Chapter 82

--- 20th of April 1897 ---

--- 3rd Person POV ---

--- Imperial Complex ---

As Emperor Siagu XV comprehended the implications behind President Faure's words, a knowing smile graced his lips, and he inclined his head thoughtfully. "Indeed," he murmured, "everything must undergo change. However, not all replacements are deserving of the positions once held by their predecessors. Meticulously crafted engravings cannot be simply replaced by mere trinkets; they offer a depth and significance that cannot be replicated by the new." And with that, he left his words hanging in the air, a poignant reminder of the irreplaceable essence lost in the winds of change.

With each passing moment, the weight in the room seemed to grow, pressing down on the courtiers and musicians alike, as if a heavy burden had settled upon them. Yet, amidst this palpable tension, President Faure and Emperor Siagu XV remained outwardly composed, their demeanor belying the mounting pressure.

Unbeknownst to the onlookers, however, President Faure harbored a growing sense of irritation from the very outset of Emperor Siagu XV's words. His visit to Butuan held a singular purpose, one that transcended mere social niceties: to mend the diplomatic rift between Butuan and France. This intent had been underscored by President Faure's actions, from his support for Butuan during its conflict with Japan to his physical presence amidst the turmoil of war.

The threat of Butuan gaining more lands after the war with the Japanese did not truly concern President Faure and his ministers. To him, Butuan posed no significant threat to France. Having previously been defeated by France, President Faure held the belief that Butuan stood little chance against his nation, regardless of the extent of its territorial control. Consequently, offering support to Butuan held no weight in President Faure's considerations.

President Faure's visit to Butuan and its emperor served a dual purpose: to assert his nation's dominance and to clarify Butuan's understanding of French Indochina's status as part of France's dominion, distinct from Butuan or Siam. Tired of persistent incursions by Butuan and Siamese soldiers patrolling and clashing within French Indochina, President Faure embarked on this journey to convey his message directly to the leaders of both countries.

Having previously met with King Chulalongkorn of Siam, President Faure couldn't deny the decency and civilized demeanor exhibited by the monarch, despite his own prejudices and belittlement towards what he termed a "backward" realm. Observing the amicable relationship between Britain and Siam, President Faure anticipated that negotiations with the Siamese king would be straightforward. 

President Faure found himself unable to secure a satisfactory outcome from his visit to Siam and the negotiations with the Siamese King. His refusal to acknowledge the reality that French Indochina belonged to the French Republic left him disheartened. Departing from Siam, he journeyed to Butuan, holding onto hope for a more fruitful discussion.

Yet, in Butuan, President Faure faced a similar challenge. The Emperor of Butuan proved to be just as resolute and unyielding as the Siamese King. Reflecting on the situation, President Faure couldn't help but mull over the curious bond between the two rulers.

'No wonder they are such good friends,' he remarked quietly to himself, observing Emperor Siagu XV across the table, as he delicately sipped on his cup of Butuanon traditional tea.

Despite President Faure's reluctance, he refuses to yield. Diplomacy may not sway the Emperor and King of Butuan and Siam, but President Faure still sees suppression through battle as a viable option. However, what holds him back is the intricate web of connections between Butuan, Russia, and the United Kingdom. Moreover, the specter of German expansion looms ominously over Europe, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

Emperor Siagu XV, on the other hand, shares President Faure's frustration. His irritation stems from a sense of pride and self-importance, making him feel belittled by President Faure's actions. Despite his own irritation, Emperor Siagu XV restrains himself, understanding that expressing his anger could escalate tensions further.

Aware of the impending conflict over what the French call French Indochina, Emperor Siagu XV knows that engaging in another war is risky. With the ongoing conflict against the Japanese, where Butuanon forces and Joseon rebels make significant gains, Emperor Siagu XV cannot afford to divert his attention and resources to another front.

While 80% of Taiwan's territory fell under the control of Butuan, with the Japanese asserting dominance over key townships like Shinko, Chosokei, and the indigenous stronghold of Giran-Cho, tensions brewed on the horizon.

Emperor Siagu XV, mindful of the delicate balance of power, hesitated to engage in conflict with the French forces. He understood that prematurely stretching his army's resources would only invite defeat, a fate he was determined to avoid at all costs. In his wisdom, Siagu XV believed in the principle of timing in warfare, knowing that patience often bore greater fruits than rash action.

Yet, even as he weighed the risks and benefits of each move on the geopolitical chessboard, his gaze extended beyond the immediate theater of conflict. Siagu XV turned his attention towards the distant shores of Papua, a land under the Dutch dominion. Collaborating closely with his trusted advisors, Prime Minister Aguinaldo and Foreign Minister Li Hongyi, envoys were dispatched to Batavia, the capital of the Dutch East Indies.

Their mission: to negotiate with Governor-General Cornelis Pijnacker Hordijk for a mutually beneficial arrangement. However, the journey to securing a favorable outcome proved fraught with unforeseen challenges, causing a significant delay in Siagu XV's plans—a reminder that even the best-laid strategies could falter in the face of uncertainty.

Originally, Emperor Siagu XV, Prime Minister Aguinaldo, and Foreign Minister Li Honyi had hoped to negotiate a deal with Governor-General Hordijk a few months ago. However, the Aguinaldo government's attention shifted to other primary focuses, causing a delay in sending envoys to Batavia. With the recent departure, Prime Minister Aguinaldo and Foreign Minister Li Honyi could only hope that the negotiation would run smoothly.

"But anyway," Emperor Siagu XV inquired with curiosity, "I heard that you once visited my good friend Rama V in Bangkok. How was the visit?"

A smile formed on President Faure's face before he placed the tea back on the table. "It was a wonderful visit to Bangkok, to say the least. I was able to enjoy many things and even broaden my horizons on some matters... despite my intentions not being fully conveyed to the good king."

"Really? And what might those intentions of your Mr. President be? If you don't mind my asking, I am shocked to hear that my good friend would not accept nor understand your intentions," inquired Emperor Saigu XV, his confusion evident.

President Faure smiled. "Ah, yes, you may. It is not a secret, to say the least, and besides, this is also my purpose for coming here."

"Hmmm? Now, I am interested," chimed Emperor Siagu XV.

"Well, peace is what ensures stability and prosperity in our respective nations. It is what makes our world harmonious and worth living in. And I know for a fact that you and I both understand that peace is what we both badly need, especially at this time for your nation..." President Faure began his speech cautiously, wary of upsetting the Emperor of Butuan and jeopardizing their negotiations. "The Japanese might be a weaker and smaller nation than yours, but we both know they have been a thorn in your side for the past weeks."

Emperor Siagu XV nodded in agreement, his expression reflecting the weight of generations of unresolved grievances. "Indeed. Those Japanese people have been bothering me for years, occupying lands that rightfully belong to us, the Butuanons."

As Emperor Siagu XV paused, President Faure felt a twinge of irritation. The Emperor's words effectively challenged France's control in Southeast Asia, complicating President Faure's plans. Yet, amidst the frustration, a glimmer of opportunity emerged. The Butuan-Japanese conflict could serve as leverage for President Faure's strategic maneuvers.

"Our struggle against the Japanese may be prolonged, as they have yet to unleash their full force. But our Butuanon soldiers are more than capable," Emperor Siagu XV proclaimed with pride.

President Faure, representing not only France but also the broader Western interests, voiced his concerns. "It's heartening to hear, Emperor Siagu. However, the French public, along with other Western nations, harbors doubts about the ongoing conflict between you and the Japanese. The growing worries over regional stability and peace demand a ceasefire, allowing trade to flow unhindered." His tone carried the weight of diplomatic urgency, signaling the need for resolution beyond mere military triumphs.

"Any concerns?" Emperor Siagu XV scowled, his tone edged with determination. "You and I, Mr. President, understand that the conflict between Butuan and Japan is in its infancy. While our forces may currently hold the upper hand in battle and we are confident of eventual victory, that does not grant me the luxury of halting our advance to cater to your immediate needs... We've waited for centuries to reclaim what is rightfully ours. We've bided our time for this perfect opportunity to realize our aspirations. And we do not intend to relent until the rights of the Butuanons to that land are secured," the Emperor concluded firmly.

His words hung heavily in the air, casting the room into a profound silence. President Faure found himself unable to counter Emperor Siagu XV's impassioned declaration. Head Eunuch Isagani and Head Court Lady Putri Chaya, meanwhile, felt a swell of pride in their leader's unwavering commitment to their nation's cause — the conquest of Taiwan and the reunification of their ancestral lands. 

The conversation languished momentarily, drifting into what might seem trivial to some but were crucial nuances in the realm of diplomacy.

As the discourse between President Faure and Emperor Siagu XV delved deeper, nearly an hour had elapsed since the meeting began. Emperor Siagu XV, prompted by a discreet reminder from Head Eunuch Isagani of the time, realized the duration of their engagement. With resolve, he decided it was time to cut to the chase.

"Stop with the unnecessary topic, Mr. President. You and I know what you really came in here for." Emperor Siagu XV blurted out not wanting to further chase the talk with unnecessary things, which caught the people inside the room off-guard.

"Hays. As you said. My main goal is for your nation and the nation of Siam to halt unnecessary and unlawful activities at the borders of French Indochina." President Faure firmly stated not backing down with Emperor Siagu XV's presence.

For years of being a public minister and serving the government of French Empire and now as president of France through 'democratic' election. President Faure have seen leaders and ministers with different temperaments and knew already how to handle them, where to backdown and where to move forward.

Handling the Emperor of Butuan should be taken in a much more aggressive stage. A person whom have not liked the unnecessary conversations to last much longer. This is what President Faure thought about Emperor Siagu XV himself.

"Mr. President, what do you mean by 'unlawful activities'?" Emperor Siagu XV queried with a furrowed brow. "Our men stationed at the borders between the Champa Region and your French Indochina settlements have committed no such transgressions. All activities conducted in that area adhere strictly to the boundaries delineating our respective nations. Your accusations seem founded more in delusion than reality."

President Faure's response was firm. "Your soldiers were apprehended three months ago for unlawfully crossing into French Indochina, disregarding the warnings issued by our forces in the region. It could have escalated into a conflict if not for the swift intervention of one of our lieutenants. French Indochina is an integral part of the French Republic, acquired through legitimate means."

Emperor Siagu XV, instead of displaying anger, maintained a composed demeanor, his lips curling into a knowing grin. "Your soldiers' provocations and taunts led to our forces from Champa crossing the border. While your perspective may be informed by your military, the truth of the matter aligns more closely with my account. I invite you, Mr. President, to inquire among the people of the region. Their testimony will corroborate what I have stated."

President Faure found himself disheartened by the interaction with Emperor Siagu XV, who seemed offended by his words. While outwardly confident, the Emperor harbored growing irritation, eager to conclude the conversation due to his discomfort in President Faure's presence.

As the dialogue centered on the situation in French Indochina and the Champa Region, President Faure pressed for a response regarding what he termed as 'unlawful activities' by Butuanon soldiers. However, Emperor Siagu XV remained steadfast in denying any wrongdoing by Butuan forces, citing the perceived threat posed by local soldiers in French Indochina.

In an attempt to address Emperor Siagu XV's concerns, President Faure reassured him that once Butuan ceased its activities, French-commanded soldiers would likewise cease their harassment in the Champa Region. He even proposed mediating between Butuan and Japan to achieve a ceasefire if Butuan withdrew its forces from the borders.

Rather than receiving acceptance, President Faure's offer was met with disdain and mockery from Emperor Siagu XV. The Emperor asserted Butuan's autonomy in managing its domestic and foreign affairs, dismissing the need for external mediation. This response left President Faure feeling further unsettled and frustrated, signaling a strained relationship between the two leaders.

Head Eunuch Isagani and Head Court Lady Putri Chaya, stalwart figures in the emperor's court, seethed with dissatisfaction and offense at President Faure's words. Despite their urge to unleash uncivilized retorts, they maintained their decorum, wary of inviting the emperor's disfavor. Instead, they vented their ire in private, directing curses and mockery towards the French President.

As President Faure's efforts for peace in French Indochina faltered, hope seemed elusive. However, Emperor Siagu XV unexpectedly extended an offer, a glimmer of hope amid the darkness. For President Faure, prioritizing stability over territorial expansion became paramount, particularly in the wake of the recent coup against the Bonaparte Dynasty, which plunged the empire into turmoil.

President Faure now faced an unwanted predicament: a conflict beyond France's borders. His diplomatic endeavors took him to the frontiers of French colonies, especially those with strained relations. The most perilous of these situations lay at the border between Butuan and Siam, where tensions ran highest. Thus, when Emperor Siagu XV proposed conditions for peace with Butuan, President Faure eagerly awaited the terms, knowing they could hold the key to stability in the region.

"Butuan will withdraw 38.05 kilometers (23.65 mi) from the border of Champa and French Indochina, encompassing the provinces of Thu Dau Mot, Bien Hoa, Phan Thiet, Tay Ninh, Tan An, Chaudoc, and Hatien, and will halt all activities within these territories. Consequently, troops from your side and local inhabitants stationed along the borders of French Indochina, covering the provinces of Kampot, Takeo, Phnom Penh, Prey Veng, Svai Rieng, Kompong Cham, Kratie, Ban Me Thout, Dalat, and part of Phan Thiet currently under its jurisdiction, must also retreat 38.05 kilometers (23.65 mi) from the border, refraining from any engagements in the region.

There will be no initiation of offensive actions unless Butuan's forces and civilians come under attack by the opposing soldiers. This same principle applies to the other party as well. This, Mr. President, is the condition Butuan insists upon for relations with your nation," declared Emperor Siagu XV with unwavering determination, signaling the end of negotiation on this matter as he gestured towards the rough map of mainland Southeast Asia laid out on the table by Head Eunuch Isagani, leaving an air of finality in the room.

Despite hearing what he desired, President Faure remained composed yet conflicted regarding whether to accept the conditions set forth by Emperor Siagu XV to resolve the border clashes in French Indochina and the Champa Region of Butuan. While it was imperative for President Faure to secure peace in this colonial territory of the French Empire, he found it unacceptable for his own country to be placed at a disadvantage.

Instead of immediately responding to Emperor Siagu XV's offer, President Faure chose to maintain silence, pondering the emperor's proposition.

This decision was received favorably by Emperor Siagu XV himself, who recognized that his offer was under consideration. It was a positive sign for the emperor, who was already embroiled in numerous affairs. Presenting this offer to the President of France was a considerable stretch, but if France were to agree, both nations would experience some setbacks, ultimately benefiting Butuan.

It took nearly ten minutes of contemplation for President Faure to assess the situation thoroughly. He carefully weighed the ramifications of retreating 76.1 kilometers (47.3 mi) away from the borders, essentially abandoning that stretch of land, all in the pursuit of regional peace.

"Are you proposing the demilitarization of the 76.1 kilometers (47.3 mi) of borderland?" President Faure inquired, seeking further clarification.

Emperor Siagu XV, however, exuded confidence as he smiled, "Indeed. This stretch of 76.1 kilometers (47.3 mi) will serve as the new boundary between our nations. It shall remain uninhabited by human settlements. Existing settlements within 38.05 kilometers (23.65 mi) from each side will be abandoned to mitigate future conflicts."

President Faure, disheartened by the suggestion, muttered in discontent, "Such a waste of land for such a trivial matter." His words went unheard by those present in the room, prompting no further discourse from Emperor Siagu XV.

Silence enveloped President Faure once more as music wafted through the air, weaving a tapestry of tranquility amidst the gathered courtiers. His gaze lingered on the map of mainland Southeast Asia, his mind grappling with the myriad complexities of preparation.

Addressing Emperor Siagu XV, President Faure raised an eyebrow, voicing his concern, "And what of the situation in Siam?"

Emperor Siagu XV's response was firm and unequivocal, "Siam has its own ruler, beyond my dominion. Your concerns with Siam should be directed there, not here in Butuan."

Behind his serious demeanor, Emperor Siagu XV harbored ambitions for expansion into mainland Asia. Yet, he held fast to his principles, recognizing the sovereignty of his allies. King Rama V of Siam commanded respect in Emperor Siagu XV's eyes, a sentiment he held dearly. To betray such a bond would be the height of cowardice, a path Emperor Siagu XV was unwilling to tread. Loyalty, after all, held greater value than mere ambition.

After grasping President Faure's proposal, Emperor Siagu XV promptly quashed the idea, unwilling to progress toward a resolution.

President Faure, outwardly composed with smiles and laughter upon hearing the Emperor's words, concealed a turmoil within. Deep down, he harbored regret, recognizing that his misstep might have ignited a conflict between the closely allied nations of Asia: Siam and Butuan. By inadvertently challenging the sovereignty of one, he had played the wrong card at the wrong time.

"But may I ask, Your Majesty, if you have the authority to negotiate on this matter? With all due respect, if such negotiations proceed, what then becomes the role of your ministers?" President Faure inquired, his tone tinged with uncertainty and concern.

But instead of being answered by Emperor Siagu XV. Emperor Siagu XV only gave the French President a meaningful smile. Hinting that what President Faure speculated is true and without a doubt reality.

With this, President Faure realizes that the Empire of Butuan is not under the hand of the people but is still under the hand of one sole individual who has the power of almost everything in the lands of the empire. And that man is none other than Emperor Siagu XV himself, the man in front of President Faure.