The excitement of uncovering the missing funds was short-lived. As November approached, Cahaya prepared for its annual National Day celebrations a grand affair showcasing the country's culture, achievements, and, this year, its bizarre leadership. For Roy, this was another golden opportunity to bask in the public's adoration.
Unfortunately, the festivities were about to become the nation's biggest embarrassment yet.
The Grand Idea
"Sir, National Day is coming up," Aziz said during their morning briefing. "It's a chance to project strength and unity, especially after the whole… budget fiasco."
Roy, who was flipping through a catalog of custom suits, barely looked up. "Oh, you mean the fireworks and parade thing? Easy. Just do what you did last year."
Aziz cleared his throat. "Actually, sir, the public expects something more… unique this year. Especially since you're the new leader."
Roy perked up. "Unique, huh? Alright, leave it to me."
Aziz hesitated. "Leave what to you?"
"The theme!" Roy declared. "This year, we'll make it unforgettable. I've got a vision."
Aziz's eyes narrowed. "Sir, I don't like where this is going."
The Theme Unveiled
A week later, Roy held a press conference to announce the official National Day theme. The nation's media gathered, eager to hear what the Prime Minister had in store.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Roy began, beaming with confidence. "This year's National Day theme is…" He paused for dramatic effect. "Cahaya: The Land of Surprises!"
Aziz, standing behind him, looked like he might pass out.
The reporters exchanged puzzled glances. One brave journalist raised a hand. "Prime Minister, could you elaborate on what that means?"
"Of course!" Roy said, gesturing wildly. "It means our country is full of surprises! Like how we found the missing budget money! Or how our fried chicken is better than Ultima's!"
Aziz buried his face in his hands.
"But wait, there's more," Roy continued. "The main event will be a spectacular parade featuring… me!"
The crowd erupted into confused murmurs.
Parade Preparations
Over the next few weeks, Roy took over every aspect of the parade planning. He insisted on leading the main float a giant, garishly decorated replica of Cahaya's famous durian monument, complete with animatronic spikes that occasionally sprayed confetti.
Pak Din was put in charge of organizing a "security march," where soldiers would perform choreographed routines with brooms instead of rifles to symbolize "cleaning up corruption."
Mak Siti suggested a vegetable sculpture competition, which Roy enthusiastically approved. He personally commissioned a life-sized replica of himself made entirely out of cucumbers.
Cikgu Suraya proposed an educational skit about Cahaya's history. Roy rewrote it to include himself as the "hero of all time," battling an evil dragon made of tax forms.
The Big Day
Finally, National Day arrived. The streets were packed with spectators, eagerly awaiting the festivities. Cameras from every news channel were trained on the main stage, where Roy was preparing for his grand entrance.
Aziz stood backstage, clutching his clipboard. "Sir, please, just follow the schedule. No improvising."
"Relax, Aziz," Roy said, adjusting his golden cape. "I've got this."
The parade kicked off with marching bands, cultural dances, and the infamous broom-wielding soldiers. Despite the bizarre theme, the crowd seemed to enjoy the spectacle.
Then came the grand float.
The Float Fiasco
Roy climbed aboard the durian float, waving enthusiastically as it rolled down the main boulevard. The animatronic spikes glistened in the sunlight, and confetti rained down on the cheering crowd.
But as the float reached the center of the stage, something went horribly wrong.
One of the animatronic spikes jammed, spraying confetti directly into the electrical panel. Sparks flew, and the entire float began to smoke.
"Uh… is that part of the show?" Roy asked, looking around nervously.
Aziz, watching from the sidelines, shouted, "Get off the float, sir!"
Before Roy could react, the float erupted in a shower of sparks, setting the confetti on fire. The crowd gasped as the durian monument began to collapse in slow motion, sending Roy tumbling into the cucumber sculpture.
The Aftermath
The parade came to a screeching halt as firefighters rushed to the scene. Roy emerged from the wreckage covered in cucumber chunks, waving sheepishly at the stunned crowd.
"Don't worry, folks!" he shouted. "Just another surprise from the Land of Surprises!"
Aziz buried his face in his hands for what felt like the hundredth time that month.
The Public's Reaction
Despite the chaos, the public response was… surprisingly positive. Social media exploded with memes of Roy's tumble, dubbing him "The Cucumber King." The phrase "Land of Surprises" trended for weeks.
Incredibly, Roy's approval ratings went up again.
Back at the Office
The next day, Roy sat in his office, nursing a bruised ego and a bowl of instant noodles.
"Well, that could've gone worse," he said, slurping noisily.
Aziz glared at him. "Sir, you turned a national celebration into a circus!"
"And the people loved it," Roy replied, grinning. "I told you, Aziz—this is how I roll."
Aziz shook his head. "One day, this country is going to realize you're a walking disaster."
"Maybe," Roy said, leaning back in his chair. "But until then, let's keep surprising them!"
End of Chapter 7