--- 3rd Person POV ---
--- 12th of May 1907 ---…
Seated at the desk was Yuvraj Siagu, poised yet approachable, his piercing gaze shifting from the documents before him to the incoming visitors. He rose gracefully, exuding an air of authority well beyond his years. Despite his young age, the adhipālaka carried himself with the gravitas of someone who had weathered great responsibility.
"Madam Curie and Minister Einstein, as you requested Your Imperial Highness." Senior Eunuch Radhesh announces with full respect before respectfully leaving the room along with the courtiers present inside a while ago.
Einstein immediately bowed; his movements deliberate yet respectful. "Your Imperial Highness, it is an honour to finally meet you."
Yuvraj Siagu smiled warmly but with a hint of curiosity. "And it is an honour to meet the brilliant mind that has captured the admiration of the Curie family and the scientific community of this humble nation."
Albert Einstein smiles back towards Yuvraj Siagu after hearing his complements. Even Madam Curie heave a sigh of relief after hearing the complement made by Yuvraj Siagu towards her husband's student. As receiving Yuvraj Siagu's approval signals the approval of the entire empire towards the work made by Einstein himself, thus Madam Curie could not even hide her own glee towards such scene.
But unbeknownst to the two of them, everything has been under Yuvraj Siagu's calculative move. From the funding of Einstein's research to the extension of his stay in the empire and his recognition within the scientific community of Sangha of Erudition. All were part of Yuvraj Siagu's plan on gather brilliant minds around the world in Sooraj, even Nikola Tesla and his entire family have been granted temporary citizenship due to his contribution to the empire.
"Please, take a seat, Mister Einstein. Madam Curie, you as well." Yuvraj Siagu continues while retaining his smile towards the two, "make yourselves comfortable."
Madam Curie and Einstein then took the seats opposing seats to Yuvraj Siagu, both gently taking their seats, not wanting to disturb Yuvraj Siagu whom have now taking a glance towards the television.
It has been months since the television was released to the public but Einstein could still not believe it that a revolutionary technology like the television will emerge in Butuan and not in America or Europe, especially knowing that Butuan have continuously been involved in war over the past few years. The recent war against the Qing and Russians alone have greatly damage the economy of Butuan, yet it still manages to subsidize the invention of the television.
Growing up in Europe and having traveled only within its surrounding regions, Einstein developed the notion that countries beyond the Western hemisphere were nothing more than lands of uncivilized people. That is why, when he was invited by the Curie couple to join them in their pursuit of studying uranium and other radioactive materials in Sooraj, the capital of the Butuan Empire, he was reluctant to accept the offer.
He doubted what an "uncivilized" nation could possibly offer that might contribute to his research and further advancement of science. Although he had heard reports of Butuan's victories over other countries in its region, Einstein dismissed them as nothing more than exaggerations.
However, after reluctantly accepting the Curies' invitation and spending time in Sooraj and other parts of the empire collecting specimens and data, he was astonished by how advanced and well-organized the country was—surpassing even its Western counterparts. Many cities had managed to maintain a harmonious relationship with nature, something that his homeland and most Western nations had long failed to achieve.
Even Siam, Korea, and Japan, as he later learned, had followed Butuan's developmental model. The empire's sanitation systems and public hygiene standards were far superior to those of Europe. But what truly captured Einstein's admiration was Butuan's unwavering passion for science and innovation—a spirit that many Western nations, despite their pride, had begun to lose.
"Uranium have been under your supervision for the past month, Madam Curie." Yuvraj Siagu spoke in a calm tone while still focusing his attention at the television, "And after reading your reports, it seems that your progress has only improved a little."
Marie Curie, known for her unflappable demeanour, straightened slightly at the young adhipālaka's observation. Her respect for Yuvraj Siagu was evident, though his directness took her by mild surprise. Despite their teacher-student relationship and Butuan's culture in respecting its mentors, Marie Curie understood and knows when to separate personal relationship and work relationship.
To begin with, she was happy to see her student grown from a mere fledgling few years ago to become a mighty Bakunawa able to swallow the 7 moons of the earth. She witnessed how instead of the people loving their elected officials, they grew more to support the Imperial family, something that every monarch in Europe will be jealous of.
Marie Curie offered a small, thoughtful smile. "Your Imperial Highness, scientific progress is rarely swift. The nature of uranium and its properties requires meticulous study and great caution. However, I assure you, the strides we've made here in Butuan surpass what could have been achieved anywhere else."
Albert Einstein nodded in agreement, his previous doubts about Butuan now completely dispelled. "Indeed, Your Imperial Highness. The facilities provided here are nothing short of extraordinary. The support of the Empire has allowed us to explore theories that, in Europe, would have been dismissed or underfunded. However, the complexity of uranium's behaviour cannot be understated."
Yuvraj Siagu finally shifted his gaze from the television to his guests. His youthful face was calm, but his piercing eyes revealed a keen intellect. "And you think I do not know of this? I am the one who pushes the Curie couple to pursue their studies on this field, provided them with materials and proper facilities in handling these types of materials. I even provided them on some basic outcome that uranium can produce.
I am in no way of haste as both of you have emphasize that Butuan is the leading country in terms of innovation and scientific discoveries, and I take pride on that complement of our scientists. But both of you need also to understand that substantial progress must be seen. The budget being poured in your experiments were already enough to feed millions of Butuanons for the entire month."
Seeing the contemplating expression of his teacher and Albert Einstein, Yuvraj Siagu could not help it but smile inwardly. He knew that seeing substantial development in Uranium research will take time and resources. But he also knows for a fact that pressure must be placed to push progress. Rome was not built on a day, but building it does not mean they were not pushed to their limits.
Butuan might be the leading country in innovation and science for now, but how about next month? Next year? For he knew that Crown Princess Mary is now doing something to counter his continual growth. He is not dumb to continuously believe that Crown Princess Mary will do nothing, the woman have already expressed its interest in joining forces against the USA but have also made it clear that she will not be giving up their lands in Asia.
Asia must be under the full influence of Butuan, this is what Yuvraj Siagu believes in. And the presence of Western countries in Asia greatly hampers Yuvraj Siagu's dreams and plans.
The woman has ears and eyes in all over Europe, and the possibility of her knowing that Butuan is now in the Middle East is of 80%, evidence of this is the sudden increase of weariness of the British protectorate in Middle East towards Yemen and the Emirate of Riyadh. And Yuvraj Siagu would not take any slackness on this matter if he wanted to win the game of dominance.
Especially after Japan, Korea, and Siam have expressed their unwillingness to fight Butuan over Asia. A signal that Yuvraj Siagu is waiting for years, not wanting to fight over Asia against Siam, Korea, and Japan. Not to mention that Korea and Siam are already tied with Butuan, only Japan remains, which is about to be solve as the offer of union between his younger sister and the young Hirohito were already presented on the table.
The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of Yuvraj Siagu's words hanging in the air. It was clear to both Marie Curie and Albert Einstein that this was no ordinary discussion—it was a direct challenge, one that reflected not only the adhipālaka's remarkable intellect but also his acute awareness of the geopolitical landscape. The young adhipālaka was more than a patron of the sciences; he was a strategist, fully aware of the stakes.
Marie Curie broke the silence, her voice measured yet resolute. "Your Imperial Highness, your insights are astute, as always. Progress in this field requires a careful balance between caution and ambition. While I understand the urgency, I assure you that the foundation we are building will bear fruit that exceeds expectations."
Einstein chimed in; his tone reflective but earnest. "Your Imperial Highness, you have already achieved what many nations can only dream of—providing an environment where science is respected and nurtured. The advancements made here are laying the groundwork for discoveries that could redefine energy, medicine, and even warfare. While we cannot promise haste, we can promise groundbreaking results."
Research about Uranium is something that should not be hasten, this is what Einstein have learned during his first week of stary under the umbrella of the Curie couple. Not just the uranium has a high help in society but it also has a high risk attached to it. Risk that no scientist is willing to take.
To avoid people from facing this problem, the Curie couple published extensive research regarding the risk on handling these radioactive materials. And Einstein have seen how the Curie couple received their recognition in Sangha of Erudition for their contribution, which inspires Einstein to strive in his own work and be recognize by the Sangha of Erudition.
Yuvraj Siagu leaned back slightly, his hands clasped before him. His expression remained unreadable, but the intensity of his gaze suggested he was carefully weighing their words. After a moment, he spoke, his tone lighter but no less firm.
"I understand the complexities of this research, perhaps more than you realize. My pressure is not to hasten recklessly, but to ensure that we never become complacent. Butuan has climbed to the summit of innovation, and I intend to see it remain there."
His gaze shifted to Marie Curie. "Madam Curie, you once told me that the greatest discoveries often emerge from the greatest challenges. Consider this a challenge—a reminder of the responsibility we bear to lead the world forward."
Marie Curie nodded; admiration evident in her eyes. "You are wise beyond your years, Your Imperial Highness. Your leadership is an inspiration, not just to me but to every scientist in this empire."
Einstein, too, inclined his head respectfully. "It is rare to find a leader who truly understands the value of science. You have my utmost respect, Your Imperial Highness."
Yuvraj Siagu's lips curved into a small smile, one that spoke of both satisfaction and determination. "I appreciate your words, both of you. But spare me with the complements and instead let us ensure they are matched by actions. Butuan does not settle for mediocrity. We strive for excellence."
Which is with truth as the technology released by the government have been thoroughly been checked and pass the passing standard set by Yuvraj Siagu himself. It is not because he seeks perfection, but he wanted to avoid having defective products circulating that might kill people without notice.
Their conversation continues for a couple of minutes before Yuvraj Siagu decided to end the conversation after reaching the allotted time for their meeting. With almost 2 hours being consumed for the updates and assignments to be done, particularly with the increase in research budget and the expansion of the facilities outside Sooraj and the hiring of more researchers.
It was a fruitful conversation that Yuvraj Siagu has over the entire morning. The rest of the day went on with Yuvraj Siagu doing his remaining duties by visiting military facilities outside of Sooraj and some orphanages that have been dwindling for the past years. Since improving the empire's economy and raising the minimum wages of each job in the empire, cases of babies being left at orphanages dramatically decline causing hundreds of orphanages being closed and converted to primary schools or temples as the population of children within the empire skyrocketed.
The day then ended with Yuvraj Siagu spending his dinner with his wife as his parents and siblings were still not in Sooraj but instead in the family's summer palace in Kafagway City. With Yuvrani Khao sharing her activities done with her abagaanays throughout the day, especially with them visiting schools and shops, but most are telling about the latest gossip within the empire, which Yuvraj Siagu finds funny seeing his wife's excited expression while sharing her activities.
Their evening ended with Yuvraj Siagu spending a quiet night in Yuvrani Khao's chambers, the weight of the day's discussions still lingers but softened by their companionship. The following days passed and it is now the 20th of May 1907, Yuvraj Siagu returned to his duties as adhipālaka and acting head of state, seated once again in his father's grand office.
Monday marked the beginning of a new week and, as always, brought the first official audience with the Prime Minister. However, this audience promised to be unlike any other, as it would likely determine the future of Prime Minister Aguinaldo's tenure.
For years, complaints about Aguinaldo's conduct and his questionable loyalty to the crown had trickled in. These were initially dismissed, as Yuvraj Siagu had little authority at the time, and his papa, Maharaja Siagu XV, seemed determined to keep Aguinaldo in office. A decision that greatly dissatisfied other members of the family, even heads of the cadet houses.
Yet the situation had worsened significantly in recent years, particularly after Yuvraj Siagu assumed his role as adhipālaka a total for 24 complaints being filed. Not to mention that this number doubled during the war against the Russians and the Qing and the border dispute in Sabah Region.
And today, after much of consideration and the amounting pressure Yuvraj Siagu has to make a decision as the continual stay of Prime Minister Aguinaldo in office cannot only damage the government but the image of the empire itself. The final nail from Yuvraj Siagu's hesitation on intervening with the happenings within the parliament is the mass resignation of members of the cabinet.
It was Minister Kenji Morita who first resigned as the Minister of Social Welfare, followed by Minister Ahmadi, Minister Li, and the others, the only remaining Minister under Aguinaldo's cabinet is Minister Mabini, who is known to be closed and staunch supporter of Prime Minister Aguinaldo.
As the clock struck ten, Yuvraj Siagu sat poised behind the polished desk, his calm demeanour masking the gravity of what was to come. The heavy oak doors opened, and Senior Eunuch Radhesh entered, his expression respectful and calculated. He bowed respectfully before announcing the presence of Prime Minister Aguinaldo which entered later after receiving the approval of Yuvraj Siagu himself.
Prime Minister Aguinaldo bowed respectfully after Senior Eunuch Radhesh left but did not meet Yuvraj Siagu's gaze as he took his seat across from the young adhipālaka.
"Your Imperial Highness," Aguinaldo began, his voice steady but edged with tension.
"Prime Minister," Yuvraj Siagu answered after offering Prime Minister a seat which Aguinaldo took.
"I trust this morning's audience is regarding matters of state?" Prime Minister Aguinaldo started already foreseen the audience conversation going to revolve into as he was also observing and reading the news.
"It is," Yuvraj Siagu replied, his tone measured. "Matters that concern not only the state but the stability and integrity of this government."
Aguinaldo's brow furrowed, but he said nothing, allowing Yuvraj Siagu to continue.
"For years, your rule as Prime Minister has been marred by controversy and allegations of misconduct. While some of these were dismissed as political manoeuvring, the sheer volume and consistency of the complaints cannot be ignored. Most recently, the resignation of multiple key cabinet members signals a crisis of confidence in your leadership—one that threatens to undermine the government and the empire itself." Yuvraj Siagu coldly stated.
Aguinaldo leaned forward, his voice rising slightly. "Your Imperial Highness, these resignations are the result of petty rivalries and conspiracies and those that have submitted their resignation has already been replaced. I have dedicated my career to serving the empire and the crown. Surely you must see this for what it is: an attempt by my detractors to discredit me."
Yuvraj Siagu remained unmoved. "I have considered that possibility, Prime Minister. Yet the evidence suggests otherwise. These are not isolated incidents but a pattern of behaviour that has eroded trust in your administration. The resignation of honourable men, many of whom have served with distinction, cannot simply be dismissed as petty conspiracies.
Not to mention that some of those honourable men have been serving the empire even before you joined the empire's politics. They have seen everything and experienced the very fabric that moulded this empire on what it is now. They will not leave their offices without any reason."
Prime Minister Aguinaldo's face darkened, but before he could respond, Yuvraj Siagu leaned forward, his gaze unwavering.
"As adhipālaka, it is my duty to safeguard the empire's stability and uphold the crown's honour and authority granted by the people and the constitution. Your continual alienation of your previous ministers and the sudden shift of alignment have not just brought chaos within the parliament but have almost cost us our relationship with our allies."
Prime Minister Aguinaldo clenched his jaw, his hands tightening into fists on his lap as he listened to Yuvraj Siagu's cutting words. His composure, which had been carefully maintained until this point, began to fray. He opened his mouth to speak but hesitated, knowing the adhipālaka's observations held truth.
Before entering this very office, he was already aware on what will be talked about and manages to prepare everything in hopes of halting the topic being brought. But instead of countering the words of Yuvraj Siagu, Prime Minister Aguinaldo instead retreated in intimidation and felt humiliated in return.
Aguinaldo finally found his voice, though it trembled with suppressed frustration. "Your Imperial Highness, I have always acted in what I believed to be the best interest of the empire."
"Best? By what are you thinking that you have done is for the best of the empire?" Yuvraj Siagu countered sharply, "Since gaining victory against the Japanese few years ago, you have brought nothing but humiliation and constant advocation of abolishing the monarchy and replacing it with a republic system. The Maharaja have overlooked your action on taking the credit for the invention of the F1 Buzzard and Airco EB.1 as those are nothing but for the betterment of the military.
But what the crown cannot forgive is your betrayal for seeking friendship with the United States, betraying the trust of the people and your sudden shift of attitude, vocally criticizing the monarchy and the institution that it represents. You might have forgotten but it was not the people who put you in office but it was the Maharaja and the very institution that you consistently been against at.
Not to mention your consistent involvement in corruption and scandals of bribery and budget mismanagement. The rise of unemployment due to your policies that brought nothing but mass unemployment and sudden inflation… do you still want me to continue?"
Aguinaldo's face flushed with a mixture of anger and shame. He shifted uncomfortably in his chair, but the adhipālaka's words pinned him in place.
"As adhipālaka, I cannot overlook these failings," Yuvraj Siagu continued, his tone softening slightly but losing none of its resolve. "The constitution separates my power as the adhipālaka and the power you hold as the Prime Minister of this nation."
Yuvraj Siagu paused, letting the weight of his words settle. He leaned forward slightly, his gaze fixed on Prime Minister Aguinaldo, who now appeared visibly strained. "But while your office carries the authority to lead the government, it is not exempted from accountability—not to the crown, not to the people, and certainly not to the principles upon which this empire was built."
The room fell into a tense silence, broken only by the soft ticking of a clock on the wall. Aguinaldo's hands unclenched, and he exhaled slowly, clearly struggling to compose himself. "Your Imperial Highness," he began again, his tone more measured but still tinged with defiance, "I will not deny that I have made decisions some may find controversial. But I have done so with the intention of securing this empire's future. My approach may differ from tradition, but the times demand innovation."
Yuvraj Siagu tilted his head slightly, as if considering the Prime Minister's words. "Innovation is indeed vital, Prime Minister," he conceded. "However, innovation without respect for the foundations of this empire—its traditions, its values, and its people—leads to division and instability. And instability is a luxury we cannot afford.
I myself seeks innovation but unlike you, I aligned it with the very principle on what it is on being a Butuanon. I know you seeks the help of the United States not because of you wanting to established friendship with that nation but in hopes that the America will offer its support in having you as the President of this nation, ousting the monarchy-my family in position."
The sudden bomb dropped by Yuvraj Siagu in the conversation causing Prime Minister Aguinaldo to suddenly turn pale and sweats violently, particularly on his back. The amount of pressure and shame he felt feels like he was being choke to the point of him almost stopping his breath.
Fear have even started to creeps on his body as he knew what lies ahead of him for betraying the monarchy and the empire. He is not naive on how powerful the Imperial family is, that is why he seeks the help of the United States and betrayed his own party and allied with the Liberals. But instead of being backed and supported, he was betrayed and left in his own accord, isolating him from the very people he trusted.
Yuvraj Siagu's piercing gaze did not waver as he continued, his voice steady yet carrying the force of authority.
"Did you really believe that your schemes would remain hidden, Prime Minister? The crown is not blind to the manoeuvrings within its own government. Your actions have not only jeopardized the trust of this empire's people but have also invited the scrutiny of our allies and adversaries alike. The empire's stability must never be a pawn in anyone's ambitions."
Yuvraj Siagu stated intimidatingly as he stares intently at the now shivering Prime Minister Aguinaldo. The amount of satisfaction Yuvraj Siagu felt while watching the prime minister shivers in front of him boosted his arrogance and dominance in the conversation. Satisfaction creeps on his vein as the very happenings in front of him is what he wanted to see.
For years, Yuvraj Siagu dreams on seeing Aguinaldo shivers in fear in front of him. Not because of Aguinaldo's action in his past life that causes the Philippines independence but because of the action made by Aguinaldo as Prime Minister of Butuan. The insult Yuvraj Siagu felt upon knowing that Aguinaldo collided with the Liberal Party and have been involved in different scandals within the empire is enough to pass a death sentence to Aguinaldo.
But as part of due process and the representation of the constitution, Yuvraj Siagu decided to handle everything with civility. Gathering necessary evidences and documents that are needed in securing Aguinaldo's guilty verdict. He once even suggested to his father to forcefully let go of Aguinaldo but he was instead prevented on doing so.