NARRATOR

Katherine watched the lively scene in the dining hall, observing the struggles of their guest families.

Though they had started to relax, their discomfort with many things was still obvious.

They had discussed it, and they would live in houses near the forest, under the castle’s protection.

The women would take on important roles under the Duchess’s administration, serving as her support.

By the time night fell, Katherine had already arranged for them to stay in the guest wing, with th