The Royal Festival

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Dancing with Shadows


Chapter 4


Life settled into a steady rhythm for Emma at Richard and Kate's cottage. After the incident in the city, Richard and Kate had decided to keep a closer eye on Emma, guiding her activities and ensuring her safety in their world of werewolves.

Over the past month, Emma had become an integral part of their daily life. She helped Richard with his crafting, using her nimble fingers to assist in carving and polishing wooden toys, weaving baskets, and preparing preserves for sale in Life. The time spent working alongside Richard allowed Emma to learn more about the artistry and skill that went into each handmade piece.

On days when they didn't travel to the city, Emma focused her attention on helping Kate around the cottage and the surrounding land. She assisted with household chores, tended to the garden where Kate grew herbs and vegetables, and even learned a few recipes from Kate's extensive repertoire of traditional dishes.

As Emma adjusted to her new routine, she found a sense of fulfilment in the simple tasks and the companionship of Richard and Kate. They shared meals, often gathered around the kitchen table or by the fireplace in the evenings, exchanging stories and laughter.

One sunny afternoon, Emma joined Kate in the garden, their hands busy with the task of harvesting ripe vegetables. The air was crisp with the scent of earth and Emma enjoyed the peaceful solitude of their surroundings.

"You're doing well, Emma," Kate remarked, her voice warm with encouragement. "I appreciate all the help you've been giving us."

Emma smiled gratefully, wiping dirt from a freshly picked carrot. "I'm grateful for everything you and Richard have done for me. Being here with you both—it feels right."

Kate nodded, her expression softening. "You've become like family to us, Emma. We care about you deeply."

Later that evening, Richard sat at the kitchen table, recounting his day's work outside to Emma and Kate. The warm glow of the setting sun filtered through the windows, casting a golden hue over their cosy cottage.

"...and then I finished carving that new set of figurines," Richard was saying, his voice tinged with satisfaction. "I think they'll sell well in the city next time we go."

Emma nodded, her hands resting on her lap as she listened intently. She enjoyed hearing about Richard's craft and the pride he took in each piece he created.

Before Richard could continue, a sharp knock echoed through the cottage, startling them all. Richard glanced at Kate, his brow furrowing in confusion. "I wonder who that could be," he murmured, rising from his chair.

Kate set down her fork and followed Richard to the front door, Emma trailing behind. Richard pulled open the door, revealing a tall, imposing figure dressed in the King's guard uniform. The guard held out a sealed letter, his expression solemn.

"Good evening," the guard greeted, his voice steady. "I have a message for Richard and Kate of this household."

Richard exchanged a puzzled glance with Kate before accepting the letter. He broke the seal and quickly scanned its contents, his expression shifting from confusion to surprise.

"It's from the palace," Richard murmured, his eyes scanning the text. "It's about the upcoming royal festival and the arrival of the royal family in a few weeks."

Kate leaned in, her curiosity piqued. "What does it say?"

Richard cleared his throat before reading aloud. "It says that preparations are underway for the annual festival celebrating the summer solstice. The royal family will be arriving in Life in a few weeks to participate in the festivities. The guards are delivering these letters to everyone near and far to inform them of the event."

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