Chapter 88

--- 4th of June 1897 ---

--- 3rd Person POV ---

--- Imperial City in Sooraj ---

"Seja Siagu, I believe Joseon has customs different from those of Butuan. While Seja Yeong may marry your sister in a few years, this does not mean he will be raised according to your nation's customs and rules for royals," Court Lady Eun-sook replied arrogantly, undeterred by Crown Prince Siagu's attempt at intimidation.

Court Lady Eun-sook's confidence in addressing Crown Prince Siagu stemmed from her position. She had been placed as a court lady to discipline Crown Prince Yeong by the command of King Gojong, acting on the suggestion of her master, Royal Consort Jang of the Deoksu Jang Clan.

Royal Consort Jang, who harbored hostility towards the young Crown Prince Yeong due to her desire for her own son, Prince Uihwa, to inherit the throne of Joseon, assigned Court Lady Eun-sook to Crown Prince Yeong. Her role was to serve as a spy and to secretly manipulate and abuse the young crown prince, in the hope that he would perish before he could inherit the throne.

Court Lady Eun-sook initially resisted the command of Royal Consort Jang. However, when Royal Consort Jang promised her a higher position within the household upon successfully placing her son on the throne, Court Lady Eun-sook's resolve wavered. Blinded by greed and the prospect of elevating her social standing, she eventually acquiesced to Jang's demands and began to torment the young Crown Prince Yeong.

At first, Court Lady Eun-sook's actions were minor, but over time they escalated. Her confidence in tormenting the crown prince grew, especially after King Gojong and Prince Uihwa left for Joseon to rally the support of the people. With their absence, Court Lady Eun-sook felt emboldened and unafraid.

Eunuch Ji-Hwan and the other courtiers of Crown Prince Yeong were shocked and incredulous upon hearing Court Lady Eun-sook's words. They could hardly believe her arrogance in speaking so dismissively about Yuvraj Siagu, the heir and the second most powerful person in the entire Butuan Empire.

Cold sweats and a slight discomfort crept over Eunuch Ji-Hwan and the others. The thought of being dragged off for punishment due to Court Lady Eun-sook's careless words filled their minds. This prompted Eunuch Ji-Hwan and the others to cast subtle glares at Court Lady Eun-sook, silently cursing her and hoping they wouldn't suffer because of her.

Senior Eunuch Radhesh, Senior Court Lady Mei Ying, Eunuch Tạ Quang, Court Lady Puteri Azura, and the other courtiers and imperial household guards accompanying Yuvraj Siagu also glared at Court Lady Eun-sook. A chill ran down her spine as she sensed the malice from those around her, causing her to scan her surroundings in dread.

As greed and confidence cloud her judgment, Court Lady Eun-sook forgets she is addressing the heir of a foreign nation—one much more powerful than her own. She and her masters seek refuge in Butuan, yet she fails to grasp the gravity of her situation.

With disgust and irritation evident on his face, Yuvraj Siagu coldly regards Court Lady Eun-sook while protectively shielding the young Crown Prince Yeong with his arms. "Huh?! A mere courtier dares to reprimand me, a Crown Prince, on what I must say and teach my future brother-in-law? Has the world turned upside down that you, a mere servant, think yourself my equal?"

Yuvraj Siagu paused for a moment, observing Court Lady Eun-sook's reaction before continuing, "Radhesh... As someone of lower status than me and Yeong, what do you think is the appropriate punishment for this person?"

Fear finally reaching its limit, Court Lady Eun-sook instantly prostrated herself on the ground, trembling as she begged Yuvraj Siagu for forgiveness. Even the courtiers accompanying Crown Prince Yeong prostrated in fear, pushing all the blame onto Court Lady Eun-sook. This only made her shake more in terror and discomfort.

Radhesh, with full respect and a serious expression, replied, "Your Highness, in accordance with the rules of the empire and the imperial family, the act of Court Lady Eun-sook warrants a punishment of sixty lashes."

Fear gripped Court Lady Eun-sook after hearing the words of Senior Eunuch Radhesh. The other courtiers who accompanied Crown Prince Yeong began cursing and condemning Court Lady Eun-sook on their heads, afraid of being included on the punishment. 

"Heh! Drag this woman out of the city, and I forbid her from ever setting foot here again. Enact the punishment for disrespecting a member of the Imperial House," Yuvraj Siagu commanded, mockingly staring at Court Lady Eun-sook while shielding Crown Prince Yeong behind him, "I don't want to have this lowly woman staining the ground of the imperial city. A lowborn must not bite its master's hand."

"No, please! Don't take me! Forgive me, Your Highness!" Court Lady Eun-sook stammered, her voice shaking with terror as two Imperial Household Guards dragged her away. "Let go of me! Don't you know who I am?! I am a court lady serving Crown Prince Yeong! Get your filthy arms off me! Seja!!" She struggled desperately, her eyes wide with shock and fear.

Yuvraj Siagu, not wanting to dwell on the distressing scene, continued his walk with Crown Prince Yeong by his side. With this rare moment of free time, he chose to spend an hour or two with the Crown Prince, eager to understand and influence the future husband of his sister.

In his past life, Yuvraj Siagu had read about the incompetence of the Korean monarchy before World War I, which led to its downfall. This was similar to the situation with the Qing Dynasty, which had resisted Western doctrines out of fear that national identity and cultural heritage would be replaced by Western ideologies. Although this reluctance was understandable, the strong resistance ultimately doomed both monarchies, leading to their disappearance by the end of World War I.

Now, Yuvraj Siagu, present in this era, plans to alter the course of history to ensure the survival of the Korean monarchy. His strategy involves influencing Crown Prince Yeong, guiding him with his own way of thinking and decision-making.

'Joseon needs a competent and reliable monarch at this time—someone who can accept and incorporate Western teachings without undermining the integrity of its own culture. Yeong is the key to Joseon's survival,' Yuvraj Siagu reflected on his thought, while contentedly conversing with Yeong as they walked through the grounds of the Imperial City.

Regarding the situation of the Qing Dynasty, Yuvraj Siagu had no interest in saving or assisting the Aisin-Gioro Clan in preventing their inevitable downfall following the fall of Peking. In Yuvraj Siagu's view, the Qing Dynasty must be dissolved and either replaced by another state or conquered by another nation. He understood that if the Qing Empire were ever allowed to rise to the level of a military superpower, it would be difficult for Butuan to counter it, unless nuclear weapons were used preemptively to reduce its population.

The actions of his father, Maharaja Siagu XV, who had joined Empress Dowager Cixi in a secret alliance, not only caused trouble for Yuvraj Siagu but also brought him significant discomfort and stress. His father's support in arming Empress Dowager Cixi's private army placed Yuvraj Siagu at a crossroads. However, this dilemma was resolved when Yuvraj Siagu realized that, despite Empress Dowager Cixi's military preparations, she would be unable to prevent the combined strength of the allied nations from bringing down Peking.

With this shift, Yuvraj Siagu had gradually redirected his attention from the Qing Dynasty to the Russian Empire and the unfolding developments in Eastern Asia and Southeast Asia. His ambitions of expanding Butuan South and further into inland China necessitated thorough preparations and strategic planning for the future.

Crown Prince Yeong paused to catch his breath, his eyes wide with wonder as he took in the surroundings. "Siagu-hyung," he exclaimed, "this place is amazing! Look at all the tall trees and the beautiful flowers. It's so different from my home."

Yuvraj Siagu beamed with pride as he surveyed the lush gardens that encircled them, seamlessly blending with the surrounding buildings. "I'm pleased you appreciate it, Yeong-ah. Sooraj is renowned for its beauty. My father and others often says it's one of the most stunning places in the world."

Yeong's eyes sparkled with excitement. "It truly is! I adore how everything is so green and vibrant. Could we see more? Perhaps the grand river you mentioned?"

Siagu nodded with enthusiasm. "Certainly! The Agusan River is not far from here. It holds great significance for us, providing sustenance through fishing and serving as a key transportation route. Moreover, the view is breathtaking!"

Before Crown Prince Yeong could respond, Senior Eunuch Radhesh abruptly interjected into the conversation between the two Crown Princes.

"Your Imperial Highness," Senior Eunuch Radhesh began, "I must remind you that His Imperial Majesty, Maharaja Siagu XV, has expressly forbidden any member of the Imperial Clan of Shaja from leaving the Imperial City." He continued, "Your Highness, Crown Prince Yeong, I regret to inform you that your plan to visit the mighty Agusan River will have to be postponed in accordance with His Majesty's command."

Yuvraj Siagu, momentarily taken aback, then addressed Crown Prince Yeong. "Ah, I had forgotten about that," he admitted with an air of innocent forgetfulness. Turning his attention back to Yeong, he added, "I apologize, Yeong-ah, but it seems we must delay our visit to the river. Furthermore, your father, King Gojong, and your older brother are not present to grant you permission."

With disappointment in his eyes, Crown Prince Yeong reasoned, "But Eomma Mama can allow me to go."

Crown Prince Yeong was confident in his ability to persuade his mother to grant him permission for things he desired. He knew that even the servants of his household would follow his wishes once his mother approved. This was particularly true now, with his father, King Gojong, absent and unable to counter his mother's decisions.

Shaking his head gently, Yuvraj Siagu responded, "Yeong-ah… what you are suggesting could bring trouble not just for you, but also for your mother."

Crown Prince Yeong, bewildered by Yuvraj Siagu's words, reasoned with conviction, "But I am the heir to the throne of Joseon… I am not going to get into any trouble."

From a young age, Yeong had been taught that everything within Joseon was under his family's control, and that even the people were subject to his whims. His father, King Gojong, had occasionally imposed minor consequences for Yeong's unreasonable behavior, both in Joseon and while residing at Baltso Palace.

However, Royal Noble Consort Sunheon consistently comforted her son, attributing any faults to his courtiers, thus shielding Yeong from any real sense of guilt. Even Eunuch Ji-Hwan and the other princes refrained from holding the young prince accountable for his misdeeds. Consequently, the concepts of refusal and punishment had never been truly ingrained in Crown Prince Yeong's mind.

Seeing that Crown Prince Yeong had stubbornly refused to accept his own words, Yuvraj Siagu couldn't help but realize that Yeong was gradually succumbing to the same mindset that had tainted many Asian monarchs in his previous life. Yuvraj Siagu understood that it wouldn't be long before his once-innocent Yeong would transform into an incompetent and tyrannical ruler, a scenario that would also negatively impact Yuvraj Siagu's own sister.

This revelation further fueled Yuvraj Siagu's determination to influence Yeong, hoping to mold him to think as he did. Such an influence would not only serve Yuvraj Siagu's interests but also benefit his sister and their nation.

Yuvraj Siagu addressed Crown Prince Yeong with a tone of solemnity. "Yeong-ah," he began, capturing the Crown Prince's full attention, "just because we are royals and hold a higher social and economic status, it doesn't grant us the absolute authority to act without consequence. We both have responsibilities in this world and to the nation we represent—duties that serve not only our own interests and those of our families but also the well-being of our country. I trust you understand this, Yeong-ah."

As Yuvraj Siagu's words resonated with him, Crown Prince Yeong found himself deep in thought. Yuvraj Siagu, one of the few individuals the Crown Prince truly trusted, had unwittingly made a significant impact on him. The Crown Prince reflected on Yuvraj Siagu's statements and actions, realizing their profound influence on his own sense of duty and prompting him to reconsider his recent choices.

Eunuch Ji-Hwan and the other courtiers accompanying Crown Prince Yeong felt a deep sense of satisfaction and pleasure with the reaction elicited from their master. It was well known among them that only a select few could impart lessons to Crown Prince Yeong, and Yuvraj Siagu was one of those rare individuals. Despite his long tenure of service, Eunuch Ji-Hwan had never dared to educate or challenge Crown Prince Yeong, fearing for his own life. Thus, the reminder and guidance provided by Yuvraj Siagu were particularly gratifying for Eunuch Ji-Hwan, who found himself increasingly admiring the maturity of the ten-year-old prince.

As the conversation between the two heirs continued during their walk through the Imperial City, they took in the beauty and grandeur surrounding them. They encountered several ministers and members of the Imperial Clan of Shaja along their path. However, what truly captured Yuvraj Siagu's attention were the three exquisite enclosed palanquins adorned with the sigils of the Clans of Halkar, Gantuk, and Emban as they passed by.

Yuvraj Siagu's confusion was evident as he pondered aloud, "Why have I been constantly seeing the sigils of Halkar, Gantuk, and Emban these past few days? Is something imminent that I am not aware of?"

Senior Eunuch Redhesh, maintaining a respectful demeanor, provided the answer. "Your Imperial Highness, the Maharaja has scheduled a meeting of the Imperial Clan Council for next week."

The Imperial Clan Council is a prestigious assembly representing the voices of 350 cadet clans within the Imperial Clan of Shaja. However, rather than including all 350 cadet clans, both significant and insignificant, the Council is composed of representatives from only 9 of the oldest and most powerful cadet clans, excluding the Imperial Clan of Shaja itself. This brings the total to 10 if the Imperial Clan of Shaja were counted.

These 9 cadet clans trace their origins back to the earliest members of the Imperial Clan, which was established in the 13th century. They are, in order from oldest to newest: the Aldang Clan, the Buntag Clan, the Halkar Clan, the Gantuk Clan, the Emban Clan, the Balgan Clan, the Chakar Clan, the Daghan Clan, and the Falaan Clan.

The Imperial Clan Council is one of the most influential institutions in the Butuan Empire, capable of swaying the emperor's decisions. It serves as the emperor's "left ear," while the government represents the "right ear." In recent years, the Council has shown little interest in governmental matters, focusing instead on managing the affairs of the collateral cadet clans of the Imperial Clan of Shaja.

Yuvraj Siagu, deep in thought, gazes at the departing palanquins making their way southward from the city. The arrival of these high-ranking representatives troubles him, for he had neither been informed of nor anticipated their visit. What could be happening?

Noticing the confused and dazed expression on his master's face, Senior Eunuch Radhesh addressed him, "It concerns Lord Rohan Harish and Queen Kaʻiulani, Your Imperial Highness."

As Senior Eunuch Radhesh spoke, Yuvraj Siagu recalled that today was the day his father had scheduled discussions with Queen Emeritus Liliʻuokalani of Hawai'i, the current Prime Minister, and several other members of the Kalākaua royal house. This meeting was intended to finalize the decisions regarding his cousin and the present queen of Hawai'i.

Meanwhile, Crown Prince Yeong, observing the intense preoccupation and multitasking of his older brother, asked with curiosity, "Siagu-hyung, do you have many responsibilities as the Crown Prince?"

Yuvraj Siagu paused thoughtfully before responding. "Indeed, I do. I must familiarize myself with our empire's laws, our history, and the art of leading our people. But it's not merely a matter of studying books. I also needed to immerse myself in our martial arts, literature, culture, tradition, religion, and, above all… diplomacy. These have been my pursuits for the past several years."

The Crown Prince Yeong, eyes wide with curiosity, asked, "Do I also need to follow the same path, Siagu-hyung?"

Yuvraj Siagu smiled gently and nodded. "What your people and nation require is a strong and knowledgeable monarch—one who rules not only with firmness but also with empathy and skill. As the future leaders of our nations, it is our responsibility to train ourselves to become competent and capable rulers."

With a worried look on his face, Crown Prince Yeong questioned, "But will I be able to do it? To be like you?"

Yuvraj Siagu chuckled, his smile reassuring. "Hahaha… Yeong-ah, of course you will be able to be like me in the future." Crown Prince Yeong nodded in response, finding comfort in the assurance.

The two continued their conversation as they strolled through the Imperial City. Their walk was soon joined by Rajkumari Mahati and Rajkumar Ainesh, both of whom had been insistent on participating. The group spent the entire morning exploring the vast expanse of the Imperial City. Eventually, they decided to stop at the mausoleum in Victory Square to pay homage and respect to the ancestors of the Imperial Clan of Shaja.

The group then made their way toward the Imperial Compound. Crown Prince Yeong, who had been permitted by his mother to visit only until morning, decided to leave and head to Baltso Palace so he could continue his studies by the afternoon. Before departing, he promised Yuvraj Siagu that he would prioritize his studies and strive to be a great monarch in the future, a promise that brought a satisfied smile to Yuvraj Siagu's face.

The siblings—Yuvraj Siagu, Rajkumari Mahati, and Rajkumar Ainesh—then proceeded to their respective quarters after a visit to their mother, the maharani, who was still pregnant. After spending several hours resting and reading in his quarters, Yuvraj Siagu made his way to his class with Doctor Rizal at the pavilion by the pond. There, Doctor Rizal informed him that he would be receiving a new tutor for his subjects.

Yuvraj Siagu was never truly bothered by the fact that Doctor Rizal had more pressing responsibilities, particularly given that he was the current Minister and Director of the Ministry of Virology. Doctor Rizal, however, had assured that he would continue to visit the Imperial Compound, maintaining his role as the head physician of the Imperial Family.

For their final lesson, Doctor Rizal had chosen to deliver a lecture on a scientific topic. Yet, Yuvraj Siagu found himself questioning what 19th-century science could possibly offer in comparison to the advanced knowledge of the 21st century. Consequently, throughout most of the lesson, his mind wandered to other matters.

Doctor Rizal's voice cut through the quiet room, persistent and unwavering. "Your Imperial Highness… Your Imperial Highness…" He continued, his gaze fixed on Yuvraj Siagu, who was clearly distracted and inattentive to the lesson at hand.

"Hmmm?" Yuvraj Siagu's response came as he belatedly acknowledged his tutor's call.

"Your Imperial Highness," Doctor Rizal began, his tone stern and authoritative, "as the future ruler of our mighty nation, it is imperative that you focus more on your studies rather than allowing your mind to wander to other matters." His expression remained serious as he continued, "Henri Becquerel…"

"A French physicist had discovered that uranium salts emitted rays capable of penetrating heavy paper and affecting photographic plates, even without an external energy source such as sunlight," Yuvraj Siagu interjected with a nonchalant expression, his attention fixed on Doctor Rizal.

Doctor Rizal, his mind filled with satisfaction and curiosity, nodded at his student before continuing the lesson. Their discussion flowed uninterrupted for three hours.

As Doctor Rizal prepared to depart for Maharani Alice's checkup, Yuvraj Siagu stopped him to inquire about the new tutor expected to arrive the following week. Doctor Rizal, pleased, provided the information willingly.

"Oh? The one who will be replacing me is quite a capable individual. Although not really known in the field of science, unlike our peers. I believe that the person who will be replacing me will be adequate and sufficient enough to fill the gap of my leave.

She is current sailing with her family heading here in Sooraj from Europe. A woman of intellect and passion in pursuing her passion in science."

But instead of being welcomed with a nod and a smile, Yuvraj Siagu remained in silence while Senior Eunuch Radhesh and the other courtiers of Yuvraj Siagu are looking at Doctor Rizal with disbelief and confusion.

Seeing the Crown Prince and his courtiers' reactions, Doctor Rizal already understood the concerns and hesitations written on their faces. Which was never knew to Doctor Rizal, given that the day he proposes the idea of having a woman of European descent teach sciences on the Crown Prince of Butuan, he was met with scrutiny and harsh criticism coming from the emperor and tutors of the Imperial children.