Harry’s maroon sash is a key symbol of The Longing for Connection and Belonging and is a physical representation of her inclusion, belonging, and, ultimately, love for the Hillfolk. 

The maroon sash first appears in the story as part of the Hillfolk’s military and cultural tradition, worn by the Riders. Mathin gives it to her to wear to the laprun trials. When it is cut during her final duel with Corlath, and she repairs it afterward, it becomes a badge of honor. In a society where clothing and visual markers signify both rank and allegiance, the sash visibly affirms Harry’s transformation from foreigner to Hill warrior. It distinguishes her as one of the king’s chosen and affirms her right to fight beside her comrades. Although she was not born into Damarian culture, the sash declares that she is now of the Hills. The color of the sash itself carries connotations, evoking both the shade of dried blood and dyed earth. As such, the sash reflects Harry’s commitment to the land she has come to love and the blood she will shed for it.

Despite her growing attachment to Damar, Harry continues to straddle two worlds: The Homeland she comes from, and the Hillfolk she has joined. When Harry, against Corlath’s orders, rides west with Terim and Senay to get Jack Dedham’s help, she accidentally leaves her sash behind. Temporarily losing the sash signifies a break with the obligations and expectations of her. In essence, it makes her “no one” so she can cross cultural lines and engage with the Homeland once more.

When Harry returns to Corlath after the battle, it is to find him wearing her sash, signaling not only his forgiveness of her leaving, but his trust and love. Harry never gets the sash back from him; instead, he gives her his sash to wear as a signifier of their betrothal, solidifying the equality between them.