"Yes, it feels as though it has been many moons since we last spoke," Ned replies, nodding his agreement as he draws closer. He's already noticed the envelope, of course, but he makes a good show of pretending he's none the wiser as to what might be taking place. "I believe the last we spoke was when I was planting the Weirwood sapling just sound of my home, if I am to remember correctly."

He had, of course, seen her about the village - but he or she were always otherwise preoccupied with other things. He had reminded himself to go and check on her, but something always seemed to interrupt his ability to do so.

"And I do take on the burden of responsibility myself; I should have come by to see you. I hope you can forgive me for failing to do so."