Chapter 407: Sultan's Decision
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Johor, a large state in Malaya, covers about 20,000 square kilometers. Positioned between Malacca and Singapore, Johor is predominantly flat with numerous rivers flowing through it, making it one of the most suitable regions for agriculture in Malaya. The state boasts rubber plantations, spice gardens, tobacco farms, palm oil plantations, and rich forest resources.
**Johor Bahru** is the capital of Johor, located at the southern tip of the state, separated from Singapore by a narrow strait. Historically, Singapore was once part of Johor.
Currently, Huang Henian, his son, and several Huang family directors are imprisoned in Xinshan City, specifically in Xinshan City Prison. The prison conditions are dire, with no beds and only the slate floor for seating. Huang Linghui, Huang Henian's son, is gravely ill with a high fever.
Huang Linghui, a skilled martial artist known for his bravery in conflicts with Malays, was injured during a violent clash. Despite the seriousness of his injuries, he was imprisoned before receiving medical treatment. The infection from his wound has caused a severe fever that has lasted for two days.
Huang Henian, desperate for medical help for his son, demands assistance from a Malay official. The official, with a sharp face, demands a signed agreement for the Huang family's properties in Johor in exchange for treatment.
The agreement offers a meager sum of 10,000 pounds for the Huang family's extensive landholdings, rubber plantations, and processing plants, a stark contrast to their actual worth of several million dollars. The Huang family's three-generation legacy is being stripped away, and despite Huang Henian's resistance, the officials are using his son's illness as leverage.
With his son's life in jeopardy, Huang Henian reluctantly agrees to sign the agreement, surrendering the family's assets. The sharp-faced official takes the signed document but cruelly delays their release, adding to Huang Henian's anguish.
The Sultan of Johor, Ismail, in his forties and the current ruler, is pleased with the acquisition of the Huang family's properties. He instructs his officials to take over the estates and businesses but decides to keep the Huang family imprisoned for at least a year. This ensures that they cannot pose any future threat or be of use to anyone else.
Meanwhile, in Singapore, Maha, Sultan Ismail's younger brother, is forcibly brought to a small manor. He is blindfolded, handcuffed, and brought before several foreign operatives. Maha, fearful and trembling, is informed that he might have a chance to become the Sultan.
Despite his position as Ismail's younger brother, Maha had always been in the shadow of his elder sibling. His frustrations are heightened by the prospect of remaining a mere second-in-command while Ismail enjoys the throne and substantial wealth. The foreign operatives offer him a chance to become Sultan, but they demand half of Johor's assets in return for their support.
Initially shocked by the demand, Maha is quickly reminded that without their help, he will remain powerless. The promise of half of Johor's assets and the potential to become Sultan outweigh the risk of giving away such a large portion. Maha reluctantly agrees, understanding the harsh reality of his situation.
As he returns to his home, Maha reflects on the opportunity and the price he must pay. The prospect of becoming Sultan, despite the high cost, excites him. He raises a glass of wine in celebration, ready to seize the chance that has been presented to him.
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