Chapter 111

--- 3rd Person POV ---

--- 8th of September 1904 ---

But despite how much Yuvraj Siagu ponder on this matter, the Russian Empire is still bound for its doom. What Yuvraj Siagu can consider on the other hand is the safety of the Romanov and even the possibility of having the Russian Empire be a constitutional monarchy itself, instead of being an autocratic empire.

Not to mention that the Russian Empire is just too huge for Yuvraj Siagu to be allowed to still exist. The fall of the Russian Empire will indeed give rise to the USSR but will inevitably made the nation vulnerable and ready for grabbing for other nations. Not to mention that this will also made Yuvraj Siagu be able to have Butuan take part on the partaking. Which Yuvraj Siagu hopes for.

Yuvraj Siagu is not a good man nor would allow other nations to rise to threaten the leadership of Butuan. The current cooperation that Siam, Korea, and Japan have towards Butuan is under the control of Yuvraj Siagu himself. Applying the same principle made by the United States towards its allies in his past world. Arming its allies while also gearing itself, making them the superior one over the others.

His cooperation with Empress Dowager Maria were only made into action due to his fascination with the Romanov family and the stories he has read regarding the tragic ending of the family during the Russian Revolution. But upon realization on its corruption and the difficulty of saving, much like the Austria-Hungary that is destined to collapse, Yuvraj Siagu decided to abandon the plan of saving the monarchy and instead opted to save important members of the family to continue its bloodline.

But that is a topic for another thing, what Yuvraj Siagu is focusing on right now is something else. As another important matter is at hand for Yuvraj Siagu himself.

"Radhesh," Yuvraj Siagu called.

"Yes, Your Imperial Highness," Senior Eunuch Radhesh answered.

"After this visit, where are we heading then?" Yuvraj Siagu inquired while still looking at the playing children on the grounds.

"Basing on the schedule, Your Imperial Highness. After this inspection, you still needed to visit the Riverbanks Imperial Institution for quality and ground inspection along with the Minister of Education, Sports and Culture. After the visit at the Riverbanks Imperial Institution, your last stop will be at the laboratory of Doctor Rizal to inspect the facilities and the progress he and his team have made over the field of virology and medicine over the years." Senior Eunuch Radhesh stated while reading the schedule set by Head Eunuch Saanvi for Yuvraj Siagu himself.

"Oh? Is it really today to visit the institution huh…" Yuvraj Siagu muttered to himself before facing Senior Eunuch Radhesh and handing him five pages of paper with seriousness, "send this to the current head of police in Sooraj. I want these people involved on malicious activities over the years be held accountable on their sins."

Senior Eunuch Radhesh receives the paper while also taking a moment to take a glance at the content. Only to see the list of names of people with formidable backgrounds, from members of the House of Lords, current elected officials, and even business owners, which he is familiar with.

Senior Eunuch Radhesh can vaguely remember the day when these names were mentioned by his master, Yuvraj Siagu, to the head of the intelligence department of the military. He could remember the reaction made by the head of the intelligence department towards Yuvraj Siagu after being handed the mission. Senior Eunuch Radhesh understood the intelligence department head's reaction as the names being mentioned were not simple.

At that time, Senior Eunuch Radhesh only remembers their names and without the things they have done. But with the content of the papers that is currently at his hand, Senior Eunuch Radhesh could already say that the names being placed on these papers were already at their doom.

"What is the update with the monks and nuns in Dutch East Indies as of the moment?" Yuvraj Siagu suddenly called, bringing Senior Eunuch Radhesh to his senses.

With a serious tone, Senior Eunuch Radhesh replied, "Currently, the council have already sent their envoy towards it capital, Batavia, to negotiate with its governor general, Johannes Benedictus van Heutsz regarding the harassment and persecution happenings with the ministers of the faith."

Hearing Senior Eunuch Radhesh's words, Yuvraj Siagu could not help it but made a sour and unsatisfied expression. The matter of the persecution and harassment made by the native Muslims in the Dutch East Indies have been a huge topic within the inner circle of the faith for the past months. As the Aylashanism faith started to gain its foot in the area, the harassment grew and have been frequent also.

The Council of Palawan have consistently pleaded with Yuvraj Siagu to take action in saving the monks and nuns sent to the Dutch East Indies to spread the gospel. But he never really made a direct action in regards to this, leaving the entire matter to the temple to decide. Although he has already sent a letter towards the governor general of Dutch East Indies and the government in the Netherlands, before even the council of Palawan convene, asking for an explanation on the miniscule act made by its government towards the harassment.

But instead of receiving a proper explanation on the inadequacy of action made by the government in the Dutch East Indies, Yuvraj Siagu receives a half-hearted letter of response, which only infuriated him. Thus, he decided to leave everything towards the council but promises that further killings and harassment towards the monks and nuns of the Aylashanism faith in the area will be meet with military retaliation.

"For years, we have sent monks and nuns to the surrounding area to spread the teachings of our faith and have encountered zero harassment and killings of our people. Our monks have even managed to establish a foothold by gathering a total of 80 thousand believers outside our borders over the past years." Yuvraj Siagu seriously commented while staring at Senior Eunuch Radhesh. "Now, suddenly, there is this surge of violence. It is unacceptable."

Senior Eunuch Radhesh nodded, his face reflecting the gravity of the situation. "Your Imperial Highness, the council believes this escalation is due to growing tensions between the native Muslims and our missionaries. The rapid spread of Aylashanism has alarmed certain factions, leading to these unfortunate incidents."

Yuvraj Siagu sighed deeply, his mind racing with possible solutions. "We cannot afford to lose our presence there. The work our monks and nuns do is vital for our faith and for the people who have come to rely on their guidance and support. Not to mention that the growth of Aylashnism in the area is vital for the success of our future plan.

The fault is not under our responsibility but is under the government of the Dutch East Indies for their inadequate control over their colonies."

Senior Eunuch Radhesh stepped closer, his voice low and steady. "Your Imperial Highness, before arriving here, an envoy from the recently concluded council meeting of the archbishops arrived and told me that the council is prepared to take more direct action if necessary. Currently, the nuns and monks were accompanied by members of the Order of Butuan for their safety.

We have military resources at our disposal. A show of force might deter further harassment. The envoy further explains that since the maharaja is the current head of the faith, one word of confirmation and the Order of Butuan will be fully mobilize to defend our believers against those infidels."

Yuvraj Siagu nodded, considering the implications. "I want to avoid bloodshed, if possible, but we must protect our people. If the Dutch government continues to be unresponsive, we may have no other choice but to convince my papa to mobilize the military and the order. But while the door is open for negotiation and concession, I do not mind choosing this path for the safety of our people and soldiers."

He turned and gazed out the window, the laughter and childish games of children visible on his current position reflecting the peace and smiles he wanted to preserve. "Radhesh, prepare a detailed report on the current situation. I want to know every incident, every detail. We will send another envoy, one with the authority to make it clear that we will not tolerate any further aggression."

"Yes, Your Imperial Highness," Senior Eunuch Radhesh replied, bowing slightly.

"And," Yuvraj Siagu added, "make it known to the governor-general and the government in the Netherlands that our patience is wearing thin. If they cannot control their colony, we will have to intervene to protect our interests and our people."

Senior Eunuch Radhesh bowed again and left the room, leaving Yuvraj Siagu alone with his thoughts. The stakes were high, and he knew that every decision he made would have far-reaching consequences. As the heir and regent of the Butuan Empire, his responsibility was not only to his faith but also to the stability and prosperity of his realm.

He scans the now empty room with his eyes, before finally settling at the huge map of the entire Butuan Empire hanging on the wall. With a serious face and heavy atmosphere, Yuvraj Siagu came closer to the map and affectionately ran his hands along the area under Butuan's control.

"I promise," Yuvraj Siagu affectionately uttered, "I will surely expand you and made you a great nation this world would ever see. I will not allow others to bully you, much like the world have made fun to my previous country."

Yuvraj Siagu stood before the map, his fingers tracing the boundaries of the Butuan Empire. His mind swirled with the enormity of his responsibilities. Each territory, each city, and each citizen depended on his wisdom and strength to navigate these turbulent times.

The children's laughter outside provided a stark contrast to the gravity of the decisions he faced. Their innocent joy was a reminder of what he was fighting to protect—a future of peace and prosperity, free from the shadows of oppression and conflict.

A few minutes later, Yuvraj Siagu along with his courtiers and guards that protected him made their way towards the exit of the Surya Bhavan Anathashram with the intention of concluding his visit. The children and the nuns that was once at the ground of the orphanage can now be seen surrounding the exit of the orphanage while reporters with their cameras and residence near the orphanage excitedly waited outside to take a glance and revered their Yuvraj.

With a smile on his face, Yuvraj Siagu gently wave to the crowed while being surrounded by his court ladies and eunuchs for his protection. But before leaving, a small girl wearing a simple sonmin draw closer to Yuvraj Siagu and handed him a freshly picked flower, curtseying to show her respect towards Yuvraj Siagu himself. Amuse by the girl's action, Yuvraj Siagu decided to receive the flower and gently tap the head of the girl causing the camera and reporters to crazily capture the moment.

And as Yuvraj Siagu made his way towards his Digitab S, crowds that was patiently waiting outside the orphanage shouted Yuvraj Siagu's name with respect and reverence as it was not every day that they can see their future monarch on the ground. But despite their excitement, the crowds can be seen surprisingly organize and tame, unlike the crowds on Yuvraj Siagu's world.

Small flags of the empire and the imperial family can be seen being wave by the people while shouting greetings and praises towards Yuvraj Siagu, wanting to catch the attention of their future monarch.

Boarded on the Digitab S, Yuvraj Siagu and Senior Eunuch Radhesh then made their way towards their next destination, the Riverbanks Imperial Institution. Along the way, Yuvraj Siagu decided to peek outside the window of the Digitab S and witnessed the situation of the common people outside the capital. And unexpectedly, the situation is much better compared to his previous country on the same time frame.

Roads were made out of concrete, making the travel more convenient and smooth sailing, Yuvraj Siagu even heard that the roads like these were common on big cities and its surrounding areas. Houses from left to right, showing a mixture of modernity and tradition appears on each side of the road while electric wiring can be seen connecting these houses, giving light during the night and also on the road.

The addition of road lights was a new project made by Yuvraj Siagu with the approval of the prime minister and his cabinet. Taking inspiration from his previous world while also ensuring visibility on the night and safety of the people, the street lighting project came into fruition, replacing the old lamp styled street lights.

Kalesas and other ways of transportation can be seen using the road, cable car railway can also be seen being placed on each side of the road, both heading on opposite direction. While a handful early models of automobiles ridden by rich individuals can be seen using the roads. As most individuals cannot afford to have their own kalesa and automobiles, cable cars were the alternative for commute. Although others opted to have the communal carriages and wagons that cost cheaper compared to the cable cars.

Smile of satisfaction appears on Yuvraj Siagu's face while breathing the fresh air of the surroundings. Seeing the progress his nation has made over the years without being colonize nor invaded by the Western World, shows that corruption within the government have been not yet severe.

Although he admitted that his nation's government system is not perfect, but he can also cannot deny the fact that it is much better compared to his previous life's country's government system.

But despite the beauty of what Yuvraj Siagu is seeing on his nation's development, one thing is sure he won't be able to get rid of, and that is poverty. As his automobile made its way towards his destination, he can also see people with dirty looking sonmin and houses ravaged by poverty.

And despite how much Yuvraj Siagu wanted to get rid of poverty, but reality is as painful as it can be, as poverty is something that cannot be totally get rid of. But he believes that despite poverty not being eradicated, raising the standard of living of common people into a liveable one is enough already.

A few minutes later, Yuvraj Siagu and his entourage finally arrived at the entrance of the oldest and biggest educational institution of the empire, the Riverbanks Imperial Institute. Waiting for his arrival is the minister of education, sports and culture, Minister Aryan Nair, and his confidents. Besides Minister Aryan Nair is the current President and chancellor of the Riverbanks Imperial Institution, Chancellor Aarush Jain the 40th Chancellor of the institution since its founding.

Instructors and campus personnel crams the entrance of the institution, welcoming Yuvraj Siagu on his arrival with grand music and flags of the imperial house and empire waving on their hands. And in accordance with Yuvraj Siagu's request, the classes of the students were still ongoing despite his arrival, not wanting to disturb the student's education with his visit.

Yuvraj Siagu stepped out from the automobile, adjusting his finely embroidered coat as he surveyed the grand entrance of the Riverbanks Imperial Institute. The air buzzed with excitement, the music and cheers creating a lively atmosphere. Despite the challenges and the ever-present shadow of poverty he had just witnessed, moments like this reminded him of the potential and progress his nation was making.

Riverbanks Imperial Institution, the oldest and the most prestigious educational institution in the empire. Established during the reign of the 11th Rajah of the Rajahnate of Butuan, Rajah Aakesh I in 1320 as a military school. The Riverbanks Imperial Institution grew to be the most prestigious school and the heart of knowledge and discovery.

For years of its existence, the institution has witnessed the expansion of the empire and the defeat if had face towards its enemies. But despite this, the institution remains strong and have even manages to join the current smoothly. This is evident to the structures present inside the institution's compound, with it mixing with modernity and tradition.

With its main building follows the traditional architecture of Butuanon culture while other additional buildings are showing influence of modernity while traditional aesthetic manages to prevail. Nature have also shown growth in the entire campus, providing shade and peace for people inside the campus.

Minister Aryan Nair stepped forward, bowing slightly before offering his hand. "Your Imperial Highness, it is an honor to welcome you to the Riverbanks Imperial Institute."

Yuvraj Siagu grasped his hand warmly. "Thank you, Minister Nair. It is always a pleasure to visit such a venerable institution."

Chancellor Aarush Jain, a man of dignified presence and scholarly demeanour, joined the minister. "Your Imperial Highness, we are deeply honored by your visit. The students and faculty alike are eager to showcase the strides we've made in education and research."

Yuvraj Siagu nodded appreciatively. "I am eager to see the advancements firsthand, Chancellor Jain. Education is the backbone of our empire's future, and the work done here is invaluable."

As they began to walk through the institute's grounds, the entourage followed closely, the grandeur of the architecture reflecting the institute's long and prestigious history. A statue of Rajah Aakesh I made out of bronze proudly stood on the main ground of the institution. The first building that Yuvraj Siagu and the others decided to visit is the main building of the institution.

With the building consisting of 3-stories, it houses different essential rooms that is useful for daily functions of the institution. On the ground floor of the building, stone statue of the famous scholars of the empire that once became a student Riverbank Imperial Institution can be seen placed on each column of the building. All have plaque of their own, detailing their respective basic information and contribution.

Despite seeing this part of the institution before, Yuvraj Siagu could still feel the awe he felt upon the first day he laid his eyes on these statues. It is hard to explain for Yuvraj Siagu but the statue itself exerted an aura of authority and awe. But what really exerted most of this type of aura is the statue of the founder of the empire, placed on the furthest end of the hallway, near the stairs that connects the ground floor and the second floor.

The statue in question is the statue of Maharaja Charan I, intimidatingly looking down at those who will be using the stairs to access the second floor. The statue itself, much like other statue in the empire, can be describe as lifelike and almost looks like as if the actual depicted individual is present in the area.

The second floor of the building houses facilities and administrative offices that the ground floor could not accommodate. The third floor of the building on the other hand houses an indoor garden that gives further freshness to the ambiance of the entire building.

Passing the ground of the institution after exiting the main building, Minister Nair led the way, pointing out various buildings and their purposes. "Here, we have the new science wing, funded by recent investments in technology and innovation. And over there is the library, housing some of the rarest manuscripts and books in our empire."

The sound of lectures and discussions could be heard through open windows, a testament to Yuvraj Siagu's insistence that classes should continue despite his visit. Teachers enthusiastically and seriously made their lecture on their respective classrooms, completely not minding the passing of Yuvraj Siagu, Minister Nair, and Chancellor Jain.

Yuvraj Siagu's eyes sparkled with genuine interest as he took in the impressive sight of the Riverbanks Imperial Institute. The institute's architecture was a harmonious blend of traditional Butuanon elements and modern design, a symbol of the empire's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing progress.

"Minister Nair, the expansion of the science wing is truly commendable," Yuvraj Siagu remarked, his gaze lingering on the state-of-the-art facilities visible through the large windows. "Our future lies in the hands of those who can innovate and think critically. It is heartening to see such investment in their development."

Chancellor Jain smiled; pride evident in his expression. "Indeed, Your Imperial Highness. We have made significant strides in various fields of research, from engineering to medicine. Our scholars are collaborating with some of the brightest minds globally, ensuring that our students receive a world-class education."

As they walked, Yuvraj Siagu noticed a group of students gathered around a professor who was demonstrating an experiment. The students' faces were lit with curiosity and enthusiasm, a sight that brought a smile to his face.

"Seeing the passion and dedication of our young minds fills me with hope," he said. "They are the ones who will lead our empire into a brighter future."

Minister Nair led them towards the library, its grand entrance flanked by statues of ancient scholars. "The library is one of our most treasured assets," he explained. "It houses over a million volumes, including rare manuscripts that date back to the founding of our empire. We have made significant efforts to digitize these works, ensuring their preservation for future generations."

Yuvraj Siagu paused at the entrance, taking in the sight of rows upon rows of bookshelves, each filled with knowledge accumulated over centuries. "The preservation of knowledge is as important as its creation," he said thoughtfully. "It is through understanding our past that we can shape a better future."

Chancellor Jain nodded in agreement. "We have also established a special program to translate these ancient texts, making them accessible to scholars worldwide. Our goal is to foster a spirit of collaboration and shared learning."

As they continued their tour, Yuvraj Siagu was introduced to several professors and researchers, each eager to share their work. He listened intently, asking insightful questions and offering words of encouragement.

"The advancements you have made are truly impressive," he said. "But remember, the true measure of success is not just in innovation, but in the impact, it has on the lives of our people. Education and research must always serve the greater good."

Minister Nair and Chancellor Jain both nodded, clearly moved by his words. "Your Imperial Highness, your vision and leadership are what inspire us to strive for excellence," Minister Nair said. "We are committed to ensuring that the Riverbanks Imperial Institute remains a beacon of knowledge and progress."

Satisfied, Yuvraj Siagu then made his way towards the office of the Chancellor escorted by the same entourage. Seated on the chair of the chancellor of the Riverbank Imperial Institution, patiently reading the papers laid on the table for presentation while Chancellor Jain and Minister Nair, both seated on the chair facing Yuvraj Siagu.

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A/N: Hi everyone! I am uploading this two chapters just to share my excitement with you all. After months of attending review centers, I am now a official Professional Teacher! Just saw the result today and I was ecstatic seeing my name on the list.

But anyway, hope you like the updates. Thanks!