Chapter 106

AN: Before the start of this chapter, I would like to send my thanks to everyone who keeps on supporting my story. Thank you for the power stones and constant reading every chapter. Your actions have made me motivated to continue writing this story.

I am not a professional writer nor a good English writer, but I will continue to try and make this story interesting. I know that my story is full of fillers and unnecessary chapters but I wrote those chapters for me to know more my characters, especially those that I view as important pieces.

By the way, just a heads up. Starting from here, the story will likely involve religion, so if you are going to be offended by this, I would like to say my apologies in advance. I have designed the MC to be a fervent follower of the Aylashanism faith. Thus, religion will really play a crucial role in this story, I hope you all will understand that.

I have also decided that all pictures starting on this chapter shall be generated via anime version as it becomes more difficult for me to generate different facial features for my characters. 

Anyways, that's it for me and enjoy today's 2 chapters update.

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CHAPTER 106

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--- 3rd Person POV ---

--- 22nd of August 1904 ---

Sensing that the conversation has already been political and too serious, Maharani Alice decided to change the topic, adhering to the advice of Doctor Rizal of letting her husband relax and be away with political topics. It has only been weeks since her husband appointed their eldest son to be the regent while he recuperates and Maharani Alice would not spoil these moments with political matters that might brought her husband's health into a spiral.

Maharani Alice could still remember how Doctor Rizal told her that it was cancer on the liver that causes her husband's sudden collapse and declining health. It was a devastating moment for Maharani Alice to experienced. Causing her to almost collapse to the palace floor but was prevented by her eldest sister and other abagaanays. A moment of fear of losing her husband is what Maharani Alice felt by that time.

The dark memory of losing her child a few years back resurface to Maharani Alice's mind at that time. Causing her to collapse in tears and started to fear for the future of her husband and children. Comfort from her own mother what made Maharani Alice stops and take a moment to assess everything.

Determined to follow Doctor Rizal's counsel, Maharani Alice turned to her husband with a gentle smile. "Darling," she began softly, "do you remember our last trip to the summer palace? The gardens were in full bloom, and the children were so delighted with the butterflies."

Maharaja Siagu XV looks at his wife, cutting his conversation with his son over political matters as a tender memory surfaced. "Yes," he replied, a faint smile touching his lips. "I remember how Kiran and Anaya tried to catch every butterfly, convinced that each one had a unique story to tell."

Maharani Alice chuckled softly. "Perhaps we should plan another visit there. It would be a wonderful change of scenery and a chance for us all to relax together."

Maharani Alice's suggestion was met with murmurs of agreement from their son; Yuvraj Siagu sensing his mother's sudden intervention and goal.

The summer palace, with its serene surroundings and vibrant gardens, had always been a place of solace and joy for the family. It was the perfect antidote to the heavy burdens they currently faced. Located at the island of Luzon at Kafagway City (Baguio City), the summer palace became staple rest house for members of the imperial house of Shaja every summer to relax and stay away from the busy workloads.

Yuvraj Siagu have already visited the summer palace a few times already as the palace have been one of his favourite places to stay while in Luzon for visits with his cousins and relatives in Pangasinan.

Hearing his mother's suggestion on visiting the Summer Palace in Kafagway, Yuvraj Siagu could not help but recall the last time he visited the palace and it was just after the wedding of his cousin; Lady Kaahini and his friend; Crown Prince Vajiravudh, to relax and appreciate the beauty of the mountainous area of Kafagway.

He even plans to make the Summer Palace one of the official residents of the monarch and be taken away from the Imperial Estate Commissions leased palaces as it would be dangerous to allow residence of the monarch and the imperial family to be visited by the publics. And with his mother's plan of visiting the summer palace to relax, Yuvraj Siagu could not help but agreed to her mother's suggestion.

With a smile of agreement, Yuvraj Siagu seconded, "That is indeed a great idea, ma. The summer palace would not just help us retreat from the busy life of politics here in Sooraj but will also help us relax more and focus more on papa's recovery."

Hearing his son's words; Maharaja Siagu XV given up the idea to refuse his wife's suggestion as he was being outnumbered by his son and wife. Thus, with a somewhat forceful smile, Maharaja Siagu XV replied, "T-that would be a great idea. We should head to the summer palace then a month before the wedding of Siagu takes place."

A smile of delight exits the face of Maharani Alice and nodded enthusiastically towards her husband, "That is great!" Maharani Alice then turns her head to her son, "And speaking of your marriage, have you been informed by Khao as to when will she be here? Her vacation in Siam should have almost come to an end, if I am not mistaken."

Yuvraj Siagu smiles while slowly nodding, "Yes, she will be returning here a few weeks from now as she was just about to finish her 3 weeks' vacation."

With an intrigue look on her face, Maharani Alice replied, "Really? She must have been missing her family then after years of staying here in Sooraj to train of being a suitable wife of the future monarch."

"She is worthy the moment she first came here," Maharaja Siagu XV seconded with a gentle nod, confirming his wife's words.

Inwardly, Yuvraj Siagu were delighted to hear his fiancé return in few weeks' times as he already misses her. It has already been 7 years since his fiancé, Princess Abbhantripaja of Siam stays in Sooraj to start her training and education into Butuanon culture and tradition. Since being here in Sooraj, Princess Abbhantripaja or known by most as Princess Khao never separated to Yuvraj Siagu's side during their breaktime.

Yuvraj Siagu could still remember how he would spend his free time with Princess Khao in the palace garden or in the butterfly enclosure at Diliwata Estate. Spending their time building their bond and connection with each other while also adhering to their respective duty as future head of the Butuan Empire.

Every moment between Yuvraj Siagu and Princess Khao were precious specially after Yuvraj Siagu enters the military in accordance with the Shaja family's tradition. With his time in military that took 2 years to complete, Yuvraj Siagu and Princess Khao have rarely seen each other as Yuvraj Siagu is prohibited on leaving the camp without proper reason.

After the military service ending, Yuvraj Siagu and Princess Khao spends most of their time once again together and doing their trainings and education diligently.

"The marriage between you two will be held in a few months' time and is expected to be attended by our country's allies and important delegates from other nation. Cholalongkorn have informed me also that he will be coming to personally gave his daughter to you." Maharaja Siagu XV calmly stated while Maharani Alice smiles while slowly nodding in agreement.

"Papa, Mama…" Yuvraj Siagu stated in a serious tone, "I have a request to be made regarding our marriage."

With confusion on her eyes, Maharani Alice inquired, "Hmm? What is it?" With Yuvraj Siagu still in silence and in contemplation. Maharani Alice raises an eyebrow out of intrigue, "Don't tell me you are planning on backing out or postponing your union with Khao?"

With a startled expression on his face, Yuvraj Siagu aggressively shakes his head in denial, "No! I just want our marriage to be made after Mr. Faher launches the television."

Silence of contemplation and deep scrutiny from Maharaja Siagu XV and Maharani Alice were thrown into Yuvraj Siagu himself. Maharaja Siagu XV in particular were in silence and solely staring at his son in full scrutiny. While Maharani Alice was taking her time to ponder her son's suggestion.

Sweat of nervousness exited the hands of Yuvraj Siagu as the feeling of being intimidated by his father's stares never really disappeared. But despite how nervous he is, Yuvraj Siagu remains composed in the outside while throwing the same look towards his father, not wanting to be seen as a coward and weak.

But despite the deep stares from his parents, Yuvraj Siagu still hopes that his parents would agree on his suggestion as he was planning on having the wedding be broadcast throughout the empire, allowing those who are not present at the Temple of Sooraj to witnessed the event. He may be breaking some traditions for allowing the public to witnessed an imperial marriage but Yuvraj Siagu believes that with this action of having the marriage be televise, the support for the imperial family and the connection of the people towards them will greatly be boosted.

With a serious tone, Maharaja Siagu XV commented, "And what? Aiming the marriage to be televise and be witnessed by the public? Braking Imperial tradition of secrecy of the family."

"Is this true? Is this your aim of wanting the marriage to happened after the television were announced?" Maharani Alice seriously inquired, "Do you aim to destroy the tradition that the family held for centuries and just be tarnished with this?!"

Yuvraj Siagu's heart pounded in his chest, but he took a deep breath, steeling himself against the rising tide of doubt and fear. He knew he had to stand firm. "Yes, it is true," he responded, his voice steady and unwavering. "I believe that by allowing our marriage to be televised, we can show the people that we are not just rulers distant and removed from their lives. We can be seen as one of them, sharing in their joys and celebrations."

Maharani Alice's eyes softened slightly, a hint of understanding breaking through her initial sternness. She turned to her husband, a silent exchange passing between them. Maharaja Siagu XV's gaze did not waver, still piercing and intense, but there was a flicker of consideration there now.

"This is a radical departure from our traditions, Siagu," Maharaja Siagu XV finally said, his tone measured. "Our family has always upheld the sanctity and privacy of imperial ceremonies, not to mention marriages. What you propose could change the very fabric of how the empire views us."

Yuvraj Siagu nodded, fully aware of the gravity of his proposal. "I understand, Papa. But we are living in changing times. The invention of television by Mr. Faher presents us with an unprecedented opportunity. We can use this new technology to strengthen our bond with the people, to show them that we are evolving with them, not apart from them."

Maharani Alice looked thoughtful, her fingers lightly tapping on the armrest of her chair. "Change is indeed inevitable," she mused. "And while traditions hold their value, there is merit in adapting to the times."

Maharaja Siagu XV let out a slow, contemplative breath. "This decision is not one to be taken lightly. If we agree to this, it will set a precedent for future generations. It could either fortify our reign or weaken the perception of our authority."

Yuvraj Siagu straightened, meeting his father's gaze with unwavering resolve. "I am willing to take that risk. For the future of our empire, for the unity and trust of our people, I believe this is the right path. This will also booster the peoples support towards our family, now that the support towards the government have been dwindling."

A long silence followed, filled with the weight of generations of tradition and the potential for a new beginning. Finally, Maharaja Siagu XV nodded slowly. "Very well. We will discuss this further with the council and Mr. Faher. If this is to be done, it must be done with careful planning and consideration."

Maharani Alice gave a small, approving smile. "You have always been bold, my son. Let us hope that this boldness will lead us to a brighter future and not in danger."

Relief washed over Yuvraj Siagu, though he knew this was just the beginning of a long and arduous journey. "Thank you, Father. Thank you, Mother. I will not let you down."

As the family sat together, continuing their conversation and relaxation, a rare occasion that occur within the family. With the companionship of the courtiers surrounding the Pavilion of Eternal Wisdom (Sanatana Paviliun), privacy was then secured. Laughs and giggles revibrated throughout the pavilion as time goes by, time became irrelevant as Yuvraj Siagu and his parents spends their time for relaxation.

At the same time, on a secluded mountain in the island of Palawan, a magnificent temple of grandeur and opulence towered over the forest. The surrounding wilderness, untouched by human intervention, seemed to protect and secure the temple. Ancient stone stairs paved the way toward the temple's gates, blending seamlessly with the natural environment.

Despite its age, the stairs remained well-kept and devoid of any damages or dirt, allowing easy access to the temple, giving the temple a sense of importance. Along the stairs, statues of revered individuals were neatly placed in ascending order, all carved from stone. These statues depicted the saints of the Aylashanism faith, an integral part of the Butuan Empire's religious heritage.

Lower-ranking priests and nuns could be seen diligently cleaning and maintaining the entire temple complex. Their efforts were driven by the temple's significance in the Aylashanism faith, being the second heart of the religion after the temple of Sooraj. Today, the temple's importance was magnified as Archbishops from across the empire had gathered inside to discuss crucial matters regarding the future of their faith.

The once tranquil and rarely visited temple was now abuzz with activity as clergy and attendants prepared for the significant assembly. The air was thick with anticipation, and the sacred halls of the temple resonated with the whispered prayers and solemn chants of the devoted.

Inside, the temple's grandeur matched its magnificent exterior. The opulent interior spoke of the age and wealth the temple had accumulated over hundreds of years. Golden artifacts of great importance were meticulously placed on exquisite stands, each piece honoring its original owner and the dedication of its followers. The walls were adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant frescoes, depicting scenes of divine reverence and historical significance.

High above, the temple's vaulted ceilings were lined with ornate mosaics, their colors still vibrant despite the passage of time. Soft light filtered through stained glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of hues across the polished marble floors. The scent of incense wafted through the air, mingling with the faint aroma of ancient wood and stone.

At the heart of the temple, a grand altar stood, its surface covered with offerings of flowers, fruits, and finely woven fabrics. Clergy members moved with purpose, their robes flowing gracefully as they attended to their tasks. Some adjusted the placement of sacred relics, while others lit candles and recited prayers, their voices blending harmoniously with the background hum of activity.

On the extended head of the temple, a circular table had been meticulously arranged to encircle a relic of immense significance. The relic, encased in a mahogany coffin with a glass cover, was believed to be a fragment of the cross of Jesus Christ. A solitary beam of light, streaming through a hole in the ceiling, imbued the chamber with a sense of sacredness, casting an ethereal glow that heightened the room's solemn atmosphere.

Surrounding the relic was a stone table, its smooth surface interrupted only by the presence of eleven white stone chairs, each intricately carved and perfectly positioned. Of these chairs, ten were occupied by the archbishops of the Aylashanism faith, each adorned in ceremonial robes of white and gold. Their faces were marked by a grave expression, their attention focused on the documents clutched in their hands.

Hours had passed since the meeting among the archbishops had commenced, yet despite the considerable time invested, the proceedings showed no sign of nearing completion. The discussions had been intense, filled with debate and the gravitas befitting with the topic's great importance.

"The situation in the Dutch East Indies have been concerning already," Archbishop Adam of Sooraj seriously stated.

It has been years since Archbishop Adam became the Archbishop of Sooraj after years of dedication and piety towards the Aylashanism faith. From being a mere monk who practices his piety inside a monastery to being an official priest of a small temple in the region of Sabah and being promoted at the age of 50 as the Archbishop of Sooraj, achieving his dream of being an archbishop.

But being a high ranking official of the biggest Christian faith in the empire comes with great responsibility. Especially if the religion you are in are expanding on different territories. This is why, despite the sudden notice, Archbishop Adam along with his colleagues decided to have a unanimous meeting regarding the events that have transpired within the temple itself.

It has been hours already and Archbishop Adam and his colleagues have already tackled quite a lot of issues and motions within the faith. From the issues of corruption within the lower ranking priest up to the topic of constructing further temples to accommodate the ever-growing domestic conversion of the Butuanons. All have been thoroughly been tackled by the council.

But what made them stuck is the issue of the persecution of believers in the Dutch East Indies and in British Malaya, but the situation is much worst in the Dutch East Indies. This is because of the Muslims strict adherence to their faith that have causes issues with the propagation of the Aylashanism faith in the two Western colonies.

Archbishop Adam have been critical into this issue as it has only been recently that the persecution of believers in the Dutch East Indies and British Malaya occurred. But what is peculiar on Archbishop Adam's view is the specific targeting of Butuanon priest. Making Archbishop Adam a bit suspicious towards the real motive of the current killings of their monks and believers.

"It appears to be that persecution with the believers we have in Western Afdeelings in the Dutch East Indies have been increasing to a concerning level." Archbishop Zhongli of Maynila seconded.

"That is indeed true," an old and serious sounding voice seconded with Archbishop Zhongli's words, "according to the reports a total of 34 believers and monks have been found dead for the past 3 months already. The community of believers in Western Afdeelings have already been warned but concerns on the monks and nuns have continuously been growing."

Archbishop Adam knew the origin of the voice as the owner of the voice is currently one of 3 Archbishops that reaches the age of 80 and is still refusing to retire nor retreat in seclusion. Archbishop Sebastian of Cebu, currently at the age of 84, yet despite his advance age, Archbishop Adam could still see the piety and dedication Archbishop Sebastian have towards the proliferation of the Aylashanism faith.

According to the knowledge of Archbishop Adam, Archbishop Sebastian is known to be strict and stubborn in the adherence of the sacred laws of the temple and the bible. For years of being the Archbishop of Cebu, Archbishop Sebastian have been living in poverty, refusing to indulge himself into worldly materials. Archbishop Adam also know that due to the piety and devotion Archbishop Sebastian have towards the temple, Archbishop Sebastian is the one who proposes expanding the faith outside the sphere of the empire's protection.

And currently, the Aylashanism faith have already penetrated the surrounding countries of Butuan, and its biggest membership conversion are in the newly acquired island of Taiwan and in the Western Afdeelings under the Dutch, which currently faces huge persecution.

Murmurs of discontent and irritation along with concern could be heard revibrating throughout the temple after Archbishop Sebastian made his comment. The air in the grand chamber was thick with tension. The members of the council of Palawan, each draped in the traditional priestly robes, sat around the ornate table, their faces a mix of concern and determination. The discussion had moved from administrative issues to the heart-wrenching topic of persecution, a matter that weighed heavily on all their minds.

Archbishop Adam, presiding over the council, took a deep breath. His gaze swept across the room, taking in the worried expressions of his colleagues. The council needed to find a resolution, not just to protect their fellow believers but also to address the underlying issues that were causing such strife.

"We must understand the root of this hostility," Archbishop Adam began, his voice steady yet carrying the weight of his concern. "Why are our Butuanon priests and the believers whom chooses to follow Christ were being specifically targeted? What is it about their presence that threatens the established order in the Dutch East Indies?"

Archbishop Zhongli nodded thoughtfully. "It's possible that the rapid spread of Aylashanism has been perceived as a direct threat to the dominant religious and cultural norms in these regions. The Muslim communities, in particular, might feel their traditions are being undermined. Especially after the Dutch stops forcibly converting them into Christianity."

A younger archbishop, Minh Thiện of Davao, spoke up. "We should consider diplomatic channels. Perhaps we can engage with local leaders and find a way to coexist peacefully. Hostility often stems from fear and misunderstanding. If we can address these fears, we might find common ground."

With a scuff of ridicule Archbishop Amir of Sulu interjected, "Peacefully? The heathens have no way of wanting to peacefully coexist with us. Have you not been reading the reports young archbishop? Over 34 believers have been founded dead for the past months, and threats have been received by our monks and nuns all over the area. You cannot reason with them for they are not people of better intellect.

The Buddhist, Shinto, and Korean Confucian might have been better compared to these heathens. But those people in Afdeelings? Hmp! They have shunned the grace of the Lord and choose differently."