The Queen flew with her ravens while the Butterfly Maiden walked the castle in her stead.

The Maiden smiled as she walked, the panels of her dress fluttering behind. All Hallows Eve was behind her and and then…she saw something. She blinked and looked again. What was it?

The Butterfly Maiden blinked once more. But it was gone, like one of the faeries that chattered and laughed in the garden.
She frowned and then she smiled because after the harvest feast, the season of reds, greens golds and silver would be here. The walls of the castle would sparkle and glow with banners and mistletoe.

And outside on every door a Christmas wreath of tinsel, ribbons and bells. Pine cones drizzled with snow welcome all within the castle walls.

When would the Queen return? She flew with her ravens far and wide. For now her castle was safe with the Butterfly maiden and the dragon.