part and outer part of the Imperial compound, they were all still in stunned silence, the future of their family hanging precariously in the balance.

Grand Duke Michael, still reeling from the prince's demands, clenched his fists at his sides. "This is madness," he muttered under his breath, but Empress Dowager Maria's voice stopped him.

"Michael," she said quietly, her tone softer now, "this may be our only chance. We must be pragmatic. If we are to survive, we must accept the reality of the world we live in—and the cost of that survival."

The Grand Duke's shoulders slumped, the weight of their situation settling on him like a heavy cloak. "And what if we cannot pay the price?"

Empress Dowager Maria met his gaze, her expression one of grim resolve. "Then we may not have a future at all."

As the Romanovs stood on the bridge, the still waters beneath mirrored their troubled reflections. The cool wind carried with it the faint sounds of the Butuan imperial court—a stark reminder of the power and grandeur they had just faced. For all their regal bearing, they now felt like petitioners begging for salvation.

Grand Duchess Elizabeth finally broke the silence. "He is not wrong," she said, her voice steady but burdened. "Our family has made grave mistakes, and the empire is now on the edge of ruin. We cannot deny that. But Michael..." She turned to her nephew, her gaze piercing. "We must not allow pride to blind us. Yuvraj Siagu holds cards we do not. If we play this game with skill, we might still emerge stronger."

Michael, visibly bristling, retorted, "And what then? Hand over Siberia? Bow to his whims as if we are his vassals? I cannot—no, will not—be the Romanov who trades away our nation's lifeblood."

Elizabeth sighed deeply, a flicker of exasperation crossing her features. "Your brother's war with Japan has already cost us dearly. Siberia may be our lifeblood, but without action, it will slip from our grasp entirely—taken by revolutionaries or carved up by opportunistic powers. At least with Yuvraj Siagu, we retain a semblance of control."

Empress Dowager Maria, who had been silent during their exchange, finally spoke, her voice carrying the weight of her years. "Michael, I understand your anger. It is natural. But this is not a time for pride or defiance. Our family's survival depends on our ability to adapt. The boy—no, the man—we just faced is not merely an heir of a distant empire. He is a force of nature, with the foresight and ambition that even the greatest Tsars would envy."

She paused, glancing at the towering palace behind them. "He does not need us. That much is clear. But we need him. If we can secure his aid, there may yet be a chance to stabilize Russia, reclaim what we have lost, and ensure that our legacy endures."

Michael's jaw tightened as he looked between his mother and aunt, their words gnawing at his resistance. "And if he takes everything we offer and leaves us with nothing but humiliation?" he challenged, his voice shaking with a mix of anger and despair.

Maria's expression softened, a rare display of maternal vulnerability. "Then we will endure, as Romanovs have always endured. But I believe he is a man of his word. His demands are steep, yes, but they are clear. And if fulfilling them means preserving our dynasty and securing a future for your children, is that not a price worth paying?"

The Grand Duke looked away; his conflicted thoughts etched across his face. Elizabeth placed a gentle hand on his arm. "Michael, sometimes survival demands sacrifice. It is not weakness to make hard choices—it is strength. And we cannot afford to let this opportunity slip through our fingers."

True to his words, Yuvraj Siagu allowed Empress Dowager Maria and the others to think and weight everything. It took them almost a week before they arrived on a conclusion, and with heavy heart, Empress Dowager Maria, Grand Duchess Elizabeth, and Grand Duke Michael once again visited Yuvraj Siagu in the Palace of Sella.

Yuvraj Siagu, anticipating for their arrival, prepared the documents in his father's office, all were already stipulated and typed in detailed. While Minister Ahmadi and Minister Kenji were also present as representatives of the House of Commons while Maharajkumar Sharvil silently seated beside the two minister to represent the House of Lords.

The tension was palpable as Empress Dowager Maria, Grand Duchess Elizabeth, and Grand Duke Michael entered the Palace of Sella's stately office. The grandeur they had seen before still lingered, a stark contrast to the burden of the decision that had brought them here. The rich scent of ink and parchment filled the air as they were greeted by Yuvraj Siagu, seated at the head of the grand table, flanked by Minister Ahmadi, Minister Kenji, and Maharajkumar Sharvil.

"Welcome back," Yuvraj Siagu said with a calm smile that carried both the warmth of hospitality and the chill of unshakable authority. "I trust you have had sufficient time to deliberate."

The Romanovs exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of resignation and determination. Empress Dowager Maria stepped forward, her regal bearing undiminished despite the circumstances. "Your Highness, we have indeed given your terms the consideration they deserve," she began, her voice steady but solemn. "It was not an easy decision, but we understand the stakes—for our family and for Russia."

Yuvraj Siagu gestured to the chair's opposite him. "Please, take your seats. Let us discuss the details."

Once seated, Minister Ahmadi began to unroll the documents, placing them meticulously before the Romanovs. Each page bore the intricate seals of the Butuan Empire, its terms spelled out in unyielding precision. Minister Kenji leaned forward; his expression neutral but watchful, ready to address any objections.

Empress Dowager Maria scanned the documents briefly before speaking. "We accept the terms you have outlined: exclusive trade rights for Butuan over Siberian exports, the cession of Sakhalin and related territories to Butuan, Korea, and Japan, and the recognition of your empire's sovereignty in contested Southeast Asian territories. Furthermore, we acknowledge your stipulation regarding the succession—Grand Duke Michael will be succeeded by Tsarevich Alexei after his death, bypassing any children Grand Duke Michael will have."

Michael's fists clenched, but he remained silent. His pride and anger were visible in the taut lines of his face, yet he knew this moment was not his to command.

Yuvraj Siagu leaned back slightly, his eyes narrowing as he studied their resolve. "I see you have decided wisely, Empress Dowager. But before we proceed to formalize this agreement, let me make one thing abundantly clear: this is not an alliance. It is a transaction—a means to stabilize your family and empire. Should you falter on any of these terms, there will be consequences."

Grand Duchess Elizabeth, sensing the need to maintain diplomacy, spoke. "We understand, Your Highness. And we will honour these terms faithfully. Your support is not merely a lifeline for our dynasty—it is a chance to rebuild and redeem ourselves in the eyes of history."

Yuvraj Siagu nodded, his expression softening ever so slightly. "Very well. Minister Ahmadi, ensure the signatures are in order."

The Romanovs leaned forward, their pens trembling slightly as they signed each document under the watchful eyes of Yuvraj Siagu and his ministers. When it was done, the room seemed to exhale collectively, the weight of the moment pressing heavily on everyone present.

As the final seal was placed, Yuvraj Siagu stood, his presence once again commanding. "It is done. You may now begin to rebuild what was lost, but remember—this opportunity comes with expectations. Do not squander it."

Empress Dowager Maria rose, bowing slightly in a gesture of both gratitude and acknowledgment of his authority. "You have our word, Your Highness. The Romanovs will not forget this."

Maharajkumar Sharvil, after staying silent since the Romanovs arrival finally made a sound, "That is good. And to make this thing work, we want Russia to prolong the war with the Japanese and Korean Empire until the following year."

Confused on Maharajkumar Sharvil's words, Empress Dowager Maria inquired, "Why? I thought we will be acting within this year to overthrow my son. Why must the war be extended by the following year?"

"That is something you must not be concern with," Minister Ahmadi answered while smiling towards Empress Dowager Maria, "What we just want you to do is to prolong the war until the following year and let us do the rest."

The room, already steeped in tension, grew heavier with Maharajkumar Sharvil's sudden demand. The Romanovs exchanged glances; their unease palpable. Empress Dowager Maria, ever composed, turned her questioning gaze toward the young prince.

"This is a curious request," she said, her tone cautious. "Prolonging the war with Japan and Korea would only deepen our empire's suffering. If you truly mean to aid us, why delay the coup?"

Yuvraj Siagu leaned forward, his calm demeanour belying the gravity of his words. "Because timing, Your Majesty, is everything. A war prolonged into the next year would achieve more than an abrupt overthrow of your son ever could. It creates the necessary conditions—political, economic, and social—for the changes we envision. It weakens your adversaries and strengthens the resolve of those who will rally to your cause."

Minister Ahmadi, ever the diplomat, chimed in with a smile that failed to mask his calculating intent. "Your Highness, I assure you, this request is not without reason. Consider it a strategic manoeuvre. While the war rages, it distracts not only your enemies but also those who might oppose your return to power. It ensures their focus remains divided while we consolidate support for your family."

Grand Duke Michael, his frustration boiling over, interjected. "Do you realize what you're asking? Prolonging the war will bleed Russia further—our soldiers, our resources, our people. It will leave us weaker, not stronger."

Sharvil's gaze turned to Michael; his tone unflinching. "Your empire is already weak, Grand Duke. That is why you are here, signing away Eastern Siberia and bowing to our terms. Prolonging the war is not a choice—it is a necessity. Do this, and you will not only secure our financial aid but ensure that the transition of power occurs on terms that favour the Romanovs."

The silence that followed was deafening. Empress Dowager Maria's eyes narrowed, her mind clearly racing as she weighed the implications of this demand. Finally, she spoke, her voice measured but firm. "You ask much of us, Maharajkumar Sharvil. But if this is what it takes to secure your empire's support, then we will find a way to comply."

Sharvil nodded, satisfied. "Good. You are wise to see the bigger picture. Trust that this strategy will serve both our empires well."

Minister Kenji, who had remained silent until now, added a final note. "We will provide guidance and resources to ensure that the war can be prolonged without immediate collapse. Rest assured; your sacrifices now will yield greater rewards in the future."

Not long later, the Romanovs left the palace nether loser nor winner, but as much as they wanted to be the winner, fate has been against them the entire time. As much as Grand Duke Michael wanted to do everything in accordance to his own pace with his mother's support, he came to realization after days contemplation that his power and mother's influence could not do anything against his own brother.

Maharajkumar Sharvil is correct, he would not be bowing to the conditions and demands placed by the Butuan Empire on the table if they were not weak to begin with. This made Grand Duke Michael hated his currently situation, but what can he even do to turn everything around? What he only hopes for is for the war to end and save his family from the possibility of eradication.

Along with them leaving the Palace of Sella, the seed of hatred finally sprouted at the heart and mind of the soon Tsar Michael of Russia. Since the beginning, his attitude towards Yuvraj Siagu and the others remains the same, superiority and disgust viewing the Butuanons with nothing but uncivilized monkeys. Thus, Tsar Michael promises to himself that the moment he takes the helm of being the monarch of Russia, Butuan shall be its number one enemy and promises to retake Eastern Siberia in the future.

In the distance, Yuvraj Siagu watched them leave, his expression unreadable. "Now," he said quietly, turning to the ministers and his uncle, "let us prepare for the next move. The stage is set, and the world will soon bear witness to the unfolding of a new era."

With menacing and meaningful smiles and grins, the office of Yuvraj Siagu's father became busy as the people remaining inside the office were busily discussing everything for the future of the empire. Yet, while this is unfolding, the prime minister was nowhere to be found, a bold statement for the people inside the palace that the Imperial family have officially stop its support towards Prime Minister Aguinaldo.

But what can Prime Minister Aguinaldo even do? He has lost the support of the people, the ministers were divided, his involvement in different scandals have slowly been revealed to the public, and the final nail of them all is the abandonment from the Imperial family. With these unfolding, the only thing he can do is to continue his duty as the prime minister.

And with that, as chaos once again unfold in the regions of Southeast and East Asia, the people once again fasten to hold their ground. In each passing week, the Japanese Empire and the Korean Empire militarizes in an astronomical level, rivalling that of the militarization of the Japanese Empire in World War II.

As the battle continues to rages in the Manchuria region, with both sides gaining and losing manpower, the Qing Dynasty slowly been weakening, it becomes so weak that Yuvraj Siagu predicted that one simple cough and the Dynasty will crumble.

Along with the continuous instability in the region, the Kingdom of Siam have also started increasing its military forces, an action that confuses and worries its neighbour, particularly the British Malaya and the French Indochina.

Without knowledge on the reasoning of the sudden militarization of the Kingdom of Siam, the British Malaya, and the French Indochina government could not help it but just seat and watch. This is because after Butuan establishes its alliance with Korea, Japan, and Siam, all international treaty ports were taken back by their host country as a concern of national security. Leaving foreign nation almost blinded by the happenings within the borders of the alliance.

By this time also, Butuan Empire have fully taken its control in the Island of Taiwan, crushing all resistance and insurgencies in the Island. Under the leadership of Brigadier General Ayaan Mehta, the 2nd Governor-General of the Island of Taiwan. Under his leadership, Taiwan continues to assimilate itself in Butuanon society, slowly eradicating the Chinese influence within the people's language and way of living.

Roads and buildings were constructed form one place to another, having the city of Balangayan; former Taihoku, as its capital. Following strict and organize Butuan rule, the island prospers that it didn't even able to achieve under the Qing and the Japanese rule. With television and radio reaching the island, it became more connected and informed on the happenings in the capital.

A satellite campus of the Riverbanks Imperial Institution was also constructed in the Island to allow its population to pursue education and increase their intelligence. Having Butuanon as its language of communication.

The letter of confirmation from Mery of Teck also arrived in the hands of Yuvraj Siagu, confirming her participation in war against the United States. But along with this is her refusal to surrender the lands in Asia to Butuan, which Yuvraj Siagu expected as who in their right minds would surrender their lands if they have the capacity and capabilities of defending it?

Thus, the informal alliance between Butuan and Mary of Teck started, but Yuvraj Siagu knew that destroying the United States out from its isolationist era would take some time, especially in the case of Britain as Mary of Teck has still no control and influence over the government. But time is what Yuvraj Siagu have for the moment, time that some others have not have the luxury of.

In the middle east, the deal forge by Minister Li and Senior Eunuch Akash bears a fruitful outcome as Imam Yahya and Emir Abdulaziz both decided to agree on the conditions laid by Minister Li and Senior Eunuch Akash. The only condition that Imam Yahya wanted is the seceding of a small portion of coastal land in Yemen shall be given only after they fully gain its independence, which the two agreed on.

Along with this, another 2 thousand Butuan Imperial Army soldiers will also be stationed in Yemen. While another 20-40 Butuanon scientist and engineers were sent as part of the Butuanon Imperial Army, to create a laboratory and study the area.

Emir Abdulaziz on the other hand accepted the trade proposal with Minister Li and Senior Eunuch Akash in exchange of Butuan Empire's support on the Emirate of Riyadh's independence, which the two accepted. As part of the agreement, 2 thousand Butuanon Imperial Army were stationed in the Emirate as independent forces, with a goal providing support and peace within the Emirate. While 40 scientist and engineers were sent as part of the team.

But what confuses and intrigue Imam Yahya and Emir Abdulaziz is the mention of discovered commodities in the area by the Butuan Empire shall be considered under Butuan Empire's control. This confuses and intrigue them the most the entire peninsula is covered in sand and almost no trees growing, the only commodities they know of are fishes and animals that can survive in the dessert.

Yet, despite their confusion and intrigue, the both of them still signed the agreement with blood, an act of eternal biding. This formalizes the status of Yemen and Riyadh as both protectorate of the Butuan Empire.

And since the agreement were made in secret after the right time, no announcement was made to the public. But in secret, covered and smuggled via commercial ships, guns after guns of Butuanon manufactured weapons arrived in Yemen and Riyadh, arming their respective military of weapons that on par with the circulating weapons in the Butuan Empire and its allies.

A small number of Butuanon soldiers also snuck in Yemen and Riyadh in secret, masking their identities to avoid being detected by the British and the Ottomans. Successfully arriving in Yemen and Riyadh, they instantly constructed secret facilities that houses everything they needed. Facilities that will help them continue and finishes their plans in the region, all in the name of Yuvraj Siagu and the Imperial House of Shaja.

But while these things were unfolding the eyes of the people of Butuan stationed in the peninsula, Yemen, Riyadh, the Ottomans, and the British, continues to be in the shadows, unable to see the impending consequences of their ignorance for allowing the sleeping bakunawa to slowly awake.