Capítulo 4: Chapter 4: Realization and Request
Although Miguel Reyes had come from the future, he found himself inexplicably transmigrated to a past resembling a country like Spain.
With no chance of survival in the car crash, he now inhabited the body of Prince Alfonso, the Prince of Asturias, destined to become a king according to the laws of succession.
Secluded in his room, the diligent royal maids ensured that the prince received proper nourishment during his recovery.
Despite Miguel's reluctance, he personally summoned the royal doctor to examine his health, defying the doctor's advice.
Furthermore, Miguel diligently exercised by walking in circles within his room, preparing his body for the uncertain future ahead. The extent of care he received seemed disproportionate for a mere drowning incident, highlighting the weight of his position as the heir to the throne.
Two weeks later, upon completing his recovery, the Spanish royal family threw a celebratory banquet in his honor.
Before attending the event, Miguel, now fully aware of the potential historical parallels, decided to explore the palace to gain further insights.
He pondered whether familiar landmarks and locations might exist in this world, just as some technologies bore similarities to his past era.
Stepping outside the palace, Miguel's suspicions were confirmed as he recognized the structure before him – the Zarzuela Palace. He recalled that it served as the official residence of the King of Spain, located on the outskirts of Madrid. Its history as a hunting lodge dated back to the 17th century, now housing the Spanish royal family in a combination of traditional and modern architecture, surrounded by splendid gardens and grounds.
Realization dawned on Miguel that he had traveled to a time when Spain still ruled over the Philippines, his home country. The suffering of his fellow countrymen under colonization weighed heavily on his heart. Having come from the 21st century, where wars were scarce and peace prevailed, Miguel resolved to renounce his claim to the throne and request to inherit the Philippine colony as his domain to manage.
Deeply connected to his Filipino roots, Miguel acknowledged the suffering his countrymen endured under colonization, and he vowed to work towards making the Philippines strong and prosperous.
One week after the banquet, Alfonso sought an audience with his father, King Alfonso III.
"The Highness Alfonso is here, Your Majesty," announced the king's attendant. King Alfonso III sat in his office, surrounded by piles of reports.
"Let him in," King Alfonso III responded, his eyes still focused on signing documents. "Yes, Your Majesty," the attendant responded hurriedly.
As Alfonso entered, King Alfonso III put down his pen and directed his attention to his son.
"So, Alfonso, what do you need?" the king inquired.
"Apologies for intruding, Father. This child of yours has an insolent request. I want to go to the Philippines, explore the Pacific, and the tropical islands," Alfonso responded. He was aware that he was not the favored child, despite being the heir apparent by law rather than his father's choice. Alfonso knew his rebellious nature had disappointed his father greatly.
"And I realize that being heir apparent is by birthright, but I also know in my heart that I am not worthy of the throne. Thus, I am renouncing my claim in exchange for managing the Philippine islands," Alfonso added. Miguel knew that he needed to humble himself to justify his request, especially with others lobbying to replace him as heir apparent.
His father was momentarily taken aback and contemplated Alfonso's reasoning. "Are you certain of what you're saying? The privileges only the heir apparent can experience... I must discuss this with other members of the royal family and inform the parliament," the king responded.
"Yes, Father, it's not a decision made on a whim. After my near-death experience, I realized the weight of my past actions that tarnished the royal family's name. I also recognize my capabilities," Alfonso responded with determination, aware that adding a touch of half-fake realization would make his request more sound.
"Very well, since you've come to this decision with a sound mind, I will consider your request. Give me at least a week to discuss it with other royal family members and the government," the king concluded.
"Thank you, Father, for considering my request. I will leave you now, as I see you are busy. Goodbye for now, Father," Alfonso said, leaving his father's office. Miguel made his way to the library to check if any differences in the past were documented in his future.
As Alfonso departed, King Alfonso III summoned other members of the royal family to discuss Alfonso's request. Subsequently, after consulting with them, he called a high-ranking member of the parliament.
Almost two weeks passed since his discussion with his father, King Alfonso III.
Alfonso was seen sipping tea in the garden when his father's attendant approached, informing him that the king wished to see him.
Nervous yet excited, Alfonso anticipated the reason for the summons, wondering whether his request had been accepted or declined and considering the myriad possibilities that awaited him if he were to embark on his journey to the Philippines.
"The royal family and the government have arrived at a collective decision to grant your request. The Philippine islands will be bestowed upon you, along with a generous monetary grant of 10 billion pesetas. In addition to this, you shall be granted the prestigious title of Duke, and henceforth, you shall be known as the Duke of the Orient. Moreover, we shall provide you with a retinue of maids and guards to ensure your comfort and security on the island. An allocation of 500 maids will be at your service, attending to your needs and assisting you in managing the affairs of the island. Furthermore, we bestow upon you a formidable force of 20,000 guards, at your command, to safeguard the island and protect its inhabitants. To further facilitate your endeavors, we shall also assemble a diverse and skilled team of 1000 individuals, each possessing expertise in various fields such as engineering, medicine, chemistry, scientific research, architecture, and related disciplines. They shall join you in your journey to the Philippines, and their collective knowledge and skills shall be instrumental in the island's development and progress. Additionally, to kickstart your agricultural efforts, we offer you 10 tons of agricultural products for you to utilize and propagate. Do you have any further inquiries?" the king inquired with a regal tone. (1 billion pesetas = 6,618,507.82 US Dollar)
Alfonso's heart swelled with gratitude and joy, as his request was met with grace and consideration. "No, Father, thank you for granting me this opportunity and extending your benevolence," he replied with sincerity, hiding the inner excitement that surged within him.
"We shall make the official announcement of this decision to the public tomorrow, so they may be informed of the new chapter ahead. Now, I must ask, when do you plan to embark on your journey to the Philippines?" the king inquired with fatherly concern.
"I am planning to set sail for the Philippines one month from now, Father. I wish to ensure that all necessary preparations are made before my departure," Alfonso responded with determination, his mind already forming plans for the voyage and the future of the Philippine islands.
"Very well then, my son. I shall instruct my attendants to prepare all that you shall need for your voyage and your new role as the Duke of the Orient," the king declared, pride evident in his eyes as he looked upon his son.
With the audience coming to a close, Alfonso respectfully bid his father farewell and left the grand office. As he walked through the palace corridors, a whirlwind of thoughts filled his mind. He contemplated how the public would react to the news of him leaving for the Philippines, and whether his family, the original Alfonso's family, would miss him deeply. With Miguel's soul and memories now residing within him, Alfonso found that he did not harbor the same affection for his family, as he had only recently been transported to this era. Nevertheless, he suppressed such musings, recognizing that these turbulent times demanded his attention and focus. With great resolve, he steeled himself to bring about peace and prosperity to the Philippine islands and its people.
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