Chapter 114

--- 3rd Person POV ---

--- 8th of September 1904 ---

"… The ancient Butuanon warriors clothing has been varying for years depending on the era and its usage." A tour guide narrated towards a group of students whom have entered the history section of the museum.

Yuvraj Siagu, along with Senior Eunuch Radhesh, standing at the back of the crowd, not wanting to catch any attention of the people in the entire building. Excitement was visible on the faces of the students as Yuvraj Siagu observed the flow of the tour. Even Yuvraj Siagu himself felt a sense of excitement seeing the artifacts being displayed in the institution's museum.

"Your Imperial Highness," Senior Eunuch Radhesh called gently, "I think it would be much better to have the household guards with us in here rather than having us two only inside this building. Your safety is under great risk without them in here."

Yuvraj Siagu, still taking in the historical displays, turned to Senior Eunuch Radhesh with a gentle smile. "I understand your concern, Radhesh. But sometimes, blending in with the crowd offers more safety than a visible entourage of guards."

Senior Eunuch Radhesh's eyes flickered with worry. "But Your Imperial Highness, your safety is paramount. The Maharani would surely punish me severely if ever something bad would happen to you."

Yuvraj Siagu smiles teasingly towards Senior Eunuch Radhesh's words. "My mother won't do such a thing, Radhesh."

Shaking his head in his master's unreasonable words, Senior Eunuch Radhesh gave in and replied, "One day, I am certain that you will expedite my death and cause my cremation due to your hardheadedness."

Yuvraj Siagu chuckled softly at Senior Eunuch Radhesh's words, the sound light and carefree, a stark contrast to the concern etched on Radhesh's face. "You worry too much, Radhesh," he said, his tone affectionate. "I promise, nothing will happen. Besides, this is an opportunity to experience the world like any other person."

Radhesh sighed, but a small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. "You always have a way of turning my worries into something trivial, Your Imperial Highness."

Yuvraj Siagu returned his attention to the tour guide, who was now explaining the significance of a particularly ornate set of armor displayed behind glass. The armor, made of interlocking plates and adorned with intricate carvings, was a symbol of Butuanon's warrior spirit during the empire's golden age. The students leaned in closer, their eyes wide with fascination as the guide detailed the craftsmanship and the history behind the piece.

"During the early era of the Rajahnate, majority of the clothing for warriors are made out of fabrics and only limited amount of their clothing are made out of metal for protection." the guide explained. "And since this era were in the year 900s towards the 1200s, few of their armor and clothing manages to survive the test of time. The only known complete set of Butuanon warrior clothing during this era is currently owned by the Imperial family and is house at the Sooraj Museum of Antiquity section."

Murmur revibrated from the crowd of students as they absorbed the information. The mention of the Imperial family owning such a rare and significant artifact sparked curiosity and awe among them. Yuvraj Siagu, standing quietly at the back, couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. The history of his people, of his ancestors, was something he held close to his heart, and to see it preserved and respected in this way filled him with a deep sense of connection to his heritage.

The tour guide continued, gesturing towards another display case. "As time progressed into the Middle Rajahnate period, around the 13th to 15th centuries, Butuanon warriors began incorporating more metal into their attire, particularly for those of higher ranks. You'll notice here the shift in materials, with the inclusion of bronze and iron, used not just for protection but also to signify status and prestige."

As the tour guide continues his words, his hands directed the attention of the people towards the . A mixture of metal works and clothing for comfort were the armour used by the Butuanon warriors in 13th to 15th century, showing the improvement it gets over time.

"The incorporation of the metal armour in majority of the warriors battle clothing is due to the mastery of bending metals and the booming of trades with other Asian courtiers during this period precious metals and techniques." The tour guide explains while proudly explaining towards the crowd in front of him, "As other nation continues to trade with the expanding Rajahnate towards north. The Rajahnate continues to accumulate wealth and techniques from other nation seeking to trade with the Rajahnate. By this time also, the once weak and frail Rajahnate that emerges after the clanning era, whom seeks the protection from the bigger Song and later Yuan Dynasty, stops sending tribute towards these dynasties and started to pave its way on becoming a powerful regional kingdom."

Yuvraj Siagu unconsciously nodded his head in confirmation as he continues to listen towards the tour guide's explanation. It might be insignificant for others to have an accurate historical information being circulated but for Yuvraj Siagu, whom have experienced seeing people trying to change history and its effect, having false information about history is problematic in the long run, especially if information were uncovered to debunk the false made history.

Satisfied with what he is hearing, Yuvraj Siagu started to made his way towards the other section of the museum, the history and founding of the Riverbanks Imperial Institution. Immerse with the beauty and antiquity of the pieces present in the section, Yuvraj Siagu became unable to realize that Senior Eunuch Radhesh have already distance himself with Yuvraj Siagu and was replaced by a woman in her middle adolescent age.

Wearing a beautiful and extravagant sonmin in white and gold, adorn with golden jewelries and pearls, one can say that the woman came from unordinary background. With the woman's arrival, people started slowly to disappear in the area, making it for Yuvraj Siagu to notice. He wasn't even able to notice the disappearance of Senior Eunuch Radhesh behind him, even the arrival of a woman behind him, how much more are the disappearance of insignificant people surrounding him.

Senior Eunuch Radhesh, whom have decided to stand outside the entrance of the section could not help it but chuckle with amusement on how indifferent his master is towards his surrounding, completely trusting his safety towards him. But one factor also that is making Senior Eunuch Radhesh chuckles is the sudden arrival of Princess Abbhantripaja, his mater's fiancé.

Senior Eunuch Radhesh is unaware of today's arrival of Princess Abbhantripaja, much like his master. Thus, upon seeing Princess Abbhantripaja's sudden arrival, Senior Eunuch Radhesh almost shouts in surprise, good thing that he was able to control himself and retreated in secret. Allowing Princess Abbhantripaja to sneak smoothly. He is also happy as this will make his master happy in seeing his fiancé.

Yuvraj Siagu, engrossed in the history of the Riverbanks Imperial Institution, examined the artifacts and read the inscriptions with a keen eye. The quiet elegance of the museum, combined with the rich historical details, drew him in completely. Each piece spoke to him of the empire's grand past, its triumphs, and its traditions. It was a connection to his heritage that he cherished deeply.

As he moved deeper into the exhibit, he remained oblivious to the subtle changes around him. The once-crowded room had slowly emptied, the usual whispers of visitors fading into silence. It wasn't until he felt a gentle presence behind him that Yuvraj Siagu became aware of how isolated he had become.

Turning around, his gaze fell upon a figure of serene beauty. A young woman standing before him was adorned in a sonmin of white and gold, the intricate design shimmering under the soft lighting of the museum. Her golden jewelry and pearls accentuated her noble bearing, leaving no doubt about her distinguished background.

For a moment, Yuvraj Siagu was taken aback, his mind processing the sudden and unexpected presence of someone so familiar and yet out of place in this quiet, scholarly setting. Then, recognition dawned on him, and a warm smile spread across his face.

"Tired of inspecting these artifacts?" Princess Abbhantripaja inquired while smiling gently.

Nodding his head, Yuvraj Siagu replied, "Yes, that is because I have already found my artifact." his voice filled with a mix of surprise and joy.

Princess Abbhantripaja's gentle laughter filled the room, a sound that seemed to echo off the ancient walls, blending seamlessly with the ambiance of the museum. Her eyes sparkled with amusement at Yuvraj Siagu's response.

"Your artifact, you say? I'm flattered," she replied with a playful tone, stepping closer to him.

Yuvraj Siagu's gaze softened as he took in the sight of her. It was a rare moment of intimacy, away from the eyes of the court, where the weight of their responsibilities seemed to lift, if only for a little while. Besides, Yuvraj Siagu could not deny the fact that he misses his fiancé after months of being away from each other.

The same goes with Princess Abbhantripaja herself, causing her to instantly visit Yuvraj Siagu at the Riverbanks Imperial Institution after hours of arriving in Sooraj. She even purposely did not tell her fiancé that she will be arriving today just to surprise Yuvraj Siagu, and she successfully did. And basing with her fiancé's reaction, a sense of satisfaction and contentment fills her heart, knowing full well that she has found gold in the field of dirt.

Since she was a kid, prior to being betrothed to Yuvraj Siagu, Princess Abbhantripaja knew that she only has three choices for her future pathway after reaching marriable age. The first one is to marrying a member of her family and maintain her status of being a princess and fulfil her duty as a wife by producing children.

The second is by marrying into either a prominent political family or military family, while subsequently giving up her status of being a princess and becoming a mere commoner with low influence. While the third one is to be single and refuse every marriage that her mother or father would give her, just to maintain her status and influence in the kingdom.

At eight years old, she had made up her mind to pursue the latter path. She was determined to resist any marriage proposal, to keep her independence and influence intact, using her position to advocate for women's rights and education. But all of that changed when she learned of her betrothal to Yuvraj Siagu, the heir to the Butuan Empire.

The Butuan Empire was not just any nation—it was the strongest and wealthiest in the region, a powerful ally to her kingdom. And Yuvraj Siagu was not just any prince; he was a man of character, intelligence, and warmth, someone who respected her aspirations and shared her vision for the future.

In Yuvraj Siagu, Princess Abbhantripaja had found something far more valuable than the independence she had once clung to. She had found a partner, someone who could walk alongside her, not just as a husband, but as an equal. And in that realization, her resolve had softened, making her heart open to the possibility of love and partnership.

"I didn't expect you to be here," he admitted, his voice quieter, carrying the weight of his emotions. "But I'm glad you came."

Princess Abbhantripaja smiled, a gentle and reassuring expression that made Yuvraj Siagu feel as if the world outside didn't matter in this moment. She reached out, her touch light yet comforting, and placed her hand on his arm.

"I wanted to see you," she replied softly, her voice full of sincerity. "I've missed you."

Her words were simple, but they carried the depth of her feelings, the loneliness she had felt in his absence, and the joy of being reunited. Yuvraj Siagu could see it in her eyes, and it mirrored the emotions swirling within him.

He covered her hand with his own, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I've missed you too," he confessed, his gaze never leaving hers. "More than I can put into words."

"Hehe… Such sweet talker as always." Princess Abbhantripaja giggling stated before started walking and exploring artifacts displayed on the area.

Yuvraj Siagu, seeing his fiancé's interest on the displayed artifacts in the area, he decided to tail her, observing and appreciating his fiancé's appearance. For months of being separated with each other, Yuvraj Siagu once again able to take a glance at his fiancé, whom he promises love and companionship.

As a man whom came from the future, it was a bit hard for to be suddenly betrothed to a young woman under the age of 10. He even started to view his betrothal with Princess Abbhantripaja as an older brother taking care of his younger sibling. But as years and days of spending time with each other, communicating, and having each other as their pillar of strength. Yuvraj Siagu manages to develop some feelings towards his fiancé, a feeling that the fist rejected but later on accepted wholeheartedly.

And after years of cultivating their relationship and experiencing arguments and disagreements in some cases. Yuvraj Siagu could not believe that he and his fiancé will be tying the knot in few months after years of being engage. Despite only being 18 and Princess Abbhantripaja being 16, their union is already set and final.

Originally, he wanted to have their marriage after Princess Abbhantripaja reaches the age of 18 but his father and Princess Abbhantripaja's father both disagree on this suggestion of Yuvraj Siagu. Thus, without the support of his family and the approval of his father and father-in-law, he reluctantly agreed and accepted the reality of his current situation.

"Are you not following me?" Princess Abbhantripaja called after noticing her fiancé's sudden halt.

Yuvraj Siagu snapped out of his thoughts at the sound of Princess Abbhantripaja's voice, realizing he had been momentarily lost in his reflections. A warm smile spread across his face as he quickened his pace to catch up with her.

"I'm right here," he responded, his voice gentle, carrying a hint of affection. He joined her side, his gaze shifting between the artifacts and the woman who had become so important to him.

Princess Abbhantripaja noticed the thoughtful expression on his face and couldn't help but tease him a little. "You seemed deep in thought. Care to share?"

He chuckled, a sound that was both lighthearted and genuine. "Just thinking about how lucky I am," he replied, his words simple but carrying the weight of his sincerity.

Startled by his candid admission, Princess Abbhantripaja felt a warmth rising to her cheeks. She quickly turned her face away, trying to hide the blush that was creeping across her skin. In an attempt to cover her embarrassment, she gently pushed Yuvraj Siagu's shoulder, a playful gesture that only made him chuckle more.

Seeing her flustered reaction, Yuvraj Siagu couldn't resist teasing her a bit further. "Did I say something wrong?" he asked, feigning innocence, though his eyes sparkled with amusement.

Princess Abbhantripaja shot him a mock glare, though the corners of her mouth betrayed her, curving into a smile. "You know exactly what you did," she retorted, her voice laced with playful annoyance.

He chuckled, a sound that was both lighthearted and genuine. "Just thinking about how lucky I am," he replied, his words simple but carrying the weight of his sincerity, "That in month from now, our union will finally be happening, binding us together into a union that will last until the last of our breath."

Princess Abbhantripaja's playful expression softened as she heard Yuvraj Siagu's words, the sincerity in his voice making her heart flutter. The thought of their upcoming union, a momentous event that would forever change their lives, filled her with both excitement and a touch of nervous anticipation.

"Until our last breath," she echoed softly, her eyes meeting his. The weight of those words, the promise they carried, resonated deeply within her. Despite the expectations placed upon them by their positions, in that moment, it felt like it was just the two of them, forging a bond that transcended duty and responsibility.

Yuvraj Siagu reached out, gently taking her hand in his. "I meant what I said," he continued, his voice steady and filled with warmth. "I'm not just marrying you because it's expected of us. I'm marrying you because I want to. Because I can't imagine my life without you in it."

Princess Abbhantripaja's heart swelled with emotion. The future, once uncertain and daunting, now seemed brighter with him by her side. She squeezed his hand, a silent acknowledgment of the trust and love that had grown between them.

"I feel the same way," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "Our union may have been arranged, but what we've built together... it's ours. And I cherish that more than anything."

With a gentle tug, Yuvraj Siagu led her forward, continuing their walk through the museum. But now, every step felt different, every glance between them laden with unspoken promises and a shared understanding of what lay ahead.

As they walked side by side, hand in hand, Princess Abbhantripaja couldn't help but feel that she had indeed found her greatest treasure—not in the relics of the past, but in the man who would soon become her husband.

As the day progress and the sun finally gazes its final ray towards Sooraj for the day, streets lights started to illuminate the entire city and its roads. Houses started to emit lights to allow its occupants visibility inside. And despite the night almost upon to descent on the entire nation, Sooraj continues to bustle with noise of people and vehicle, heading towards their respective destination.

On the other part of the city, the heart of the imperial family and the most important and heavily guarded side of Sooraj, the Imperial City. Inhabited by the imperial family and important family members and buildings of great importance. Vailed with ethereal beauty and opulence, one can see how important the entire city is, even the locals who have gained limited access in the area have still regarded the city with reverence and respect.

But the ethereal imperial city that is usually vailed in silence every evening were bustling with life and celebration as a private banquet hosted by Maharaja Siagu XV is currently happening. It appears to be that it was not just Princess Abbhantripaja whom have come in Sooraj but also Crown Prince Vajiravudh and his wife, Crown Princess Kaahini; Yuvraj Siagu's cousin. Princess Abbhantripaja's mother, Queen Consort Sae Rojanadis, and Queen Consort Sukhumala Marasri; one of King Rama V's queen consort also came in advance.

In honor to their arrival and the jubilee of the occasion to come, Maharaja Siagu XV held a private banquet at the dining hall in the Palace of Sella. Maharaja Siagu XV's siblings, Maharajkumar Sharvil, Maha Samrat of Cebu, and Maharajkumari Haimi, Samrati of Siargao, along with their respective family attended the event. While members of the cabinet were also invited to attend the banquet along with the ambassador of Siam to Butuan.

Maharajkumari Haimi's husband, Vice-Admiral Alexander, Samrat of Siagao, were not able to attend due to him being in Japan as the overseeing military officer in the empire. Tasked to assist and continuously strengthens the relationship between Japan and Butuan, along with its allies. Thus, despite their daughter arriving, as duty calls him first, Maharajkumari Haimi did not force her husband into leaving his post.

As the night deepens and foods started to be served by the courtiers coupled with the melodious music from the musical courtiers causing the dining hall of the palace of Sella became more ethereal. And to officially welcome everyone in the gathering, Maharaja Siagu XV, despite appointing Yuvraj Saigu as regent, he still gave a welcoming message.

Maharaja Siagu XV rose from his seat, his regal presence commanding the attention of everyone in the room. The warm glow of the chandeliers reflected off the gilded walls of the Palace of Sella's dining hall, casting a soft light over the gathered guests. The air was thick with anticipation, and the melodic strains of the musicians played softly in the background, adding to the grandeur of the evening.

He stood tall, his posture exuding the confidence and dignity that had long defined his reign. Though he had recently appointed Yuvraj Siagu as regent, Maharaja Siagu XV remained the heart and soul of the Butuan Empire, his influence and wisdom still deeply revered by all present.

With a calm and measured voice, he began to speak, his words carrying the weight of both tradition and warmth. "Honored guests, esteemed members of our imperial family, and respected allies, it brings me great joy to welcome you all to this gathering tonight."

He paused, his gaze sweeping across the room, taking in the familiar faces of his family and the distinguished guests who had traveled far to be here. Crown Prince Vajiravudh and Crown Princess Kaahini, who had recently arrived from Siam, nodded respectfully. The presence of Princess Abbhantripaja's mother, Queen Consort Sae Rojanadis, and Queen Consort Sukhumala Marasri further underscored the importance of this occasion.

"We are gathered here not only to celebrate the arrival of our esteemed guests from Siam but also to honor the bonds that tie our nations together," Maharaja Siagu XV continued, his voice resonating with sincerity. "These ties are built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared vision for the future of our people. For years, our two nations have only been allied in facing mutual enemies, unable to solidify the connection of our two great nations.

With the union of Crown Prince Vajiravud and my dearest niece, Crown Princess Kaahini, our two great houses were few steps closer into attaining complete harmony with each other. Not to mention the child that my niece be delivering in the months to come."

Nods and smiles of agreement revibrated throughout the entire hall, even the courtiers whom have been serving the imperial house of Shaja silently nodded in agreement. Crown Princess Kaahini, whom is currently pregnant for 5 months smiles in delight while her hand is being held by her husband, Crown Prince Vajiravudh. Even Maharajkumari Haimi who heard her younger brother, Maharaja Siagu XV, words could not help but affectionately look at her daughter. Proudly looking as to how great her daughter has become for the past years of being under her tutelage.