Chapter 110

--- 3rd Person POV ---

--- 25th of August 1904 ---

But as the talks of rebellion started to take its foothold on major cities of the empire, the military still continuous to sends its soldier to the frontline, battling the Japanese in the Manchuria, wanting to counter the Japanese Empire's influence over the entire region. And as soldiers were being sent in the Manchuria region, so does the peoples dissatisfaction continues to rise within the lower strata of the empire.

As peasants continues to suffer heavily from the heavy burden of the taxes imposed to them. So does their anger and resentment continues to rise against the government itself. And without even noticing it by the dugma and the governing senate, small uprising has been happening on the regions far from the capital.

In the corridors of Winter Palace, after exiting the chamber of Tsar Nicholas II. Empress Dowager Maria and along with the others made their way out from the winter palace, faces full of anger and disappointment, not just towards her own child; Tsar Nicholas II, but to the government itself, whom have allowed everything to run the way it is happening.

This have made Empress Dowager Maria started to regret herself for staying away from the court of Imperial Russia for too long and allowing her idiotic son to rule the nation in such buffoonery. She might not be originally from Russia but her time spent and memories made within the empire have made her love the nation, treating it just like her own home country. Thus, after seeing its condition under the rulership of her own son, she could not help it but feel regretful.

Empress Dowager Maria paused, gathering her strength. "We must act swiftly," she said to Sergei and Elizabeth. "The fate of Russia depends on it. Especially your life, Sergei."

"We are with you," Sergei replied firmly while nodding. "Whatever it takes."

Elizabeth nodded; her face set with determination. "For Russia, and for our family."

"I-I will help you as well, mother." Tsarina Alexandra suddenly chimed causing the others to look at her.

"Are you sure about this, sister?" Grand Duchess Elizabeth inquired while holding the hand of Tsarina Alexandra tightly.

"I am sure," Tsarina Alexandra noddingly replied, "I fear that if I don't act now, I will not just be losing my husband in the future but also my children. And I cannot bear to see that day came into being."

With a smile, Empress Dowager Maria nod and hug Tsarina Alexandra with affection and comfort, "I am glad you have finally realized this. Come, let us all prepare for the salvation of Russia."

As they made their way through the palace, Empress Dowager Maria could feel the enormity of the task ahead. But she knew they had no choice. The time for words was over. Now, they would have to fight for the future of the empire, against all odds, and even against their own blood.

The grandeur of the Imperial Korean court was on full display as Emperor Gojong sat in dignified silence upon the Phoenix Throne, a majestic seat adorned with elaborate golden phoenixes and intricate carvings symbolizing both wisdom and resilience. His robes, adorned in deep blue and silver embroidery, reflected the empire's strength and resilience, standing firm amidst the tides of change sweeping Asia.

The ministers before him took turns presenting reports with measured voices, detailing issues from the latest diplomatic relations with Japan and Russia to the growing influence of Western powers in neighboring nations. They spoke of the rise in Japanese naval power, the whispered alliances between Russia and the Qing, and the economic stresses Korea faced as it worked to maintain autonomy amidst foreign pressures. Emperor Gojong listened with grave attention, nodding occasionally, his face composed but his eyes intense.

A seasoned minister stepped forward, bowing respectfully before speaking. "Your Imperial Majesty, Maharaja Siagu XV have given us the signal to join hands with the Japanese in its offensive against the Russian and the Qing."

Emperor Gojong sat up a little straighter, the gravity of the situation now fully evident on his face. The alliance with Butuan, represented by the powerful Maharaja Siagu XV, held significant weight; if Butuan was moved enough by the Qing's actions to allow Korea's involvement with Japan against the Russians and Qing, the circumstances must indeed be pressing.

With a thoughtful frown, Emperor Gojong turned his gaze to the seasoned minister, who awaited his response with patient anticipation. "It appears Maharaja Siagu sees a threat that cannot be left unchecked. The Russian ambitions alone were bold, but the Qing's involvement adds a dangerous complexity. With people on their court still wanting to retake our nation under their rule, our hands are tied to let the Qing Dynasty rule us again or join the Japanese, evoking the clauses in the alliance."

The minister nodded. "Yes, Your Imperial Majesty. Maharaja Siagu believes that by involving ourselves with the war against the Russian and the Qing we would not just stop the Russian expansion in our region but will also be able to finally crush those Qing soldiers whom have consistently been an eyesore in our border. He fears Russia's growing disregard for neighboring sovereignties and the Qing's willingness to support it as a means to expand its influence."

"Your Imperial Majesty," another young minister stepped forward, bowing respectfully, "I suggest that you do not heed the words of the Maharaja. Butuan has been too bold to command us into deciding whether to join the war or not. They are taking our very own sovereignty and taking us a mere puppet under their rule! Please consider this, Your Imperial Majesty!"

Silence and awkwardness descended to the entire court after the minister finishes his words. Menacing glares and stares where then thrown to the young minister whom have spoken. Blaming the young minister for his idiocrasy and dumbness, as even an ant know that Butuan is the only nation that Korea must not talk bad nor betray.

Not to mention that Butuan have provided an enormous amount of investment to Korea, lifting the standard of living of the people. Making the reign of Emperor Gojong prosperous in any aspect of the peoples' lives.

Yet, an idiotic young minister whom wanted to outshine the others dares to accuse Butuan of making Korea a puppet.

Emperor Gojong's expression remained carefully neutral, but the faint tension around his eyes suggested his displeasure. The court's silence was heavy, each minister avoiding the emperor's gaze, well aware of the young official's misstep. The minister, sensing the cold shift in the room, bowed his head lower, realizing the gravity of his words.

Emperor Gojong's gaze settled on the young minister; his voice calm yet unmistakably firm. "The Maharaja's advice is not a command but a counsel rooted in shared interests. Butuan has stood as our ally and has invested greatly in our welfare, elevating the lives of our people without infringing upon our sovereignty." He let his words sink in before continuing, "To dismiss this alliance is not only unwise but also ungrateful. Not to mention that we will be risking the ere of Japan and Siam on this matter."

A murmur of agreement passed through the court, and the young minister looked down, chastened. Another senior official, hoping to redirect the conversation, stepped forward, bowing deeply. "Your Imperial Majesty speaks the truth. Butuan has treated Korea as a trusted partner, not a subordinate. Their counsel reflects their commitment to preserving the balance of power in our region."

Emperor Gojong gave a nod of approval. "Precisely. Korea shall stand with its allies not out of obligation, but mutual respect and benefit." He paused, his gaze sweeping the assembly. "Let us remember that in this era of shifting powers, unity may be our strongest shield."

The court visibly relaxed, the emperor's words reaffirming their course. The court day with the ministers continues for a few more hours before it finally came into conclusion, with the Korean Empire preparing to mobilize its forces to join the battle against the Russians and the Qing. With ministers started to discuss with one another things to be made before the assault against the Russian and Qing forces in Manchuria be made.

But as the ministers exited the palace compound and made their way towards the parliament building and their respective offices. General Antonio Luna arrives at Gyeongbokgung Palace, escorted with a handful of Butuanon soldiers. He made his way towards the Geunjeongjeon hall, seeking an audience with Emperor Gojong, whom welcomed him with a smile.

After the war with Japan, to help the then Joseon into maintaining order and peace within the country. Maharaja Siagu XV decided to assign the then Major General Luna and now General Luna along with other soldiers to help rebuild the country and be stationed for protection. This is part of the agreement made by Emperor Gojong and Maharaja Siagu XV prior to Korea's independence.

And since then, General Luna have been helping Korea's Imperial Military to reach the same standard as the military forces of Butuan and Siam. And General Luna is proud on how his trained Korean soldiers have turned out, bringing the pride of soldiers being trained by a Butuanon General.

With Emperor Gojong informing General Luna on the acceptance of Korea to Butuan's suggestion on joining the battle with Japan against Russia and Qing. Evoking the clauses stipulated on the alliance between their nations. Which was welcomed by General Luna with a smile and a commendation on standing up on their own sovereignty.

"Your Imperial Majesty," General Luna respectfully started, "As much as I and Butuan would have wanted to support you on your cause in joining the battle. Butuan Empire and us soldiers stationed in Korea will not be participating the upcoming battle. This is to avoid the further escalation of the battle as the possibility of Butuan and Siam's involvement will trigger Britain and France's to join also to counter Butuan and Siam's forces."

Emperor Gojong smiles at General Luna's words, fully understanding the reasoning for Butuan and Siam's involvement in the war. As he knew that it is not the British and the French that have Butuan and Siam's forces in check but even the Germans and other Western countries have been keeping an eye to Butuan's activities.

"General Luna, Butuan and Siam's involvement in this war is unnecessary," Emperor Gojong assured, "Butuan and Siam have been too occupied already with their own problems against the French and the British. Involving themselves to this battle will only further stretch the forces of Butuan and Siam, weakening its borders."

General Luna remain in silence after hearing Emperor Gojong's words as there is no reason for denying the truth. Since the development of aeroplanes, western nations have been wearying of Butuan's rise to power after years of secluding itself, which General Luna loath so much.

So much so that if given a chance to join the fight, he would gladly do so and fight against the Russians. But as a loyal soldier and commanding leader of the Butuanon Imperial Army and a devout follower of the Imperial Family and the Maharaja, General Luna could not do anything but keep it to himself.

But despite not being able to join the battle, he can still blow a huge damage to the forces of Russia and Qing by sending his personally trained Korean soldiers to battle. Not just will this boost the morale of Korean forces but will also boost his personal pride and the nation he represents in producing fine soldiers fit for war.

"To compensate with the absence of Butuan," General Luna calmly stated, "With the approval of the Maharaja and the Prime Minister of Butuan. Regent Yuvraj Siagu have sent a total of a thousand assorted guns and ammunitions, latest to the Butuanon Imperial Military arsenal, developed by the engineers and workers. Additional to this, the Yuvraj have also sent 5 bombing aeroplanes as per requested to the additional forces of the Korean Imperial Military."

Emperor Gojong's face lit up with a faint smile upon hearing General Luna's words. This support from Butuan was a gesture of solidarity and strength, despite their official absence from the battlefield. The provision of advanced weaponry and the new bombing aircraft marked a significant shift in Korea's military capabilities, enhancing their preparedness and morale as they prepared to confront the Russian and Qing forces.

"Your Yuvraj Siagu shows his wisdom and commitment to our cause," Emperor Gojong said with sincere gratitude. "The resources he has provided will be invaluable in fortifying our defenses and advancing our efforts on the field. These gifts are more than just weapons; they are a testament to our shared dedication to preserving sovereignty in the face of mounting threats."

General Luna, nodding in agreement, added, "Butuan considers Korea as one of its close's allies in Asia. With these gifts given through the efforts of Yuvraj Siagu, he hopes that Korea will also do its part by supporting the Japanese in defeating Russia and the Qing."

Emperor Gojong smiles and nodded in affirmation while going down to his throne, "Yuvraj Siagu can calm himself and be assured that Korea will do its part in this war," he then patted General Luna's shoulder in a friendly way, "Russia will be gone in Asia at the end of this war and the Qing shall never bother Butuan ever again."

General Luna smiles in response to Emperor Gojong's words, "Your words will reach the ears of my Yuvraj, Your Imperial Majesty."

Emperor Gojong nodded in General Luna's words before the both of them exited the throne hall, tailed by their respective entourage. The both of them made their way to the surrounding of the compound, conversing with each other on many things while exploring the entire compound of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Both were happily conversing with each other, as if both of them are friends.

With his time spend in Hanseong as overseeing foreign general, General Luna have also spent quite an ample amount of time serving Emperor Gojong and the Imperial family of Yi. With his first two years training and supervising the military education of Imperial Prince Yi Kang and other palace guards, while his retinues where training other soldiers of the Empire.

And during those time, General Luna have known each core members of the Imperial family of Korea. He even has most of his time spent with Crown Prince Yeong, the fiancé of Maharajkumari Mahati Alice. Making him able to fully grasp the feeling of Crown Prince Yeong towards Maharajkumari Mahati.

Not to mention that he himself have witnessed how Crown Prince Yeong have been treating Maharajkumari Mahati while in Hanseong to study and immerse herself to be one of the people. Which made him conclude that his liege will be in safe hands after marrying off.

General Luna's action and observation on the treatment given towards Maharajkumari Mahati while in Hanseong were necessary as it is an order form the Maharaja himself. Not to mention that this will be the first time a core member of the Imperial House of Shaja was being married off to a foreign Imperial family.

The two continues their conversation with each other until it was interrupted with Emperor Gojong's ministers, reminding him of his remaining duties, which General Luna fully understood. As General Luna, along with his entourage headed to the exit of the palace.

Seeing the Butuan Empire manufactured Dagitab G2 (Mercedes Simplex) waiting for him outside the compound, General Luna hasten his walk. As one of the few high-ranking officials of the empire, one of the incentives he receives is the access to the government owned automobile, only to be used while in duty.

But before boarding the automobile, General Luna faces his squire and pass an order of sending the words to their counterpart in Tokyo, ensuring that Emperor Meiji will be able to receive the gifts sent by the empire to them. Which the squire complied and made his way towards the nearest telegraphic office.

With a firm nod, General Luna watched his squire head off to fulfil the message, confident that the gifts sent to Emperor Meiji would reach him soon.

Turning to the Dagitab G2, General Luna couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. The vehicle was a symbol of Butuan's commitment to modernization, modeled after the German Mercedes Simplex, but with engineering modifications designed specifically to endure the rugged terrain and tropical climate of Southeast Asia.

The hum of the engine as it started was a reminder of the empire's capability, and as General Luna settled into the comfortable leather seats, he felt both empowered and determined.

The driver, a young lieutenant, glanced back and awaited instructions. General Luna adjusted his cap and said, "To the embassy." The car lurched forward, navigating through the bustling streets as Luna prepared himself for his next strategic briefing.

Few days later, Yuvraj Siagu Alexie of Butuan is currently at one of the orphanages established near the capital to house children abandoned by their parents or those who have lost their parents. The orphanage was established in 1898 under the patronage of Yuvraj Siagu himself. And as its main patron for providing support, Yuvraj Siagu have made promise to visit the orphanage once or twice a year to inspect and see the current situation.

And basing on what Yuvraj Siagu is seeing, all have met his standard he was looking for. Currently, the orphanage, Surya Bhavan Anathashram is located few kilometres away from the heart of Sooraj, occupying 1 acre of land and housing almost 500 children and nuns in the orphanage. The land has its own way of producing its food, buildings that can house children, temple to have the children attend temple services, while they were also being allowed to attend schooling until the grade of 5.

Currently at the office of the headmistress, Prioress Sanya, inspecting the documents regarding the situation of the orphanage. And basing on the documents being thoroughly written, the orphanages have been doing well. Having releases almost a thousand children over the past years of its service, while others have found jobs on their own on mining and manufacture industries of the empire.

Regarding the budget of the orphanage, Yuvraj Siagu have not seen any issue with the current consumption of Yu by the orphanage. Seeing the positive development of the orphanage and its impact to the community, seeing the sudden rise of village around the orphanage shows it help in the area. Yuvraj Siagu could not help it but praise Prioress Sanya herself towards her leadership and administration.

Prioress Sanya looked up from her papers, her face lighting up with a warm smile at the sight of Yuvraj Siagu Alexie. The room was filled with the soft rustling of papers and the distant sounds of children playing, a testament to the vibrant life of the orphanage.

"Yuvraj Siagu," she greeted him respectfully, rising from her chair. "It is always a pleasure to see you. How may I assist you today?"

Yuvraj Siagu waved a hand dismissively, signaling that there was no need for formalities. "I've reviewed the documents, and I must say, the progress here is truly commendable. The growth of the orphanage, the success stories of the children we've helped, and the positive impact on the surrounding community—it's all remarkable."

Prioress Sanya's eyes twinkled with pride. "Thank you. We work diligently to ensure that the children here receive not only the care they need but also the opportunities to build better futures for themselves."

Yuvraj Siagu nodded approvingly. "Your leadership and dedication are evident in every aspect of the orphanage. I am particularly pleased to see that the children are not only being cared for but are also given the tools to become productive members of society. This is exactly what we aimed for when we established Surya Bhavan Anathashram."

He took a moment to walk around the office, his gaze settling on the various documents and records that lined the shelves. "The rise of the surrounding villages and the increased activity in the local industries speak volumes about the positive ripple effects of your work here."

Prioress Sanya inclined her head graciously. "It is a collective effort. The support from the government and the contributions from various patrons have been instrumental. But the true credit goes to the staff and the children themselves, who work hard every day to make the most of their opportunities."

Yuvraj Siagu looked back at her with a thoughtful expression. "Indeed, the staff's dedication and the children's resilience are inspiring. It is important that we continue to support and nurture this success. As you know, we are in challenging times, and it is our responsibility to ensure that the efforts we make today have lasting positive effects."

Prioress Sanya nodded. "We are committed to adapting and growing with the needs of the children and the community. If there are any additional ways we can improve or expand our services, please let us know."

Yuvraj Siagu smiled again, a look of satisfaction on his face. "You are doing an excellent job, Prioress Sanya. I have no doubt that Surya Bhavan Anathashram will continue to thrive under your stewardship. Please keep up the great work, and know that you have my full support."

He extended his hand, and Prioress Sanya shook it with genuine gratitude. "Thank you, Yuvraj Siagu. Your continued support and encouragement mean a great deal to us."

It didn't take long before Prioress Sanya left the room and decided to do other things of great importance, leaving Yuvraj Siagu and Senior Eunuch Radhesh alone inside the room while guards are guarding outside the headmistress office.

Glancing outside, Yuvraj Siagu could see the number of children running joyously around the building, playing tag and other things, genuinely smiling with each other, completely ignorant that in few years' times, their world will completely turn into something else.

With recent developments in the war between Japan and the Russian Empire, Yuvraj Siagu has conveyed his father Maharaja Siagu XV's message to Emperor Gojong, along with Emperor Meiji's request for cooperation against the Russians and the Qing.

As Yuvraj anticipated, Emperor Gojong agreed to cooperate with Japan on the condition that a portion of land in the Manchurian region would fall under the control of the Korean Empire—a term to which the Japanese consented. Acting as both broker and witness to the agreement, Yuvraj Siagu assured Emperor Gojong and Emperor Meiji that Butuan would formally recognize their control over the lands once they were taken from Russian hands.

Meanwhile, Butuanon intelligence forces stationed in Hainan, Taiwan, and Korea continually intercepted and monitored wireless and telegraph cable traffic related to the war, sharing the information with the Japanese. In return, the Japanese shared intelligence on Russia with the Butuanon, with one Butuanon official remarking on the "exceptional quality" of Japanese intelligence.

In particular, Butuanon and Japanese intelligence gathered substantial evidence that Britain was supporting Russia in the war as part of a bid to disrupt the balance of power in Asia and weakening Butuan's influence in the region. This revelation led Yuvraj Siagu to reconsider his plans for an alliance with the Germans in the impending world war.

Yuvraj Siagu thought that with the death of Rasputin, Tsar Nicholas II will cower in fear and will halt the war and willingly negotiate with the Japanese. But instead, Yuvraj Siagu received a different outcome that he hopes for. As few weeks ago, Yuvraj Siagu receives a letter from Empress Dowager Maria informing him of the decision made by her son towards the trajectory of the war.

Which infuriated Yuvraj Siagu to his core, causing him to almost severe the Butuan Empire's ties with Russia and declaring it as their eternal enemy. But his anger where halted as the second part of the letter stated that Empress Dowager Maria seeks the assistance of Butuan in overthrowing her son from the throne and be replaced by her as the Tsarina of Russia and be succeeded by her own grandson, Tsarevich Alexie of Russia.

This came a surprise for Yuvraj Siagu himself as this shows that Russia is developing on a different path, influenced by his intervention since the birth of Grand Duchess Olga. This made Yuvraj Siagu reconsidered his decision on abandoning the Romanov with the request from Empress Dowager Maria.

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.