章 60: Chapter 59 The Spark

--- 3rd Person Point of View ---

--- 24th of March 1897 ---

The forceful gust of wind brushes against the man's face as the ship he presently boarded crosses the East China Sea, heading back to his destination. The man, in his early 40s, possesses a solemn yet dignified countenance as he gazes upon the dark sea, journeying toward his homeland named Butuan.

This individual happens to be the current ambassador to Joseon from the Empire of Butuan, Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc. Having spent months in the capital of Joseon, he bore witness to the unfolding events in that land: the reign of King Gojong until his downfall, succeeded by his son, King Sunjong, all transpiring under the influence of the Japanese.

The escalating mistreatment and unequal treatment faced by both his people and the Koreans at the hands of the Japanese military deeply troubled him. The plundering and open disrespect directed at him by these individuals were experiences both witnessed and endured by Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc and his people.

Presently aboard the BEB Palau, a Mindanao class ship reminiscent of the Mersey class ship of the British Royal Navy, the vessel is armed with 2 × BL 8-inch (203.2 mm) Mk IV guns, 10 × BL 6-inch (152.4 mm) guns, 3 × QF 6 pounder, 3 × 3 pounder QF, 9 × machine guns, and 2 × torpedo tubes. Despite the heavy armaments and protection of this armored cruiser, three protected cruiser ships are positioned around it, serving as the initial line of defense.

The extensive security measures are warranted due to the passenger on board the BEB Palau, aside from the captain and crew: Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc, his family, and senior government officials of the Embassy of Butuan in Joseon. The other members of the diplomatic contingent are being accommodated by the three escorting protected cruisers.

While Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc stands gazing at the expansive blue expanse known as the East Qing Sea, a vast body of water separating the Empire of Japan and the Qing Dynasty, sudden recollections of events flood his mind. These recollections entail the series of negotiations spanning months and days, culminating in his, his family's, and his entire team's evacuation from Joseon.

Almost a day, or not more than 24 hours, have passed since Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc and his entire family, along with their people, fled Joseon. This was triggered by the Japanese military's actions, which began ransacking the homes of Butuanon diplomats on suspicion of supporting the Southern Faction and undermining the Japanese government's presence in the peninsula.

Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc saw this as a clear violation of the treaty between Joseon and Butuan, which stated that the official offices and residences of diplomatic groups were not part of the host country but belonged to their respective countries.

This incident didn't just upset Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc and the Butuan diplomatic group; it also alarmed the diplomatic ministers of Western countries. They found the Japanese actions concerning and, in response, decided to relocate their people's residences to Peking instead of Joseon for safety reasons.

Known for his integrity and pride, Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc formally protested to King Sunjong about the increasing harassment his people and others faced at the hands of the Japanese military in the peninsula. The protest condemned the Japanese actions. However, instead of a positive response, Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc received only indifference and neglect from the King himself, much to his disappointment.

King Sunjong's actions raised significant concerns for Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc regarding the safety of his men and family residing in Hanseong, the old name for Seoul. Therefore, upon receiving the unsatisfactory reply from King Sunjong, Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc promptly sent a telegraph to the government of Sooraj on March 15th, seeking assistance in repatriating himself, his men, and their families.

Subsequently, on March 20th, Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc received a reply informing him that Captain Devdutt Singh and his team were en route to Hanseong to facilitate their repatriation. Despite the relief this news brought, the waiting period for the ships to arrive in Hanseong remained quite lengthy.

As they continued living in the capital of Joseon, the Japanese maintained surveillance over the members of the Butuan diplomatic group in Joseon. Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc and his team also noticed a significant increase in the Japanese empire's military presence.

Despite these circumstances, Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc managed to secretly meet with the new leader of the Southern Faction following the deaths of Minister Min Young-ik and former Minister of War Yi Ha-je. The meeting was held outside the capital in secrecy to evade the scrutiny of King Sunjong and the Japanese.

After the purge of Southern Faction members, Minister Yi Ha-je went into hiding with others, while some chose to remain in the capital in governmental roles. Yi Ha-je and his group, fleeing the capital, began recruiting men to oppose both the Japanese forces and King Sunjong's loyalists upon learning that King Gojong and his family were safe in Sooraj.

With his time in Joseon drawing to a close, Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc took a considerable risk and met secretly with Minister Yi Ha-je, informing him about the alliance between King Gojong and Emperor Siagu XV. Yi Ha-je welcomed this alliance, seeing it as an opportunity for King Gojong to reclaim the throne from his treacherous son. This news moved Yi Ha-je deeply, especially considering his age and desire to depart from this world.

Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc also shared Butuan's plan to attack the Japanese and reclaim the Korean Peninsula, receiving assurance from Yi Ha-je that they would collaborate with the Butuanon Imperial Military to liberate Joseon and restore King Gojong to the throne.

After hours of intense discussions, both parties parted ways, exchanging crucial information. Among the revelations was the Japanese military's brutal actions against a small mountain village in Northern Joseon, suspected to harbor members of the Southern Faction. The Japanese forces ravaged the village, leaving no survivors, which shocked and angered both Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc and the members of the Southern Faction.

This atrocity reminded Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc of a similar massacre in Hanseong during a peasant uprising against the Japanese. He vowed to report this incident to Emperor Siagu XV at the earliest opportunity.

On March 23, 1897, Captain Devdutt Singh's ships clandestinely arrived in Joseon, evading Japanese patrols due to the small and outdated nature of the Japanese navy. Upon their arrival, Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc, his family, and his team departed Hanseong secretly, escorted by the Southern Faction of Joseon.

(a/n: Hanseong is the old name of Seoul, South Korea)

It was a tense night for the escaping team, knowing that one wrong move could lead to their arrest or even worse, their death for being out at night. At this time, King Sunjong of Japan had imposed a mandatory curfew on all members of the diplomatic team, forbidding them from leaving their homes during the night. This was the reason why the team was now escaping cautiously and silently.

The Butuanon diplomatic team had once considered seeking help from the Joseon royal army, with whom they had been acquainted for some time before King Sunjong's coup. However, their fear of betrayal held them back. They were reminded that, by then, the Joseon army was just a shadow of its former self, overshadowed by the increasing presence of the Japanese Imperial Army stationed in the peninsula.

As they made their escape that night, Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc and his entire team couldn't help but feel humiliated for having to escape in secrecy. They vowed that once safely back in their homeland, Prime Minister Aguinaldo and His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Siagu XV, would hear of their experiences and observations during their stay in Joseon.

During their escape, they failed to notice a shadowy figure following them for a few minutes before hurrying back to where they came from.

Now aboard the ship sailing towards Sooraj, Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc failed to notice a man in his early 40s, dressed in the standard Butuanon Imperial Navy captain's uniform. This man stood at a height of 171 cm (5'6 ft), slightly shorter than Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc, who was 176.7 cm (5'8 ft) tall. Despite his serious and handsome countenance, it was hard to believe he was already in his 40s.

This man was Captain Devdutt Singh, also known as Captain Gutter for his skill in close combat, where he once famously gutted his pirate opponent during a conquest in the West Butuan Sea against piracy.

Despite his modest stature, Captain Singh walked confidently toward the ambassador, proudly displaying his badges and awards earned during his 20 years of service in the Butuanon Imperial Navy. He had witnessed battles that almost defied reality, especially during the empire's campaign against piracy in the Butuan waters.

These experiences had rendered him emotionally resilient, a quality necessary for his role as a military officer. He had risen to the rank of Lieutenant Commander under the command of Vice Admiral Alexander, Marquess of Siargao, Viscount of Siargao, and Baron of Dapa.

Under the command of Vice Admiral Alexander, Lieutenant Commander Devdutt Singh faced further challenges as Vice Admiral Alexander subjected him and others to rigorous regimental training, which was expected given his lineage as a descendant of a warrior clan from the Imperial Family.

"Good day, Ambassador," Captain Devdutt Singh said, saluting the ambassador.

Captain Devdutt's words brought Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc back to reality after minutes spent contemplating the plight of himself, his family, and his entire team's escape from the forsaken kingdom of Joseon.

"Captain Devdutt," Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc replied with a nod, acknowledging the captain's presence. Captain Devdutt then approached the ambassador, who stood behind the ship's railings.

"You should rest, Ambassador. We are still a considerable distance from the nearest island of our homeland," Captain Devdutt suggested, noticing that Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc hadn't slept since the previous night.

"Sigh. Even if I wished to, I cannot. The Japanese threat persists until we enter the territorial waters of our homeland," Ambassador Nguyễn Văn Phúc remarked calmly, gazing at the serene waves of the East Qing Sea.

"Do you know what's ironic, Captain Devdutt?" Ambassador Văn Phúc continued, still focused on the tranquil sea.

"What is it, Ambassador?" Captain Devdutt replied, slightly confused, while observing Ambassador Văn Phúc.

In Captain Devdutt's view, staying awake for two consecutive nights was both commendable and foolish. He believed rest was crucial, especially in such circumstances. He couldn't understand why Ambassador Văn Phúc was so stressed. Although they were still at sea under Japanese control, he was confident that the Japanese wouldn't be reckless enough to attack a ship from a more powerful nation.

In the waters surrounding Butuan, the Butuanon Imperial Navy held dominance. Neither countries nor pirates dared challenge their authority in this region. This was why Captain Devdutt was certain that the Japanese wouldn't attack. Moreover, with a lookout constantly monitoring their surroundings and the three protected cruisers armed with their respective weaponry, he was confident they would detect any threats and defend themselves accordingly.

The one responsible for keeping watch over their entire journey is currently asleep at his post, oblivious to the unusual silence that pervades. Unfortunately, neither his crewmates nor the captain notice this absence. Meanwhile, misfortune seems to envelop the entire fleet. Due to the watchman's absence, something looms unnoticed on the distant horizon behind the BEB Palau fleet. A fleet of Japanese ships is heading towards the BEB Palau's fleet with a single intent: to sink the entire fleet.

However, Ambassador Văn Phúc's wakefulness isn't solely due to stress. It's the concern for his family, peacefully asleep below deck alongside other key members of the diplomatic team and the crew, that keeps him vigilant. The fear of endangering his wife, son, and daughter due to their current location keeps him on edge.

"Despite the vastness and dangers of the ocean, it still exhibits beauty and tranquility—a stark contrast to its ferocity during the day and stormy weather... Sigh... I just hope we can navigate this part of the ocean without trouble," remarks Ambassador Văn Phúc, his tone serious, before turning his worried gaze towards Captain Devdutt.

"Heh! The Japanese wouldn't dare attack us in this region, Mr. Ambassador. Any aggression toward us would spark a war between our country and Japan—a war the Japanese are ill-prepared for militarily. Moreover, our fleet's armaments are not mere decoration; they can shield us in times of battle. Nonetheless, we both hope it won't come to that," states Captain Devdutt in a serious tone.

"I certainly hope so, Captain," replies Ambassador Văn Phúc, before returning his attention to the serene ocean, resuming their conversation. "By the way, any updates from the capital or His Majesty before you and your fleet set sail for Hanseong?"

"Mm-Hmm... His Majesty wishes you and the entire diplomatic team a safe return from our voyage. However, he's displeased with what the Japanese did to all of you in the peninsula. He promises to take action with support from King Gojong and Prime Minister Aguinaldo, ensuring the Japanese Imperial Military stationed in the peninsula answers for their actions," responds Captain Devdutt, lighting a cigarette and offering one to Ambassador Văn Phúc, who accepts it.

"I understand. That's great news, Captain," smiled Ambassador Văn Phúc as he nodded at Captain Devdutt. "So, this is the BEB Palau, right?" The ambassador's gaze swept across the entire interior of the ship.

Even though Ambassador Văn Phúc had spent quite some time on the ship, he had never delved into its specific details. All he knew was that it belonged to the Mindanao class, an armored cruiser, and was one of the powerful vessels of the Butuanon Imperial Navy.

"Yes, she's my steadfast companion on the sea," replied Captain Devdutt, his hand tracing the ship's railings. "She's been by my side since I took on the role of Captain, along with those three protected cruisers, all under Vice Admiral Alexander's command."

For Captain Devdutt, the BEB Palau was more than a ship; it was his very essence. It symbolized his dedication and love for his country. Upon his promotion to Captain of the BEB Palau, he pledged to remain unmarried, dedicating his life solely to the Imperial Family and the motherland—a decision he never regretted.

"I see... She's quite formidable, isn't she?" inquired Ambassador Văn Phúc, curiosity lighting up his expression as he observed the imposing guns lining the ship's sides. Some appeared massive, while others, though smaller, carried an undeniable air of potency.

"Yes, indeed. A Mindanao class ship, somewhat akin to the Mersey class of the British Royal Navy. She was constructed at the shipyard in the city of Davao, under the Golden Anchor Shipyards.

The ship is armed with 2 × BL 8-inch (203.2 mm) Mk IV guns, 10 × BL 6-inch (152.4 mm) guns, 3 × QF 6-pounder guns, 3 × 3-pounder QF guns, 9 × machine guns, and 2 × torpedo tubes. She is a formidable vessel. Additionally, she boasts a speed of 18 knots (33 km/h) powered by 6,000 ihp." Captain Devdutt nodded in agreement before continuing. "We've undertaken numerous voyages, patrolling and defending our homeland at sea. She is my essence and spirit; without her, my life as a naval captain holds no meaning."

The Golden Anchor Shipyards holds the title of the largest shipbuilding company within the Butuan Empire. Presently, the government owns a significant 60% of its total shares, while the remaining 40% belongs to the Imperial Clan of Shaja. Originally, the shipyards were solely under the control of the Imperial Clan of Shaja, who were its founding members.

However, following the Butuan-Siam versus Britain-France war and the enforced adoption of the 1880 Imperial Constitution of Butuan, the Imperial Clan had to relinquish 60% ownership of all their companies to the government. Consequently, they retained only 40% ownership, and the constitution barred them from selling their shares or allowing other entities to own these companies, except for the imperial clan and the government.

Despite losing complete control over the entire empire, the Imperial Clan of Shaja, along with its 350 cadet clans, remains renowned as the wealthiest and most influential figures in the nation.

"It's truly heartening to hear. It seems like she can hold her own against any ship from the Japanese Imperial Navy," nodded Ambassador Văn Phúc upon learning about the armaments installed on the BEB Palau. "The government in Sooraj has truly excelled in dispatching you and your fleet to aid us, Captain."

"Hahahaha! No need for such words, Ambassador. We're all part of the Empire's family, and as siblings, regardless of our backgrounds, it's our duty to assist each other," replied Captain Devdutt with profound respect, watching the Empire's flag and the Imperial family's banner flutter in the sea breeze.

"Aye! For the Empire," exclaimed Ambassador Văn Phúc energetically as he placed his hand behind Captain Devdutt's back, a gesture reciprocated with equal enthusiasm by Captain Devdutt.

"For the Empire," Captain Devdutt replied with a smile.

As the two engaged in conversation, they were unaware of the stationed watchman having fallen asleep, leaving the majority of the people from the four sailing ships resting below deck. Only Ambassador Văn Phúc and Captain Devdutt remained on the upper deck, gazing out at the vast ocean before them, oblivious to the approaching threat—a fleet of ten imposing ships from the Japanese Imperial Navy.

Leading this fleet was an ironclad battleship under the command of Captain Nagano Naoharu (永野直虎), accompanied by smaller vessels sailing alongside it. The battleship, named Chin Yen by the Japanese Imperial Navy following its acquisition during the Sino-Japanese War, loomed on the horizon, signaling potential trouble ahead.

Inside the ship is its captain, Captain Nagano Naoharu (永野直虎), and his entire crew. All of them are looking at the sailing fleet of Butuan the same way a predator is looking at its prey.

"Taichō-den, teki to no kyori ga kōgeki-kennai ni hairi mashita. Teki wa mada waga-waga no sonzai ni kizuite inai yō desu (Captain, the distance is now enough to launch an attack. It has also appeared to be that they have not yet noticed our presence behind them.)" A naval commander under Captain Nagano said while standing behind the captain himself while wearing a smile of excitement and reverence.

After hearing the words from his commander, Captain Nagano then slowly nod with a smile on his face before replying to his commander's words.

"Subarashī! Kono kaiiki no haja wa mōhaya karera de wa nai to iu koto o karera ni shimesō. Kono kaiiki wa, Meiji Tennō to Dai Nippon Teikoku no tōchi ka ni aru no da! Hōgeki kaishi! (Great! Let us show to these people that they are not now the overlord of the sea in this part of the world. This is now under the control of Emperor Meiji and the Japanese Empire! Fire!)" Captain Nagano commanded and with that all 10 ships of the Japanese Imperial Navy started firing their guns and cannons.

*BOOM!*

*SPLASH!*

The resounding echoes of cannonballs striking the waters caused damage to four ships of the Butuanon Imperial Navy.

Before Ambassador Văn Phúc and Captain Devdutt could react, a sudden explosion rocked the ship. On their left, one of the protected cruiser ships, part of their escort, burst into flames. Events unfolded rapidly; following the initial impact on the cruiser, another explosion erupted, engulfing the entire ship in a blazing inferno.

It was a scene from hell. Ambassador Văn Phúc couldn't help but think that after witnessing the devastation of the protected ship. Despite their distance from the now burning vessel, screams of agony, pleas for help, and cries reverberated across the sea, shattering the once serene and dark night, now consumed by clamor and fiery turmoil.

The moment had arrived. The Japanese had made their move. War was now inevitable.