The path ahead won’t be without challenges, but for the first time, I can see it clearly—a future where Rangi stands beside me not just in private moments but in the full light of day, acknowledged and accepted as part of my life, part of the modern monarchy we’re building together.
One step at a time.
15
RANGI
The celebration dinner in the Crimson Dining Room lives up to its name—rich red walls adorned with gilt-framed portraits, dark wood furniture polished to a mirror shine, and crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow over the intimate gathering. Despite the formal setting, the atmosphere is relaxed as the royal family and close allies toast the successful signing of the Future of Astipia Act.
“To the ancestors,” Kit raises her glass, her crown replaced with a simple gold circlet for this private celebration. “May their stories endure for generations to come.”
“To the ancestors,” we echo, glasses lifting in unison.
I catch Leo’s eye across the table, a private smile passing between us. The journey to this moment has been arduous, filled with political manoeuvring and personal revelations, yet somehow, we’ve emerged victorious on both fronts.
“And to unlikely alliances,” Charlotte adds, her mischievous gaze moving deliberately between Leo and me. “May they continue to flourish.”
I suppress a smile as Leo’s cheeks colour slightly. Despite our carefully orchestrated public appearance earlier today, it’s clear his family considers our relationship far more established than we’ve officially acknowledged.
Leo’s still finding his way with us. Feeling it out in public, testing how much he can let himself show. And that’s okay, because I’m not waiting for grand declarations or certainty wrapped in ribbons. I don’t need a royal proclamation to know what’s real between us.
Every glance. Every quiet touch. Every time he softens just for me—that’s enough. I don’t know where this road ends, or how long it’ll take him to say the words I’ve already whispered in the dark. But I do know that I’m exactly where I need to be.
By his side. Loving him.
His hand finds my leg under the table, squeezing.
“I’m still surprised this worked,” my brother says, slicing into his steak. “I expected the mining companies to put up a greater fight.”
“People are predictable,” Kit says with the casual cynicism I’ve come to recognize as her particular brand of realism. “Combine babies, tradition, and patriotism, and suddenly everyone develops a conscience.”
“You say that like it’s a bad thing,” Leo counters, amusement evident in his tone.
“Not bad,” she corrects, “just convenient. I’m merely observing that the same legislators who were prepared to sell our heritage to the highest bidder a month ago are now falling over themselves to be associated with the protection act.”
“Politics,” Elder Kiri comments dryly from her place of honour beside Kit. “Some things never change, regardless of era.”
The elder’s presence at this intimate family dinner is yet another signal of how the boundaries are shifting. Not just between Leo and me, but between royal tradition and tribal culture. Her inclusion tonight reflects a deeper integration that goes beyond political alliance.
“Speaking of politics,” Roy says, “what’s the next step now that the Act is signed?”
Leo answers, his expertise evident as he outlines the implementation timeline and governance structure for the new heritage trust. I watch him as he speaks, admiring the easy confidence with which he navigates these complex issues. This is the Leo few outside the palace walls get to see—brilliant, passionate, deeply committed to the welfare of his people.
“The tribal council will select their representatives next month,” he explains, “and the Crown appointees will be announced before the winter solstice. We should have the first protected sites formally designated by spring.”
“Including the Valley of Whispers?” Elder Kiri inquires, her keen eyes missing nothing.
“Especially the Valley,” Leo confirms. “It’s first on the list.”
The conversation continues through multiple courses—succulent roast lamb, seasonal vegetables prepared with herbs from the palace gardens, bread that Elder Kiri compliments with genuine enthusiasm. Throughout, I’m struck by the natural inclusivity of this family gathering, how easily I’ve been welcomed into their inner circle.
“Captain Rangi,” Kit addresses me directly as servants clear the dessert plates, “I understand you’ll be representing the tribal council at the international heritage conference next month.”
“That’s right, Your Majesty.”
“Excellent. Leo will be attending as the Crown’s representative.” Her expression is all innocence, though her intent is as transparent as a window. “Perhaps you could coordinate your presentations? A unified approach would send a powerful message about Astipia’s commitment to cultural integration.”
Leo catches my eye, his lips twitching with poorly suppressed amusement. “What a surprising suggestion, Kit. I never would have thought of that.”
