The Old Duke raised his glass, slightly nodded in Duke's direction, and then drank it all in one go.
Duke also raised his glass in return, toasting back to him.
The banquet continued, the crisp clash of utensils intertwined with the crackling of apple wood burning in the fireplace, occasionally interrupted by the babbling of Rein's little daughter, which was soon followed by laughter from everyone.
Outside the window, the night grew deeper, the wheat fields of Maple Hill County sank into silence under the moonlight, while the old banquet hall in the castle was warmer than ever.
...
The next morning, when Duke woke up in the guest room bed of the castle, there was still a thin morning mist outside the window.
He had a simple breakfast in the castle's dining room, where Vivian was already waiting for him at the door.
She had changed outfits today, no longer wearing the light blue gown from last night but instead had on her more customary attire.
