12th Moon, 144 AC

Castle Hornwood

To My Sister,

I apologize for my delayed response to your letter. Duties here keep me occupied most of the day and prevent more regular and consistent letter writing.

I am happy to hear you are well and that little Eadwin is growing strong - doubtless he will make a great Hornwood once he is a full man. As to your question: I do not know when I shall be able to visit, as I have mentioned: my duties are many and complicated. Bar certain, severe circumstances, leaving Winterfell is unlikely.

How has father been? And Serena? I know she spends more of her days with mother than anyone else. I can only imagine how quiet it must be right now.

I hope Winter treats you well and I should like to see you soon,

Lovingly,

Eadhelm Hornwood

Matilda rested the letter on her bedside table. It was late and Errol was still on patrol. Eadwin was in his own chambers, probably reading. The boy was curious and, when not in the company of the other young boys of the castle, seemed most happy in the company of Maester Rickard. She wondered if Eadwin would like his uncle. Love him.

It had been some months since Hallis had returned. Hrothwell had offered him his old room and "Mad Hal" had taken to scouting the woods for wildlings. Although, in her evening wanderings, Matilda had found her cousin resting in the quiet corners of the castle, muttering to himself and staring at the trees. What is it he sees? she had thought to herself again and again. The dreams had ceased for Matilda when she had become pregnant and had remained only distant memories. Perhaps Hal was having them again.

Serena she thought as she looked back at the letter. How to even begin? Matilda had worried about her sister since she had come back from her "becoming." She found some paper and a pen, setting about writing a response.

To My Brother,

It is good to hear from you. I understand your duties must be greatly distracting! Father is fine - though his age and sickness, I fear, may take him soon. He rarely leaves his chambers. Serena is well, so far as I can tell. She does indeed spend most of her time in mother's company and the company of her "sisters."

Additionally, cousin Hal has returned! He arrived just after my previous letter and seems to be in good spirits. The south treated him well, it seems.

With Affections Great and Small,

Matilda Hornwood