“In honour of all the children in our kingdom,” Kit continues, “whose future we seek to secure, I hereby establish the Royal Heritage Trust, to be administered jointly by the Crown and tribal representatives in perpetuity.”
The applause is genuine and enthusiastic, even from those who had initially opposed the measure. Kit had been right—framing the act as a celebration of royal heirs made opposition politically untenable. Even Prime Minister Beesley manages to look pleased as she adds her signature to the document.
As the ceremony concludes and we begin the careful choreography of royal departure, I catch Elder Kiri watching Rangi and me with that knowing expression that seems to see through all pretence.
“A good day,” she comments as we pass. “For many reasons.”
“Indeed,” I agree, understanding the layers of her meaning.
“The ancestors would be pleased,” she adds, her gaze moving deliberately between Rangi and me. “To see such... cooperation.”
Rangi inclines his head respectfully. “We can only hope to honour their legacy, Elder.”
“Oh, I think you’re doing quite well at that.” Her smile holds a knowing look. “The stars align as they will, after all.”
With that cryptic comment, she moves away to join the other tribal representatives, leaving us to follow the royal procession back into the palace.
“What did she mean by that?” I ask Rangi quietly as we walk.
His smile is warm, private. “She was referring to the constellation story she told at breakfast that day. Ahkenti and Mirakan, the warrior lovers placed among the stars.”
“Ah.” I feel a flush warming my cheeks. “So she was being...”
“Supportive, in her own way.” Rangi’s shoulder brushes mine as we walk, the contact casual enough to appear coincidental to observers but deliberate enough that I feel its intention. “Like your sister, but with more mysticism and fewer direct orders.”
I laugh softly. “A terrifying combination.”
“A comforting one,” he corrects.
As we re-enter the palace, away from the press and public eyes, Victoria approaches with her ever-present tablet.
“Your Highness, the initial reactions are overwhelmingly positive,” she informs me. “Both to the Act itself and to the... family presentation.”
“Family presentation?” I repeat.
Victoria’s expression remains professional, but I detect a hint of amusement in her eyes. “That’s how the press is describing it—the royal family and their tribal advisor sharing knowledge. Several outlets have specifically noted the ‘natural rapport’ between yourself and Captain Rangi with the royal children.”
I glance at Rangi, who maintains an admirably straight face despite the humour I can see dancing in his eyes.
“Well,” I say carefully, “cultural exchange is an important aspect of modern monarchy.”
“Indeed, Your Highness.” Victoria taps something on her tablet. “Her Majesty has requested your presence for a private family dinner this evening to celebrate the signing. Seven o’clock in the Crimson Dining Room.”
“We’ll be there,” I assure her.
When she departs, Rangi turns to me with raised eyebrows. “Cultural exchange?”
“Well, it’s not entirely inaccurate,” I point out, feeling a smile tugging at my lips. “We have been... exchanging quite a lot lately.”
“Is that what we’re calling it now?” He steps closer, his voice dropping to a register that sends a pleasant shiver down my spine. “Because I can think of several other terms.”
“Perhaps you could demonstrate some of those terms later,” I suggest, glancing around to confirm we’re momentarily unobserved. “For educational purposes, of course.”
His laugh is warm and private. “Cultural education is very important, Your Highness. I’d be happy to provide averythorough lesson.”
“Seven o’clock is hours away,” I note, already turning toward my quarters. “Plenty of time for an in-depth discussion.”
As we make our way through the palace corridors, maintaining a discreet distance while our eyes promise something entirely different, I realize that today marks a turning point. We aren’t fully public, not yet, but the first steps have been taken. The careful introduction has begun, guided by Kit’s strategic hand and supported by those who matter most.
