Winter had crept up like a stalking cat, ready to pounce on Emilia like like a harried mouse. It almost felt like she blinked and the autumn vanished, with the Winter Solstice at the door. In fact, the solstice was tomorrow.
Emilia and Faren’s day would be filled with quiet rituals like hanging evergreen wreaths in their home, burning a sacred Yule log, sipping spiced wine and exchanging gifts with one another. It was a holiday for every fairy, and there would be no work for royalty and servants alike. Then under the light of the first winter’s moon, the palace would host a feast beside a massive bonfire. The palace-folk would dine on a simple menu roasted nuts, caraway buns, and a stew of pork and winter vegetables and dance beside the fire in celebration. Then, once the young and old h
