-- 3rd Person POV ---
--- 20th of May 1907 ---
"Rajkumar Keshav of Dabao is here, Your Imperial Highness." Senior Court Lady Mei Ying stated respectfully.
A sudden feeling of delight arose in Yuvraj Siagu after hearing his courtier's words, "Let him in," he stated with a smile on his face before putting down the documents in his hand.
Following her master's words, Senior Court Lady Mei Ying opened the door of the office, allowing Maharajkumar Keshav to enter.
"Keshav!" Siagu greeted warmly, a genuine smile spreading across his face. He stepped forward to clasp his cousin's hand, his youthful energy contrasting with Keshav's composed demeanour.
"Siagu," Keshav replied with a nod, his voice deep due to age but still carrying a hint of familial affection. "It's been some time since I last set foot in Sooraj. The capital seems busier than ever."
"Indeed, with so much having happened over the past years, especially after the battle against the Qing and the Russians." Siagu agreed as he gestured for his cousin to sit. "And it's about to get even busier. That's partly why I've called you here."
As they settled, Yuvraj Siagu handed over a summarized report detailing the upcoming Butuan Imperial Education Consortium (BIEC) meeting and the initiatives to improve the educational system. Keshav took the document and began to read, his eyes scanning the contents with focus.
"You want me to represent the crown at the Consortium?" Keshav inquired after a moment, looking up from the papers.
"Yes," Siagu affirmed. "Out of all working members of the Imperial family, you are one of those who value education and have supported a few key reforms in the sector, making you the most suitable one for this event. It's crucial that the one who will represent the crown in the consortium is the one who understands it the most. Besides, your background in the military further provides the activeness that I seek."
Keshav leaned back slightly, considering. "It's an honour, Siagu. I'll do it. But tell me, what specific message or agenda should I carry to the Consortium?"
Yuvraj Siagu's expression grew serious. "The key is to push for accountability in budget management while emphasizing the empire's commitment to fostering innovation and accessibility. Education is the cornerstone of our imperial strength, just as the military, but without proper oversight, it risks stagnation.
Our family and the government have been pouring millions into education in hopes that these chancellors and presidents will manage their budget, but it appears to be that corruption has also crept into the educational sector. Without us curing this issue, we risk the possibility of having our education plummet into nothing but imbecility. And instead of having an imperial society run by intellectuals, it would instead be run by money-hungry leaders."
Rajkumar Keshav nodded in agreement to Yuvraj Siagu's words as he believes that education, along with military strength, is the foundation of a strong society. Investing in education for the future generation now is better than to invest into them on a much later date.
The two cousins further discussed in a detailed discussion of strategies and key points, with Keshav offering his insights from his travels and interactions with educational leaders across Butuan.
Their conversation shifted naturally, moving from the consortium to the Golden Crescent Games.
"I hear you've put significant effort into these games," Keshav said with a small smile.
"Years of work," Siagu admitted, his voice tinged with both pride and fatigue. "It's more than just a sporting event—it's a statement to the world about who we are and what we stand for."
"Well," Keshav said, setting his teacup down, "you've always been ambitious. If anyone can pull it off, it's you."
"I'll take that as a compliment," Yuvraj Siagu smilingly stated jokingly, which made Keshav laugh in return.
A stare was then thrown by Keshav towards Siagu, "So? How was the situation with your father? I heard that despite the treatment being given to him, cancer still creeps to him without delay."
"He will be okay. I know he will be okay." Yuvraj Siagu stated with a gentle smile while staring at the empty chair where his father used to sit during his days of leading the empire.
Rajkumar Keshav, who fully understands the meaning of Siagu's words, decided to remain in silence. His uncle might be a good person and a strong leader, but everything has its own limitation into leading and living, Keshav fully understands this, as he himself lost his parents to illness.
Their meeting concluded as the palace staff brought in light refreshments. Keshav lingered a little longer, catching up on family matters and reminiscing about shared memories before taking his leave.
Two weeks later, on the 6th of June 1907, Yuvraj Siagu finally received a report on what happened during the consortium from his cousin, and based on the report, it appears that everything went well. What is even pleasing to Yuvraj Siagu's eyes is the mass resignation of university chancellors and presidents. Which subsequently caught the attention of the press, particularly the Lobestar Imperial Network, which connects the mass resignation on the issue within Aguinaldo's government and the filed cases against ministers and government workers at the Imperial Judicial Council.
And while Yuvraj Siagu is happily reading the reports, a sudden news about the happenings in the parliament appears on the television. A man in his mid-20s can be seen wearing a formal sonmin while holding a microphone, facing the camera, while behind him is the magnificent parliament building of Sanoor.
With a serious tone, the young reporter began, his voice steady yet weighty. The camera captured his determined expression as he continued, "Prime Minister Aguinaldo has been officially replaced by Kunal Sahni (Mariano Trías), a prominent member of the Conservative Party and a staunch advocate for the preservation and strengthening of the monarchy."
The reporter's expression mirrored the gravity of the situation as he continued, "This sudden shift in leadership comes amidst mounting pressure from both the parliament and the public. Prime Minister Aguinaldo, whose administration has been plagued by controversies for the past years, including allegations of corruption and the betrayal of the monarchy's trust, has seen his support erode to the point of no return."
The camera zoomed out to capture the impressive façade of the parliament building, its towering pillars and intricate carvings a testament to Butuan's architectural grandeur. The camera then focuses on the statement hanging on the gate of the parliament building, announcing the change of Prime Minister.
The reporter gestured slightly toward the building behind him. "Earlier today, 6th of June 1907, after an emergency session, members of parliament convened to vote on a motion of no confidence against the former Prime Minister Aguinaldo. The vote passed with an overwhelming majority, paving the way for the appointment of Deputy Prime Minister Kunal Sahni (Mariano Trías) as the new Prime Minister."
A brief clip of the parliament session played on the screen. Parliamentarians debated passionately, some calling for accountability and transparency, while others expressed hope for a renewed partnership between the monarchy and the government. The motion of no confidence was met with applause from the Conservative faction, underscoring the political shift within the nation's leadership.
The scene returned to the reporter. "Deputy Prime Minister Kunal Sahni, known for his conservative policies and unwavering loyalty to the monarchy and the empire, has pledged to restore public trust in the government and strengthen the collaboration between the crown and parliament. His appointment has been received with mixed reactions from the public and political analysts alike."
The screen then cut to clips of citizens reacting to the change. Some were seen applauding in support, expressing optimism for the new Prime Minister's vision for the monarchy and the nation. Others voiced concerns about potential overreach and the implications of such a strong alignment with monarchist ideals.
The reporter paused momentarily before concluding, "This development marks a pivotal moment in Butuan's political landscape. Prime Minister Sahni's ability to navigate the nation through this turbulent time will undoubtedly shape the country's future. Reporting live here in Sanoor, this is Darshan Kapoor, for Lobestar Imperial Network."
The television returned to the scene of Yuvraj Siagu, whose expression remained unreadable as he absorbed the news. The removal of Aguinaldo finally came into being, and the parliament is now once again under the control of the imperial family. A sigh of relief and contentment exited Yuvraj Siagu's mouth as he slouched on his chair, savouring the success he had achieved as he ousted Aguinaldo from office.
But as he continues to savour his moment of enjoyment, a sudden voice of his courtier suddenly enters his ears.
"Her Imperial Majesty Alice is here to see you, Your Imperial Highness."
Yuvraj Siagu straightened his posture, his expression softening slightly at the mention of his mother. Despite his composed demeanour, there was an unmistakable warmth in his eyes whenever Her Imperial Majesty Alice was involved.
"Let her in, Radhesh," he said with a faint smile, motioning for the Senior Eunuch to proceed.
Radhesh bowed deeply and stepped aside, the grand doors opening to reveal Maharani Alice, her regal presence unmistakable. Though her attire was understated compared to the grandeur expected of her station, her elegance and poise radiated an undeniable authority.
"Mama," Yuvraj Siagu greeted her warmly, rising from his seat and approaching her with respect.
"Siagu," she said, her tone a mix of affection and formality. As she reached him, she placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, her eyes scanning his face with a mother's intuition. "I see the weight of the world hasn't dulled your spirit. How are you?"
"As well as one can be, considering the affairs of the day," he replied lightly, his smile reassuring. "I've just made some readings on the reports from the government and the upcoming Golden Crescent Games, but now I am free and fine."
Alice nodded; her expression thoughtful. "The matter of the Golden Crescent Games can be tackled later." She paused and touched her son's face, trying to check her son's condition, "Have you been sleeping well? Have you been eating well and spending some time with your wife instead of just burying yourself with these documents?"
Yuvraj Siagu's composed demeanour softened as he felt his mother's gentle touch on his face. There was a tenderness in her actions that reminded him, despite his heavy responsibilities, that he was still her son before anything else.
"Mama," he began with a faint smile as he removes his mother's hand on his face, "you worry too much. I assure you; I've been sleeping well enough and eating properly. As for my wife," his expression turned sheepish as they both taken their seats, "she would certainly agree with you that I've been too absorbed in my work. But we've spent time together—during our free time, as she is also busy touring the areas outside the capital, visiting schools and orphanages."
Alice raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Really? Then why is it that the moment your papa and I arrived here yesterday, I have been receiving reports of your willingness to skip your food just to attend government matters?" She seriously stated while staring at her son, who is a bit startled by his mother's knowledge,
"Sigh. I know that you are doing this in wanting to weaken the parliament and surpassing our enemies in terms of strength in warfare and diplomacy. And I have no intention of stopping you, as this ensures our family's survival and continual rule. But what I do not want to happen is for you to be sick and be like your papa."
Maharani Alice worriedly stated as she affectionately rubbed her son's hand, wanting to convey her worries to her son. Taking care of her husband, Maharaja Siagu XV, while battling against cancer, and taking care of him is already exhausting for Maharani Alice's opinion. And if her son became sick just like her husband, she doesn't think she can handle taking care of two individuals.
Yuvraj Siagu's startled expression softened into one of understanding and quiet gratitude. He knew his mother's worries came from a place of love, rooted in the trials she had endured. The memory of his father's long battle with cancer weighed heavily on both their minds, a poignant reminder of the fragility of even the strongest figures.
"Mama," he said gently, clasping her hand in his, "I promise you, I'm not neglecting my health. I've learned from Papa's struggles and from the strength you showed during those times. I would never want to cause you such worry again." His voice was calm but carried an undercurrent of earnestness. "I understand the responsibility I bear, not just for the empire but for you and our family. I won't let you carry that burden alone."
Maharani Alice's eyes glistened briefly, though her composure remained intact. She smiled faintly, the lines of concern on her face easing slightly. "You've always been thoughtful, Siagu. But even the strongest leaders need to take care of themselves. This empire is built on the foundation of our family's unity and strength, and that strength comes from your well-being, too."
He nodded, his grip on her hand tightening slightly. "You have my word. I'll take better care of myself. And I'll make sure to spend more time with my wife—and with you. It's been too long since we've had a proper moment together."
Maharani Alice's smile widened, and she gave his hand an affectionate squeeze. "Good. Because while the empire needs you, I need my son to be well and happy. Not to mention that your wife and your soon-to-be children needed you."
Maharani Alice continues to inquire about her son's health condition as she and her husband, along with the others, were absent for months and retreated to the Summer Palace for recuperation of her husband. Then Yuvraj Siagu, wanting to change the topic, leaned back, "By the way, where is Papa and the others? And when did you all arrive? Why is it that I wasn't informed about this?"
Alice's smile turned playful, a glimmer of mischief in her eyes. "We arrived a moment ago, dear. As for why you weren't informed… well, I thought it might be best to surprise you. And clearly, it worked."
Siagu raised an eyebrow, leaning back in his chair. "A surprise, indeed. I must admit, Mama, it's not often you manage to keep something from me. But where is Papa? I assume he's resting?"
Alice's expression softened, her playful demeanour giving way to a touch of concern. "He's resting, yes. The journey was tiring for him, especially for your siblings who were tired of sailing the sea from Maynila to Sooraj. I am the only one in here as I have missed you so much and would want to spend a bit of time before I take some rest before we have our dinner."
Yuvraj Siagu's expression softened at his mother's words, the corner of his lips lifting into a gentle smile. "I'm glad you came, Mama. And I've missed you, too. It's not often we get moments like this, just the two of us. Though I wish it hadn't taken such a tiring journey for you all to be here."
Alice reached across the desk, placing her hand over his once more. "You're right, Siagu. These moments are rare, which is why I treasure them. Even with all your responsibilities, you're still my son first and foremost." Her voice was tender, a quiet reminder that no matter the weight on his shoulders, he was never alone.