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Epilogue
The villagers continued to rejoice. As did the farmers, the shopkeepers, and the engineers who had moved here to work on the energy systems and other improvements. Basically, everyone rejoiced. Except probably the High Council, and I’d likely made an enemy there, but it had been worth it.
Because we’d all worked so hard for our freedom, and nobody was going to seize it from us. No matter what we had to do to keep their freedom. I was very ready to move forward without impediment. And, a few months after the battle, the solar field and all the wind turbines were ready to be put into action. We’d been testing them, but this day, or rather this night, would be the first time it all came online.
Most of the homes and businesses were wired and ready to receive the juice that would change everything for so many. We still had a lot of projects to continue, but wouldn’t that always be the case? Finding the things my people needed and ways to meet those needs filled me with fierce joy.
I had wanted to see this miracle of light from the tower where I’d spent so much time, but my mates pointed out that the balcony off my suite offered a better view and also made it possible for me to address a gathering of my subjects below. When we stepped outside, the courtyard below was packed with people. They milled around, speaking quietly, but as soon as they saw us, they burst into applause and cheers.
I lifted a hand and they quieted. “My people,” I began, “thank you for coming here on this memorable day. We have been through so much together, I hope that we will always remember how we got here. In just a moment, the new energy grid will be coming online, and you’ll probably all want to go home and watch something streaming online, but first, I would like to make sure you know that none of the good things we are sharing going forward could have happened without the hard work and bravery of all of you. We have so many goals, so many plans together, and you’ll have stories to tell your children and grandchildren of both before now and after. They will never have to endure the hardships you did, and I am endlessly grateful for that.”
I studied those who stood below, watched their hands come together and their mouths move. The periods of silence were coming closer together, and soon, they would be constant. But it would be all right. Even now, Leif was moving his hands at his sides, reminding me we would need someone to sign when I gave speeches, so people who couldn’t hear wouldn’t be left out. The minister of education was making great strides in the area of inclusivity, so no child would feel they had to beg to go to school again. Or feel left out if they did.
As a people we were creating an extraordinary kingdom. One that would continue to be mostly separate from the rest of the world because we liked it that way. But one whose people could feel comfortable anywhere because they had the confidence that came from success.
I held my hand up high and brought it down, and the courtyard lit up. As did the palace, and so many houses off into the distance. I heard their cheers then.
And when I asked my mates all to stay with me, just stay together for the night, I heard their assents. After such an emotional day, I needed only their arms around me to feel completely happy, warm, and safe. And loved. Always loved.
