A Holiday by Decree
~~Day 11~~
Dear Sansa,
You have not yet been gone a fortnight, as I write this, but you are already sorely missed. Still, I hope that you are resting and enjoying the South. Of course, the North is cold as ever, with fresh snow just last night. Arya is handling your duties well, thanks to coordinated minding from Gendry and myself. Even so, Winterfell feels your absence.
While a return to your duties should remain out of your mind for some days yet, an update per House Karstark's tradeship schedule at today's small council meeting makes it incumbent on me to indicate The Snow Spear will make port where you are in a week and a day's time to bring you home.
Looking forward to your return and hearing of your adventure.
Yours in loyal friendship, Brienne
Sansa missed Brienne dearly, but laying in bed just after dawn, having reviewed and set aside her letter again, she wished not to know about the ship returning to get her. Still, she also could not help the buzz of excitement already flowing through her at the thought of the day she and Tyrion already had planned.
The evening before, Sansa had slept early but not before taking a light meal and bathing in her rooms. It was when it was time for her bath that she saw Hirat again for the first time since the maid had helped Tyrion.
As soon as Hirat had entered after Sansa's dinner, Sansa called her over to her. Obedient, the young girl did so, but Sansa could tell that she was nervous, so she asked to take her hands in her own. Then, with a warm squeeze, Sansa had thanked her from the bottom of her heart, bringing wide smiles to both their faces. With the thought of Brienne's letter fresh in mind, it only made Sansa all the more regretful of having to eventually part with such a sweet new ally.
Happily, Hirat had helped Sansa bathe and dress again for bed. It was when she returned with Sansa's bedtime tea, that she brought a message.
"My Lady, the staff are going to the royal ranch on the morrow. As the King and Queen also enjoy day trips to the ranch, Lord Tyrion wishes to know if you would like to accompany him to take in the sights on the way to and at this place?" Hirat relayed.
Sansa had agreed enthusiastically. If the date of her departure was drawing near, she did not want to waste a moment of the remaining time she had in this magical place and with Tyrion.
"Excellent, my Lady, the staff will prepare accordingly. I will also accompany you and prepare travel clothes fitting of our local styles for you to make you comfortable on the road."
So when the sun was a little higher in the sky, Sansa thrilled at the click of the door latch, signaling it was time to prepare for the day.