--- 3rd Person POV ---
--- 8th of September 1904 ---
Maharaja Siagu XV continued his eloquent speech, highlighting the deep-rooted friendship between the Butuan Empire and the Kingdom of Siam and the upcoming union between Yuvraj Siagu and Princess Abbhantripaja. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and anticipation, as attendees listened with gentle smiles, fully engaged in the moment. Among them was Queen Consort Sukhumala Marasri, half-sister of King Rama V, who was notably attentive to Maharaja Siagu's words.
Amidst the respectful silence, a soft, composed, and affectionate voice reached the ears of Maharajkumari Haimi.
"Mama," the voice called, pulling her from her thoughts. She turned her head to find her son, Lord Daksh, Maha Sandar of Siargao, seated beside her. He was dressed in his imperial military uniform, a sight that brought a swell of emotion to Maharajkumari Haimi's heart. Seeing her son in the attire of the imperial navy, she couldn't help but feel a mixture of pride and nostalgia.
From the time Daksh was a small child, Maharajkumari Haimi had known of his admiration for his father, her husband, who was a dedicated naval officer. Daksh had always been drawn to the sea, collecting toy ships and naval soldiers, and staging imaginary battles in which he would command his fleet with all the seriousness of a seasoned officer. Those memories were vivid in her mind—how he would throw a fit if any of his toys were lost or damaged, and how fiercely protective he was of them, even refusing to let her or his elder siblings touch them.
Now, looking at him in his navy uniform, Maharajkumari Haimi felt as if time had flown by in the blink of an eye. Her little boy, once playing with toy ships, was now a man serving in the imperial navy, following in his father's footsteps. She knew the path he had chosen was fraught with challenges and dangers, but for the empire and its people, it was all worth it—as her husband had always said.
"What is it?" Maharajkumari Haimi responded, her voice soft.
"Have you seen Papa?" Daksh asked, his eyes scanning the hall in search of his father. "He should be here already; he told me he would be returning today as well."
Maharajkumari Haimi gently touched her son's hand, her smile tender. She realized then that she hadn't yet told him that his father would not be able to return as planned, occupied with his duties in Japan. She understood how much Daksh missed his father—she felt the same way—but as a military officer, her husband's duty to the empire always came first. It was a reality she had accepted long ago.
Sensing the warmth and understanding in his mother's touch, Daksh instantly knew the answer before she could speak. He saw the unspoken words in her eyes, the soft sorrow tempered by the resilience she had always shown.
"He's not coming back today, is he?" Daksh asked quietly, his voice tinged with disappointment, though he tried to hide it.
Maharajkumari Haimi nodded slightly, her hand still holding his. "He's doing what he must, Daksh. You know how important his work is."
Daksh sighed softly, his gaze dropping for a moment before he looked back up at his mother. "I know, Mama. It's just... I was hoping to see him today."
She squeezed his hand gently. "He misses you, too, Daksh. More than you know. And I'm sure he's proud of you, just as I am."
A small smile formed on Daksh's lips, and he nodded, accepting the situation. He knew his father's absence was a testament to his commitment to the empire—a commitment Daksh had inherited and now bore with the same sense of duty.
"… With the union of my dearest son and Princess Abbhantripaja, Butuan and Siam will once again reach another milestone of its friendship. A friendship that will surely last not just in this lifetime but until the end of time." Maharaja Siagu XV stated with a gentle proud voice before pausing.
At normal glance, a person might not be able to see anything wrong with the Maharaja but upon closer inspection, one can see that Maharaja Siagu XV is having a much harder time breathing and his nails are somewhat yellowish. People present in the hall might not be able to see this and have attributed the frequent pause that Maharaja Siagu XV made as because of how long the speech is.
But Yuvraj Siagu, whom is seating on his father, Maharaja Siagu XV, left side could clearly see and observe his father's condition. Not to mention that even his own mother has been constantly glancing a worried look at his father. Even his own aunt, Maharajkumari Haimi and uncle, Maharajkumar Sharvil have been throwing a worried glance towards his own father.
Clearly something is not right with his father's situation. And Yuvraj Siagu have already some answers to this, which he got from Doctor Rizal few hours ago. The reason for him visiting his previous teacher is not because of wanting an update on his progress on his experiment. The reason for his visit is the suspicion he had over his own father's wellbeing.
Yuvraj Siagu is not satisfied with the reasoning of his parents that his own father was taking a break from his duty due to some minor issues. He knew his own father and he knows how workaholic he is, thus, the sudden handing of duties to him really put Yuvraj Siagu into a suspicion towards his own father's real condition.
And his visit with Doctor Rizal proves that he is indeed correct with his suspicion as this is where he found out that his own father is suffering from cancer. The news almost broke his own world at that time, but good thing he manages to control himself and instead went to the museum first to cool himself. And unexpected, his sunshine arrived and accompanied him for the rest of the time he is in the institution.
But before joining the banquet for tonight, Yuvraj Siagu firstly sent a letter to Madame Currie and her husband, informing them that he wanted them to focus their research on developing their research about cancer cure. He knew that this might be futile as the equipment needed to further advance this research is still unavailable, but he needed to cling to a sliver of hope that his previous teacher might be able to found some cure.
Besides, he manages to bring the U-boats and the aeroplanes into this world in a much earlier timeframe, who can tell that he might also be able to bring the cure to cancer a much earlier time.
Suddenly, while being in deep thoughts, claps revibrated throughout the hall bringing Yuvraj Siagu back to reality. Realizing that his father has already concluded his message and it is now his time to impart his message towards the people in attendance tonight's banquet. As he takes his stand, people in the hall diverted their attention towards him, waiting for him to start talking.
Yuvraj Siagu took a deep breath, steadying himself as he stepped forward to address the assembled guests. The weight of the moment pressed upon him—not just the importance of the speech, but the knowledge of his father's condition, which gnawed at the back of his mind. He couldn't afford to let his emotions show, not now, not in front of all these people.
He began, his voice clear and composed, yet carrying an undercurrent of determination.
"Honored guests, esteemed members of the Butuan Empire, and our cherished friends from the Kingdom of Siam," Yuvraj Siagu started, his gaze sweeping over the hall, briefly pausing on Princess Abbhantripaja, who smiled at him with encouragement. "Tonight, we celebrate not only the enduring friendship between our two great nations but also the union that will bind our futures together even more closely. This union is a testament to the strength of our shared values, our mutual respect, and our unwavering commitment to peace and prosperity."
He paused for a moment, letting the words sink in. The room was silent, all eyes fixed on him.
"As my father, Maharaja Siagu XV, heartfully expressed, the ties between Butuan and Siam have always been strong. But with the upcoming marriage between myself and Princess Abbhantripaja, we are not just honoring our past—we are building a future where our two nations will stand together, stronger and more united than ever before."
Yuvraj Siagu allowed a brief smile, glancing again at Princess Abbhantripaja. Her presence gave him strength, a reminder of what he was fighting for—not just his father's legacy, but a future he believed in.
"My papa and mama has always taught me that leadership is not just about power or authority; it is about responsibility, compassion, and the ability to guide our people through both prosperous times and challenging ones. I stand before you today, not just as the Yuvraj of Butuan, but as a son, a future husband, and a leader who is committed to carrying on those values."
His voice grew firmer as he continued, "In the coming years, we will face many challenges. But I am confident that with the bond between Butuan and Siam, and with the strength of our people, we will overcome any obstacle that stands in our way. Our future is bright, and together, we will continue to forge a path of progress, innovation, and peace."
As he spoke, Yuvraj Siagu's thoughts briefly drifted back to his father. The knowledge of his illness weighed heavily on him, but he pushed it aside, focusing on the task at hand. There would be time to deal with that later—tonight was about the future, about hope.
"I look forward to the day when Princess Abbhantripaja and I can work together, not just as partners in marriage, but as partners in building a brighter tomorrow for both of our nations," he concluded, his voice filled with conviction. "Let us celebrate this union and the future it represents. May the friendship between Butuan and Siam continue to flourish for generations to come."
The room erupted in applause, the sound filling the hall. Yuvraj Siagu stood tall, maintaining his composure as he nodded in acknowledgment. But beneath the surface, his mind was already racing, thinking of what needed to be done, both for his father and for the future he had just pledged to build.
As he returned to his seat, he felt Princess Abbhantripaja's hand gently squeeze his, a silent gesture of support and understanding. He then takes a glance at his father, whom given him a gentle approving smile and a nod while muttering the words, "Good job."
With the banquet at full force, the entire hall was then filled with music and laughter, people trying to have a meaningful and merry conversation with each other. But while this is happening, Yuvraj Siagu, Maharajkumari Mahati, and Maharajkumar Ainesh, all discreetly take glances at their father, wanting to check his wellbeing.
As the night deepens and the banquet came into a conclusion, guests started to depart the hall and proceeded to return to their respective quarters. Crown Prince Vajiravudh along with his wife; Crown Princess Kaahini, and family were escorted to the Atithigraha Palace, just westside of the Imperial compound, where they will be staying during the duration of their stay in Butuan. While Maharajkumar Sharvil and his entire family decided to stay at Suryavarman Palace since rooms were allocated for them as immediate family members of the maharaja.
As night embraces the entire city and the palaces occupied by the royalties, one of rooms in the palace of Sella were still lit by lamps, allowing the people present to see each other. On the room, 3 individuals can be seen talking with each other, all are showing serious expression. Wearing their sonmins that they all have worn during the banquet, one can decern that the 3 have not gone to their respective quarters yet.
Standing on the head of the room, Yuvraj Siagu, the eldest of them all, calmly narrated his talk with Doctor Rizal during his visit at the institution. While Maharajkumari Mahati and Maharajkumar Ainesh were listening seriously, both are seated on the couch placed to face Yuvraj Siagu's current location.
The room is the study room located at the left wing of the palace, with boards and single table, dedicated on nurturing single individual. Books and instruments for scientific interest adorn the entire room, while portraits of the gods and goddess of the ancient religion of Butuanon adorned the upper ceiling of the room, while a large landscape painting of the crucifixion of Christ were hoisted to show its importance over all other portraits.
Listening to Yuvraj Siagu's narration, Maharajkumar Ainesh could not help it but show an expression of irritation and dissatisfaction, which did not escape the attention of Maharajkumari Mahati whom reprimanded her younger brother instantly.
"Seize with that foul expression of yours, Ainesh." Maharajkumari Mahati reprimanded, "I know you are dissatisfied with how the people of this palace have kept that secret unto us. But you also have to understand that they were just following mother and father's wishes."
With a serious look, Maharajkumar Ainesh retorted, "Why are you so calm anyway? Are not worried about papa's condition?"
Maharajkumari Mahati fully understand her younger brother's dissatisfaction, even her felt the same after hearing everything from her older brother. But she also understands that her mother did those things to protect them and not be distracted. And even if she knew this cancer of her father, she cannot even do a thing for she is not a doctor nor have the capacity to heal her own father.
Thus, instead of worrying too much and stressing herself, Maharajkumari Mahati instead put her trust to Doctor Rizal, the imperial doctor, into finding the cure for their father's illness.
With deep breath, Maharajkumari Mahati replied, "I am worried. But what does my worries can do to improve papa's condition? I am not a doctor nor an individual capable of turning everything in our favour."
The tension in the room was palpable as the three siblings grappled with the gravity of their father's condition. Maharajkumar Ainesh's frustration was evident, his emotions barely contained as he listened to his sister's calm reasoning. Yuvraj Siagu remained composed, watching the exchange between his younger siblings, understanding both their perspectives.
After Maharajkumari Mahati's response, the room fell into a heavy silence, each of them lost in their thoughts. They were all deeply concerned, but as Maharajkumari Mahati had pointed out, there was little they could do besides supporting each other and trusting in the efforts of those who could help.
Finally, Yuvraj Siagu broke the silence. "Mahati is right," he said softly, yet firmly. "We must focus on what we can do. Ainesh, I understand your frustration—believe me, I do—but anger won't change anything. We need to be strong for Papa and for each other."
Maharajkumar Ainesh looked down, his hands clenched into fists. "I know," he muttered, his voice heavy with resignation. "I just... I hate feeling so powerless."
"We all do," Yuvraj Siagu replied, his voice carrying the weight of his own burdens. "But we must channel that energy into something constructive. We're a family, and right now, Papa needs us to be united and strong."
Maharajkumari Mahati nodded in agreement, reaching out to gently place a hand on Ainesh's arm. "We're all in this together," she said softly. "And we'll get through it together."
A smile appears on Yuvraj Siagu's face after seeing the gesture made by his younger sister in consoling their younger brother. While satisfaction is what he is feeling, realizing how much his younger sister, whom he distinctly remembers were just seeking his approval has now grown to a fine young woman, worthy of her soon title as the empress of Korea.
Sensing the stare of her older brother, Maharajkumari Mahati decided to confront her brother, inquiring about the sudden smile.
"What is with that smile of yours, Kuya Siagu?" Maharajkumari Mahati inquired.
Caught off-guard, Yuvraj Siagu displayed an awkward smile before shaking his head after being cornered. Still being thrown with inquiring look from Maharajkumari Mahati and now being added with Maharajkumar Ainesh whom even teasingly called his action as weird, causing his younger sister to laugh.
Wanting to divert the attention, Yuvraj Siagu decided to change the topic, seeing that the topic regarding their papa's situation have now concluded.
"Yeong have been persisting me for weeks already," Yuvraj Siagu blurted out making Maharajkumari Mahati focus on him.
"Why?" Maharajkumari Mahati inquired confusedly, "We have always been communicating with each other. What might have causes him to pester you for weeks?"
"I take my guess that he might only be communicating to Kuya Siagu because he is shy on convincing you to return to Hanseong." Maharajkumar Ainesh teasingly interjected while throwing a teasing smile towards his older sister causing Yuvraj Siagu to laugh gently.
Yuvraj Siagu knew that his sister's fiancé, the crown prince of Korea, Crown Prince Yeong love his sister truthfully and have always seeks for the betterment of his younger sister. Since living in Sooraj after the rebellion made by King Sunjong, Yuvraj Siagu have spent an unaccountable time with the then just Prince Yeong, making him fully understood the character and inner feeling of Crown Prince Yeong himself.
Not to mention that he himself have manages to influence Yeong to grow in accordance with his bidding. Which is showing a good result in Yuvraj Siagu's opinion as for the past 2 years of being away from him, he has heard how Crown Prince Yeong is doing his best in alleviating the living condition of his people. Besides, his younger sister is also informing him on the actions made by Crown Prince Yeong while in Hanseong.
Thus, Yuvraj Siagu is confident that despite the Korean society still a bit behind of the Butuanon and Siamese society. He is confident that his younger sister will not be treated unfairly by the others, with how much Crown Prince Yeong favored her most.
"I told him that I will be returning after Kuya Siagu's wedding, as per original plan" Maharajkumari Matahi replied with a concern look, "but with the recent situation with papa, I might once again delay my return in Hanseong."
"Are you insane?" Maharajkumar Ainesh blurted in disbelief, "you just recently lecture me about sticking on our duty while giving our trust towards the doctor. But now what? You are the one whom wanted to go against this and instead stay here because of papa? Aren't it quite disgusting that you are eating your own self with that?"
Maharajkumari Mahati's face flushed slightly at her younger brother's blunt remark. She opened her mouth to respond but hesitated, realizing that Ainesh had a point. She had just spoken about the importance of duty and trusting in the imperial doctor, yet here she was, considering delaying her return to Hanseong because of their father's condition.
Yuvraj Siagu, sensing the tension between his siblings, stepped in to mediate. "Ainesh, let's not be too harsh. Mahati is only concerned for Papa, as we all are. It's natural for her to want to stay close during this time."
Mahati looked at her older brother, grateful for his support but still feeling conflicted. "I know I should follow through with my plans, and I do trust Doctor Rizal… but the thought of leaving now, with everything so uncertain, it just feels wrong."
Yuvraj Siagu nodded understandingly. "I understand your dilemma, Mahati. But remember, your duty towards your fiancé is also a duty to our family. Crown Prince Yeong is seeking your presence, not because he is concern with you, and by fulfilling your responsibilities there, you are also honoring our father's wishes. He would want you to be strong and continue with your commitments." With a stern voice and commanding presence, he reminded his younger sister.
"We are not like other individuals in this empire, Mahati. And I know that you and Ainesh knew about this. We are members of the imperial house of Shaja, the oldest and the most powerful family not just in this country but also in this region." Yuvraj Siagu firmly reminded them, "Our personal emotion, affection, bidding, and wants are things that should not be allowed to be seen in public. We are one closest to God as the defender of the Aylashanism faith.
As mother have always reminded us, personal emotion that will conflict with our duty and responsibilities are to be cage and be hidden. No one wants their monarch to be a tyrant or emotionless, but we must understand that our roles demand sacrifice. We have to balance our personal feelings with the responsibilities we carry, especially in times like these."
With this, Maharajkumari Mahati remains in silence while listening to her older brother's words. Even Maharajkumar Ainesh decided to listen as he himself knew that he also has some short comings of being a member of the house of Shaja.
Maharajkumar Ainesh, who had been quietly listening, nodded in agreement. "Kuya's right, Ate Mahati. We all have our roles to play, and yours is in Hanseong, with Crown Prince Yeong. Papa would want you to fulfil your duty, just as he always has."
Maharajkumari Mahati looked at both her brothers, feeling the weight of their words. "Thank you, Ainesh," she then turns her attention to her older brother, "Thank you also, Kuya Siagu."
Smile appears on Yuvraj Siagu's face hearing his younger sister's words as everything is once again back in place. He knew that there are some ministers in Hanseong that are still against the marriage of his younger sister and Crown Prince Yeong. Especially that polygamy is still allowed in the family of Yi, unlike in Butuan that poly have been labeled as illegal.
Thus, Yuvraj Siagu knew that the more his younger sister spent in Sooraj the more her standing in the court of Korea will dwindle. And he also knew that in few months after the marriage of his younger sister and Yeong, the royal court of Korea will surely take another noble wife to be one of the concubines of Yoeng. Because of this, his sister must really return to Korea after attending his marriage.
But Yuvraj Siagu also know that during the time today until the day his sister departs for Korea, Crown Prince Yeong would surely be pressured to take another wife. Thus, instead of having Crown Prince Yeong wait in Hanseong. Yuvraj Siagu could just invite Crown Prince Yeong in advance to limit the influence the ministers have towards Crown Prince Yeong.
Hence, before the conversation between siblings continues to another topic, Yuvraj Siagu decided to take a note on his mind the plan he needed to make to ensure Crown Prince Yeong be in Sooraj next week. And his sister, Maharajkumari Mahati completely oblivious on this matter.
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Hi everyone.
This will be my last update for the year and my next update will be 2 weeks from now, this is because I am going to enjoy my holiday and have some rest. I am also been busy with finding job and processing my passport. But yeah, see you all again next 2 weeks!
Happy Holidays and Thank you for the support this 2024!