Chapter 54 Offer of the Dowager

--- Imperial Prince Sharvil, Duke of Cebu POV ---

--- Inside the Yiluan Hall ---

--- 14th of March 1897 ----

Due to the contributions made by the late Empress Ananya Priya Meera during her husband's 35-year reign from 1815 to 1850, she significantly increased the life expectancy of the people. Life expectancy rose from a mere 65 years to 89 years, with some individuals even reaching the age of a hundred. Empress Ananya Priya Meera passed away in 1875 at the age of 90, having been born in 1785.

Her significant contributions to the nation's medical field continued to impact the empire's healthcare system, benefiting people in contemporary times. The proliferation of hospitals across the empire became an integral part of daily life for both the populace and aspiring medical students. In recognition of her contributions, the Council of Palawan elevated her to sainthood in 1880, a decision promptly approved by my father.

The Saint Ananya Priya Temple, situated in the barangay Obrero (Obrero Village), a short distance from the city center, stands as a testament to her revered status as a saint. This temple was constructed in her honor. Her and Emperor Yash II's ashes were interred in the Imperial Family mausoleum at Victory Square, the resting place for all members of the Imperial Clan, especially the tomb of Rajah Siagu II.

In accordance with their wish to remain together, my great-grandmother's cherished bible and Aylashanism cross, along with her husband's beloved kampilan, were placed at the Saint Ananya Priya Temple. This temple, standing proudly near the riverbanks, has evolved into the primary place of worship in the barangay.

To honor her contributions, a festival named the "Saint Ananya Priya Meera's Healing Jubilee" is celebrated annually on the 15th of July, the day of her birth. It's a joyful celebration filled with goodwill and happiness.

"So, how was the visit?" She inquired, wearing a broad smile while sipping her tea.

Her words grounded me back in reality as I recalled details about my great-grandmother, Empress Ananya Priya Meera.

"It was a pleasure, Empress Dowager. Though things haven't unfolded as anticipated, I trust the emperor will make the right decision in due course," I expressed confidently.

"I see… My nephew will navigate this in his own way. By the way, please address me as Dowager Cixi rather than Empress Dowager. I've long shed the role of an empress. I'm merely a relic of this Empire now under my nephew's control," she replied, signaling her ladies-in-waiting for something.

"Understood, Dowager Cixi," I replied, taking a moment before continuing. "I sincerely hope the emperor and his ministers can reach a resolution swiftly."

"Hehehe… I'm certain they will. But I'm intrigued by your confidence in defeating the Japanese Empire in a war. Over the years, the Japanese naval force has grown stronger, and it wouldn't surprise me if they dominate the region soon. I'm curious where your nation draws such confidence," she inquired, slyly eyeing us.

A smile formed on my face as I regarded her. Quite a sly woman, indeed. Praising her enemy despite her obvious reaction of disdain and anger.

"The Butuanon Imperial Army will prevail against the Japanese. That's a certainty, Dowager Cixi," I replied with a smile, avoiding direct mention of our military developments, particularly the airplanes I oversee.

A smile graces Dowager Cixi's face as she listens to my response. Our conversation continues, weaving through the ordinary tasks and chores we've tackled over the years. She inquires about my family, particularly my daughter and son, subtly suggesting the prospect of a union between my daughter and one of their family's princes. I respond with a polite smile and a word of gratitude.

While I'm not opposed to the idea of my daughter marrying, I hold reservations about her marrying into the Aisin-Gioro Clan. This clan comprises individuals who, during the Mongol Empire's peak, were unable to conquer our lands and are viewed by me as barbarians. I'd prefer my daughter to marry a local noble or someone from Siam, Joseon, or even nobles from the Spanish Empire, British Empire, or the Empire of Russia, rather than aligning with the Aisin-Gioro Clan.

Despite historical tensions between our nation and Europe, I can't deny the significant impact Europeans have had on shaping Butuanon society. Their contributions in science, mathematics, military strategies, and technology have immensely fueled our nation's economy. The introduction of electricity, especially, has illuminated the streets and homes of our major cities, contributing to our progress and development.

Nevertheless, the lifestyle of these Qing people may share some similarities with ours, but their nomadic history not to mention their continual barbaric attitude and potential threat to our nation must be taken into account. There's also the looming concern of my daughter potentially becoming a hostage bride to the Qing Dynasty if relations between our countries sour and may lead to conflict.

As our conversation meanders through everyday topics, we eventually circle back to the primary reason for our visit. While our need for this nation's neutrality in the upcoming war might not be paramount, it wouldn't hurt to have them as observers rather than adversaries. Dowager Cixi's influence becomes pivotal in making this a reality. Her sway over the Qing Imperial Court holds the key to swaying the emperor and his ministers towards accepting this 'deal'.

Moreover, despite her assertions of retiring from her role as regent of this nation, her control remains considerably more stable than that of the emperor. The prospect of her overthrowing the emperor seems improbable at present, as it would necessitate complete support from the military and ministers, which, based on the documents Minister Weijun and I perused last night, she still lacks.

"I must admit, Imperial Prince Sharvil, you possess a talent for persuading others to your cause," she remarks, sipping her tea with a smile.

"I'll take that as a compliment, Dowager Cixi. My mother and grandmother imparted valuable lessons on the art of persuasion," I reply, tinged with a hint of pride.

"I see. Empress Consort Kumari Yuurani and Empress Consort Saraswati had a profound influence on shaping who you are today. Despite the unrefined and debouche attituted their husbands have displayed in both personal and governing your nation, they remained devoted mothers and grandmothers to you and your siblings," she remarked with a smile.

However, the mention of my ancestors strikes a chord. While acknowledging their role in the nation's economic struggles, notably Emperor Siagu XIII, they are still my forefathers. Allowing their reputation to be maligned by a foreign individual would be an affront to my dignity.

Family discussions about our ancestors' actions might carry different tones, but it's unacceptable for a foreigner to speak disrespectfully of them. Though she holds the title of Dowager Empress, she no longer retains the authority of the reigning Empress.

"You're right, Dowager Cixi; they indeed imparted valuable lessons," I said, pausing momentarily to sip my tea. "On another note, Dowager, it seems there's an increasing presence of foreigners in your nation, especially in the regions under their influence," I mentioned, maintaining a courteous demeanor.

The Dowager's previously cheerful countenance turned into an expression of annoyance and discomfort. It's a reminder of the consequences of belittling my father and grandfather.

It's a sobering realization, isn't it? Confronting the reality that this once powerful empire is now the subject of interest for stronger foreign nations. Even after the recent war with the Qing, the Japanese empire managed to gain control of Weihai, and Formosa fell under their authority.

Following a moment of silence between us, Dowager Cixi composed herself and resumed her smile before speaking again.

"Hmm... It's undeniable that foreigners, or these outsiders, have been increasingly active, displaying their desire to dominate our nation. But their presence won't endure for long. Ultimately, any outsider intruding upon our land must be eliminated or forcibly removed, just like an insect encroaching on territory that isn't its own," she asserted.

It appears she has devised a strategy concerning these foreigners on our land. Well, it's not surprising. No owner, regardless of what they possess, would willingly share their most valuable possession with others, especially those who don't belong.

"I understand. Seems like the man has grown tired of the swarm of pests devouring his resources, huh?" I remark jokingly, to which she responds with a smile.

Despite the Qing Dynasty being both vulnerable and heavily populated, it's not a nation characterized by peace and tolerance. Throughout its thousand-year history, this nation has seen numerous rulers and dynasties, yet they all share one common trait: a disdain for sharing.

It seems they're on the brink of taking action and exploding. However, what troubles me is the absence of reports from our people, the Siamese ambassadors, and even the Joseon ambassadors regarding this matter. It seems they've managed to keep this a secret until today when she revealed it to us.

Hold on... Don't tell me...

"Your Imperial Highness..." Minister Weijun voices his concern.

"I'm aware," I respond with utter seriousness.

I might not excel in negotiations, despite what the Dowager claims. However, I'm not naive enough to overlook the reason behind her disclosing this information in front of me and my associates. I won't uphold my position as one of the most important figures in the military solely due to my background as an Imperial Prince; that's not how the traditions of the Butuanon people function.

Her decision to disclose this to me at this moment implies something significant, and I'm not optimistic about what that might be.

I waited for a moment, observing her and her companions' reactions. Instead of reacting, they continued with their tasks. Dowager Cixi even resumed sipping her tea, wearing a satisfied expression.

Unable to restrain myself any longer, I finally yielded and spoke up.

"What is it that you desire from us, then?" I asked with full seriousness, facing her, while behind me stood my people, all with serious expressions.

"Oh? Have we moved on from discussing nonsense things then?" she remarked mockingly. "Hehehehe. Your serious demeanor makes me want to tease you more, Imperial Prince Sharvil."

"Thank you for that, but I must respectfully decline any attempts at teasing me," I replied bluntly, causing her to smile even more. Tsk. "Please articulate what you want so that I can promptly discuss this with my brother, the emperor."

I am aware that this will kickstart the real discussion about the negotiations, and I cannot waste time on trivial matters. Every second is crucial. As the representative of the Imperial Clan of Shaja and the Imperial government of Butuan, my words in this situation also represent my nation's stance.

Every aspect must be carefully weighed before engaging with this woman and considering any potential agreements. As the mastermind behind this nation, manipulating the emperor into a puppet without his awareness, she is a formidable force to contend with.

"Hmmm… You're no fun when you're serious, Imperial Prince Sharvil," she replied with a full smile, while I simply maintained my gaze on her. A few seconds later, she continued.

"Fine, it seems you and your people are truly eager to hear my offer. If you wish to know, then I shall tell you. I want you and your nation to support me and my men in our fight against the Western Countries," she stated with seriousness and a smile.

Her words gave me pause, requiring a moment to fully digest the extent of her plan. Support her and her allies against the Western countries? Is she recklessly daring? While Butuan is confident in confronting the British, French, and Germans individually in a conflict, we aren't foolish enough to take them all on simultaneously.

The sheer military might of the British Empire alone could reduce Butuan's current military prowess to mere ashes. Factor in facing the leading European powers in terms of military strength, and both Butuan and the Qing dynasty would stand little chance.

Let's entertain the idea that we agree with her statement; the probability of defeating those Western nations barely scrapes 40%. Their colonial powers alone could easily crush us in battle. Not to mention, Britain commands total dominance over the world's seas. With our current military technology, engaging them would spell a catastrophe for the people of Butuan and the Qing.

"Uhm… If I may, Your Imperial Majesty, could you elaborate on that?" Minister Weijun interjects after a minute of silence from our side following Dowager Cixi's declaration.

"Hmm… No need to worry. I understand that this proposal has shocked you all, and it should. What I propose is your nation's support in our struggle against the nations occupying our lands and extending their influence over our people. I have no qualms about the port cities currently leased to these countries, as they contribute to our nation's income. What concerns me and my allies is their continuous effort to expand their influence beyond those leased port cities under their control," she explains calmly, never failing to surprise me.

As a woman who has navigated numerous conspiracies while ruling over a vast dynasty, discussing something as monumental as declaring war and seeking cooperation with a potential adversary can only be done by a seasoned ruler unafraid to confront the world for the sole purpose of safeguarding her people's interests.

"Oh? Supporting you against the Western Countries? Aren't you worried about offending them? Let alone Emperor Guangxu. You won't just face the Western Countries but the emperor himself as your adversary. Your battle will come from various directions. The heavens might be on your side, but will the people?" I respond calmly.

If there's one thing I've learned from interacting with the Dowager, it's her preference for blunt truth over comforting lies. Her conversational demeanor favors direct confrontation over pointless discourse, a trait I admire as I share a similar disposition.

"Scared? Hahahaha! You must be kidding, Imperial Prince Sharvil, if you think I'd be afraid of such questions. I wouldn't have reached my current position if fear had any hold over me. Sure, I used to be scared of everything when I was a child, but that's all in the past now. I've grown beyond that. Everything within this Dynasty is under my control; nothing escapes my attention," she declared, taking a bite of a grape offered by her lady-in-waiting before continuing.

"The emperor's power hinges on me... I hope you understand that, my dear Imperial Prince. His emperorship pales in comparison to my influence over his people and this nation. In essence, I wield much more power and influence than him. That naive child even tried to resist my plan for him to marry my niece, futile as it was.

His position would mean nothing if I ever decided to remove him from the throne. His sole purpose now is to shield me from direct involvement in this nation's affairs, although he may not even realize it.

The ambassadors and ministers from Siam and Joseon must have briefed you, showing that it was the emperor who held complete control over the Qing Dynasty's court, correct?" she asked, with a hint of pride and confidence, after successfully convincing me of her apparent disengagement from the nation's affairs.

Seeing her expression filled me with irritation, realizing I'd believed those reports without considering their potential deception. It was a stark reminder of how formidable her connections within the dynasty truly were. Even Emperor Guangxu remained oblivious, dancing on his aunt's puppet strings.

"So, your people deliberately facilitated the access to classified information, fooling the populace and foreign delegates alike? Was it a ruse?" I asked calmly, to which she responded with an even wider smile, brimming with pride and arrogance.

"Exactly! Hahahaha! People are easily swayed by such misinformation. Anyway, I'm well aware that neither I nor my associates alone are sufficient to confront the nations eyeing our mighty dynasty. Their hunger to overpower us is as clear as a lion eyeing a gazelle.

Their military and technological advancements surpass ours, and they might even match us in manpower. Hence, I propose a cooperation—support in our struggle against the West," she concluded her earlier statement.

What kind of support are we talking about here, and what advantages would our nation gain by aligning with this Dynasty? Is it worth risking the ire of Western powers just to support this nation? These questions swirled in my mind until Minister Weijun's voice interrupted my thoughts.

"Your Imperial Highness, consider your response carefully. Negotiations take time and cannot be rushed. Before making a decision, all parties must understand the terms to avoid any imbalance," he advised in a composed tone, prompting me to think more thoroughly before replying to Dowager Empress Cixi's proposal for cooperation.

"What exactly does this 'cooperation' entail, Dowager Empress Cixi?" I inquired after a brief pause.

"In return for our cooperation, we offer the official transfer of the Island of Formosa, known as Taiwan in your country, and the Island of Hainan to your nation without opposition. Additionally, we propose the reestablishment of diplomatic relations, our nation's declaration of neutrality in your conflict with Japan, and the signing of an exclusive trade agreement between the Qing Dynasty and the Butuan Empire," she stated firmly.

"In exchange for these benefits, we seek your nation's support through arms provision and military training. Moreover, at a critical juncture, during the war, we request your nation's military backing, including a declaration of war against the Western nations," she concluded with a serious yet composed demeanor.