74 Chapter 72 Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna

--- 3rd Person POV ---

--- 8th of April 1897 ---

"I had a vision years before Emperor Siagu XV of Butuan visited Hanseong. The only person I confided in was my son, Gojong. I foresaw a child emerging from the Southeastern part of the continent, destined to ascend to power. This child wouldn't merely lead the continent to greatness but would also embody the beacon of hope for the future of monarchy in Joseon and the world. He would not only serve as its protector but also as the arbiter of its destiny," Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung solemnly recounted her vision. However, instead of receiving earnest consideration from her husband, Daewongun, she was met with a scoff of derision.

"Hah! Dreams?! You've become delusional since embracing that crazy religion. A child from the Southeast? You must be joking... Why would a god, if your dreams were true, choose someone from that side of the continent? Those people were considered barbaric and don't deserve anything.

It was indeed wise for Sonjun to lock you all in here because of your insanity. You and your dreams will bring harm to the monarchy. Your dreams mean nothing in this battle, Yeoheung," Daewongun stated, before continuing his walk toward the gates of the compound with his entourage, completely ignoring everything around him.

After Daewongun and his entire entourage exited the room, escorted by the servants of Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung, a hushed silence enveloped the space. Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung, accompanied by two servants—one male and one female—remained in utter quietude, absorbing the gravity of the situation.

Yet, within the tranquil atmosphere, a subtle smile of satisfaction began to play on Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung's countenance as she reflected on the unfolding events of the past few months.

"Kang Hoon, it appears that the plan has indeed progressed seamlessly," Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung calmly remarked to her trusted eunuch, shifting her gaze toward the sky in the southeast.

Kang Hoon and Choi Yeon-hee, a eunuch and court lady serving Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung, both in their early 40s, moved to the left side of their mistress to facilitate their conversation with lowered voices. Kang Hoon responded after this adjustment.

"Yes, Daegam Jeonhap Jujeon Mama. Minister Yi Ha-je assured us that he and his entire group will be able to gain control over parts of the south of Joseon even before the forces of the Butuan Empire take hold of Hanseong," Kang Hoon stated respectfully, speaking softly to prevent the walls from overhearing their conversation.

Kang Hoon's words brought a smile of satisfaction to Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung's face, as she realized that her and her benefactor's plan was indeed progressing smoothly. She was aware that Minister Yi Ha-je, the former minister of war during his son's reign and a staunch supporter of the southern faction, was secretly amassing forces after the purge of southern faction supporters and members from the palace court.

The involvement of Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung with Minister Yi Ha-je extends beyond mere awareness or belated support of the rebels. She played a pivotal role in inspiring Minister Yi Ha-je to seize the opportunity and initiate a rebellion against King Sunjong. This was in exchange for her own support and that of her benefactor.

Since then, Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung and her benefactor have provided ongoing support to Minister Yi Ha-je, including weapons and financial assistance. Furthermore, supporters of Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung beyond the capital and palace walls have actively rallied behind Minister Yi Ha-je, offering recruitment and intelligence. This widespread support has made it challenging for Joseon and Japanese soldiers to completely suppress Minister Yi Ha-je's uprising.

"How about their weaponry and supplies? With the ongoing war between Butuan and Japan, the trading routes from the Pacific have been nearly desolated," remarked Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung, gesturing for Choi Yeon-hee to prepare some Goryeo Insam tea, which she promptly did.

"Indeed, Daegam Jeonhap Jujeon Mama. The conflict between Butuan and Japan has severely disrupted the supply chain for Minister Yi Ha-je and his men in the south. Additionally, the north is still recovering from the harsh winter that ended just last month. Minister Yi Ha-je's recent letter suggests that the southern forces still possess adequate supplies to last another month, thanks in part to support from the local populace. However, I cannot offer the same assurance for the situation in the north," Kang Hoon explained, pausing briefly before continuing.

"Due to the severe winter last year and the first two months of this year, the northern part of the kingdom has suffered greatly. These conditions have made it impossible for Minister Yi Ha-je's northern forces to secure sufficient supplies and advance further south. Furthermore, the people in the north prioritize their own well-being and that of their families over support for the rebels in the area," Kang Hoon concluded.

"I see. The decision to concentrate Minister Yi Ha-je's main forces in the south is proving beneficial. Dealing with the situation in the north poses considerable challenges. Moreover, the rebels' supplies are dwindling rapidly, and the prospect of replenishment remains uncertain. However, it's imperative that they receive assistance as soon as possible.

Regarding the people in the northern part of the kingdom, has my husband and grandson taken steps to alleviate their suffering? Despite the end of winter, the people still require urgent aid," Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung remarked, reflecting on Kang Hoon's words as she peacefully sipped her Goryeo Insam.

Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung's inquiry prompted Kang Hoon to pause momentarily, before he turned his attention towards the lady-in-waiting, Choi Yeon-hee, silently indicating for her to convey the information. Recognizing Choi Yeon-hee's deeper understanding of the northern situation compared to Kang Hoon, who focuses primarily on the capital and the south, he entrusted her with the task.

"Daegam Jeonhap Jujeon Mama, the north has been neglected not only by the current king but also by your husband, not just during the winter season, but even now, when the situation has finally begun to improve. From what I've gathered from whispers on the road, the people in the north, due to the neglect by King Sunjong's government, have become increasingly discontent. The murmurs of joining the rebels are already brewing in the clouds of the north," Choi Yeon-hee stated calmly to Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung.

"Hmmm… that is to be expected. The people in the north, who once supported the ousting of my son from the throne, have now realized that the one they supported is neglecting them. That good-for-nothing grandson of mine thought that the people would still support him blindly, just as they supported previous kings of this nation," Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung said confidently before sipping her tea. She continued, "Between my son and the current king, I can confidently say that Gojong proves to be a much better king compared to that imbecile sitting on the phoenix throne right now. Not only has he failed to see the suffering of the people, establish power, or pass reforms, but he has also failed to support the very people who supported him during his rebellion. Time will tell how many days he has left to enjoy the life of being a king."

"But anyway, the rebels in the north must not be neglected. We should seize this opportunity to garner support from the northern masses to join us in our fight against the supporters of Sunjong and the Japanese. Court Lady Choi Yeon-hee, please make contact within the kingdom and arrange for supplies to be sent to the rebels in the north. Ensure that the supplies are prepared in large quantities so that some can also be distributed among the northern populace. Transport them under the cover of night. I don't want the Japanese or my husband's supporters to gain any advantage from this," Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung stated calmly.

"Yes, Daegam Jeonhap Jujeon Mama," Court Lady Choi Yeon-hee replied with a nod, making a mental note to carry out her tasks later in the afternoon.

"Eunuch Kang Hoon," Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung addressed, "Contact our benefactor and provide him with details of the rebels' needs."

"Um... Where should I send the letter to, Daegam Jeonhap Jujeon Mama?" Eunuch Kang inquired, now uncertain about how to reach their benefactor after he had left his quarters in Hanseong.

"Hmmm… He is still in Hanseong, heading towards the south of the city. Currently, he is staying at a small Catholic temple in the area, hiding from the gazes of my husband and the king. Recognizing him won't be difficult for you, as his features differ significantly from those of common people in the kingdom," replied Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung. Eunuch Kang Hoon responded with a slight bow.

The man referred to as the benefactor by Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung is associated with the late Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc's people. Unlike the rest of his team, he chose to remain in the kingdom and avoid the eyes of King Sonjung and the Japanese.

This man is Surya Choudhary, a Butuanon Diplomat working independently of the late Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc. He arrived in the kingdom on the same day Emperor Siagu XV arrived. Surya Choudhary first met Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung a few days after King Gojong was ousted from the throne by his father and his own son.

(a/n: The name Surya Choudhary comes from the ancient Butuanon language where Surya comes from the ancient Butuanon for the word 'Sun', represents the radiant and powerful energy of the sun, symbolizing warmth, enlightenment, and vitality. While Choudhary meant leadership and nobility.)

The meeting was initiated by Minister Surya Choudhary himself, facilitated through Eunuch Kang Hoon. During this time, Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung and her family were still not under house arrest at Changdeokgung Palace, which made the meeting between Minister Surya Choudhary and Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung possible.

Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung was confused as to how Minister Surya Choudhary could still be in the Kingdom, as he was last spotted at the port of Jemulpo (Incheon). Until then, no more information was known about Minister Surya Choudhary. However, it appears that Minister Surya Choudhary is still in Joseon.

Minister Surya Choudhary then introduced himself to Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung, who was still confused at the time, before finally stating his purpose for meeting her. Minister Surya Choudhary expressed his desire to ally himself with Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung in ousting King Sunjong and reinstating King Gojong to the throne. Initially, Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung denied the proposal and left the meeting area. However, Minister Surya Choudhary left her a message that he would be waiting for her reply.

At that time, Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung did not even consider his words, as during the early stage of King Sunjong's reign, she remained neutral and non-vocal about her stance on who should sit on the throne. However, this changed when King Sunjong forced her, along with her children and grandchildren, to side with him and accept Japanese rule on the peninsula. This infuriated Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung, leading her to disown her own grandson and her husband.

Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung reached out to Minister Surya Choudhary, residing in Haeju and using the alias Ju Taeyang to conceal his identity. The purpose behind her contacting Minister Surya Choudhary was to form an alliance with him to dethrone her own grandson from the throne. She believed that the internal affairs of Joseon should only involve its own people, and sought the assistance of a foreigner from Butuan.

However, her influence over the court and government had been steadily waning, particularly following the assassination of the late Queen Min. The situation worsened when the entire Southern Faction was purged by the royal guards, dealing a significant blow to her standing. Minister Surya Choudhary was the only person she believed could aid her in this precarious situation.

As Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung contemplated her next moves, Eunuch Kang Hoon and Court Lady Choi Yeon-hee patiently awaited her commands. Suddenly, a man in his early 50s entered the room without any announcement or warning to the hostess. Behind him, the court ladies of Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung wore worried expressions, consistently urging the man not to enter. Despite their pleas, the old man remained indifferent and unwilling to engage with the court ladies trying to persuade him to leave.

The arrival of the man not only shocked and annoyed Eunuch Kang and the Court Lady, but it also caused Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung to sour her expression as she looked at the old man now standing before her.

This man is none other than the second oldest son of Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung and her husband, Heungseon Daewongun. He is also the elder brother of the deposed king, King Gojong, and the uncle of the current king, King Sunjong. Prince Yi Jae-myon, in his early 50s, dons his royal hanbok and wears a smug expression as he gazes at his mother.

For Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung, her only living son is King Gojong. In her eyes, Prince Yi Jae-myon is already deceased, much like how she regards the current king as her late grandson. The day Prince Yi Jae-myon and his entire family sided with the Japanese and King Sunjong when they were called upon to do so, Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung decided that she had only one living son.

Before even being greeted by her visitor, Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung opened her mouth in dissatisfaction.

"Didn't I just say a while ago that I will not be receiving any visitors except from the REAL family?"

"I am still your family, mother," Prince Yi Jae-myon stated, unfazed by his mother's remarks, attributing it to her age and stress.

"Hah! You cease to exist as my son the moment you betrayed your country and sided with that bastard king and the Japanese," Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung scoffed, still staring at Prince Jae-myon.

Instead of being offended, Prince Jae-myon only smiled at his mother in a nonchalant way.

"And I still stand by my decision to side with the King. That brother of mine is weak and unable to even stand by his own decisions. Always considering how his decisions might affect his relations with Butuan and the West. He is not fit to rule. Wanting to reform the nation and give power to the people? Only an idiot would do such a thing," Prince Jae-myon replied, mocking his brother, King Gojong.

The response not only tensed up the courtiers in the room but also filled them with fear regarding their mistress's reaction, a sentiment they couldn't ignore as Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung erupted in anger.

"I, JAE-MYEON!! (YI JAE-MYON!!)"

The shout from Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung silenced the entire room for a moment, only to be broken by the boisterous laughter of Prince Yi Jae-myon echoing throughout.

"HAHAHAHA! What?! All I stated was the truth! My brother is a fool for trusting the Butuanons and the West. In this war… Japan will triumph. And when it happens… I will return and mock you for choosing my brother over me," Prince Jae-myon declared, turning his back to his mother to continue, "I will show you that I am far superior to that idiotic brother of mine."

In Prince Yi Jae-myon's mind, his younger brother, King Gojong, is a weak and unworthy ruler of Joseon. As the older brother, he believes he is far more capable of governing the kingdom. Throughout his brother's reign, he remained silent, observing and giving him a chance to rule. However, for Prince Yi Jae-myon, King Gojong's failure was evident when he decided to ally the nation with Butuan and the West, considering reforms and contemplating the adoption of a constitution.

Prince Yi Jae-myon firmly believes that Joseon should distance itself from the West and Butuan. He views any association with them as foolish and doomed to failure, especially considering that Prince Yeong is set to be betrothed to the princess of Butuan, whom Prince Yi Jae-myon regards as inferior. Despite his objections, the betrothal has the backing of his mother and the majority of Southern ministers and noble clans.

Frustrated by this situation, Prince Yi Jae-myon has begun plotting to overthrow his brother. He sees his brother's rule as a source of instability and a threat to the monarchy's power. Recognizing his own limitations as a solitary rebel, Prince Jae-myon has reached out to the Japanese minister in Joseon. He proposes offering Joseon's sovereignty in exchange for financial support and the removal of King Gojong from power.

Prince Yi Jae-myon was the individual who initiated the initial contact with the Japanese, which led to the overthrow of Gojong. He spearheaded the northern faction and orchestrated his father, Heungseon Daewongun, to oppose his own brother. He influenced the court and Prince Sunjong to perceive King Gojong as an adversary of the kingdom. He also persuaded Royal Consort Jang to believe that he could place Prince Yi Kang on the throne alongside Sunjong.

Prince Yi Jae-myon initiated everything. He meticulously planned the downfall of King Gojong and the Kingdom, betraying his family, kingdom, king, and people. In return, he was rewarded with 830,000 Yang and bestowed with the clandestine title of Prince Imperial Heung under the Japanese Empire.

(a/n: Yang is the denomination/currency used in Joseon Dynasty during the year 1897. Base on real fact.)

Despite this, Prince Yi Jae-myon no longer cared. To him, the Joseon Kingdom had become nothing but his past, worthy of being forgotten. He now considered himself a member of the Japanese Empire, completely neglecting and abandoning his identity as a Prince of Joseon.

The room finally returned to its serene peace after Prince Jae-myon left. However, instead of finding Grand Internal Princess Consort Yeoheung in a state of tranquility, her face showed irritation and anger. She never imagined that despite her old age, she would still be so angry after being spoken to in such a manner.

Meanwhile, in Hanseong, Joseon, in the northwest of the continent, where despite the arrival of spring, cold winds still swept across the entire nation. It was a vast country spanning two continents, marked by a stark contrast between nobility and common people, reminiscent of the situation in Joseon, even in the late 19th Century.

In this nation lies a palace of immense proportions, spanning a vast 300-hectare area. Its expansive gardens, adorned with shimmering gold and distinguished by magnificent architectural design, render it the favored residence of the ruling family. Amidst the grandeur of the palace grounds, a woman in her late forties strolls gracefully accompanied by her ladies-in-waiting, trailed by a retinue of Imperial Guards.

Drifting along the garden paths, the woman dons a flowing, elegant gown in hues of light green and blue, fashioned from luxurious materials sourced from distant lands. Despite her 49 years, her beauty remains resplendent, befitting her esteemed title as Dowager Empress of all Russia, Maria Feodorovna.

Presently, Dowager Empress Maria wanders the gardens of the Catherine Palace, nestled in Saint Petersburg, Russian Empire. In early April, some trees begin to unfurl their verdant leaves while others bask in the full bloom of spring. Nevertheless, the Dowager Empress persists in her leisurely stroll, seeking respite from the confines of the palace walls.

Since the passing of her late husband, Tsar Alexander III of Russia, Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna has sought solace within the halls of the Catherine Palace. Though she maintains close ties with her son, the current Tsar of Russia, Nicholas II, and his family, her presence here offers moments of tranquility amidst the tumult of royal life, especially following the birth of her first granddaughter, Grand Duchess Olga Nikolaevna of Russia.

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A/N: Hi guys. Thank you so much for supporting my story. I am quite busy for the past few days and on the following days also. Added the fact that I am also starting my new novel which is a fan-fic novel of Harry Potter, revolving on the House of Black.

Hope you all understand my business and will still continue to support my story. Don't forget to comment and made some review. Thank you!