The fire gently crackled, it's warmth filling the room. Neither of the participants really needed the heat, being snuggled under rather too many blankets, but a lit fireplace gives any room a certain je ne sais quoi.
"How long has it been since you escaped?."
Time didn't work as it ought to in the prison, but riders had a very accurate internal clock. By the Onnamusha's numbers, she'd been with the Song for a few months.
"I don't suppose it matters. I'm glad you stayed."
The Onnamusha began to sign. It was a little unwieldy to do one-handed, but she didn't want to stop holding the Song's hand with her other.
"I'm glad I stayed too."
They both smiled, and burrowed deeper into the blankets.
It was nice here.