A week later, the castle had been transformed again. Golden banners hung in the great hall: the color of autumn and harvest. Lanterns swayed in the gardens, their flames already lit despite the morning light. The kitchen smelled of roasted meat, harvest pies, and different kinds of bread. Alcohol was stored in barrels taller than Evelyn.
The harvest festival was the one event where the castle opened for everyone.
The sewing circle didn't stop for festivals, but the mood was lighter. Marguerite was sewing a sleeve while describing her dress for the evening, and Evelyn was wondering whether kitchen staff would be allowed to dance this year as well.
The festival night was one night where nobody had to perform their usual roles; they could simply be themselves. But it had rules.
The festival opening was a formal event. The duke and his companion led the first waltz. Tonight, according to the tradition, Austin belonged to Audrey.
