Who: Kaelyn Stark to Diane Frey What: A Letter When: Dated May 4, arriving by raven on May 9 Status: Closed, unless someone sneaks a peek at it.
Diane, We're at Lord Harroway's Town and turning back to King's Landing. My lord husband received a letter yesterday: the king has named him Hand. I begged him to let myself and the children continue on, but he will not hear of it. He insists that our family not be broken- as if any longer in that cursed city will not do more damage than all the leagues between here and Ashai might. We had left Lyanora and Elix in the city already as the king's honored guests, which I gather is the Targaryen way of saying "well-kept prisoners." But at least Elix might find a husband and a chance at happiness there- Winterfell has not brought a smile to her face for near as long as I have known her. Not that I dare say a word to William: his love of the North is too complete.
Genna has been wretched this entire trip. Nothing but tantrums, sulks and tears. I found myself wishing we had left her: at least Elix is quiet in her misery. Ah but now she's all smiles and light. If joy was personified I think it would look something like Genna when I told her we were returning to Kings Landing. I cannot quite decide whether she does not understand a thing about the court or if she understands too well. I'm not sure which would be worse. It must be a jest of the gods that William and I created that child. I give him more credit than myself, I think- he is the one who insists on indulging her every whim. Between him and now Jaehaerys who treats her like a favorite lapdog, I have no hope.
Forgive me, I wander from my purpose: I would invite you to come to Kings Landing. I curse the city, but it is at least a city and there are plenty of distractions to be found and I know you would like a reprieve from the Twins. You would be welcome to stay with us in the Tower of the Hand, but we might find you a suitable suite within the Red Keep itself if you prefer. If you fear you would be too idle, I can offer you a place as one of my ladies- I sent Karra Mormont home when she asked. But in truth, I don't care if you come as a part of our household or as a guest. A glimpse of your dear face would do more than I can ever say to help make the city a more bearable place.
Your faithful and true friend, Lady Kaelyn of House Stark