Cacilie would have to wait a week before her Daddy was available to escort her to the town of Ponalas. She wished he had more time in his schedule, but between the rest of her siblings and his duties it was the best that he could do for her. 

Those seven days she had available to herself gave the ten year old time to plan. She took the time to address a few of the more talkative servants, especially those who had grown up in Ponalas. She wanted recommendations on the best areas to visit and places one could relax and eat. Whilst this trip was for her own belated birthday present, Cacilie felt it would be prudent to allow her father a day of rest as well. 

She had her best dress set aside and she managed to set aside the ribbon that had been used to wrap her last Winter Solstice gift as a hair ornament. It easily complimented the color of her Daddy’s eyes, something she hoped that he would appreciate. She knew how much he adored it when Kathrin would coordinate her outfits to match his own. She had heard him call it an honor to be matched with his daughter in such a way. Cacilie didn’t have as extensive a wardrobe as Kathrin since it wouldn’t do for her to stand out too much given that she was betrothed from a young age, according to her Daddy. Therefore, she had to try hard to find something that would compliment his appearance whilst being subdued. 

Cacilie was on pins and needles as the day approached. She was even more assured at her Daddy when he called everyone for a family dinner. Such an event in the Dae House only occurred during holidays or a family member’s birthday. 

“Daddy, how have you been doing?” She asked as the servants laid out the meal. 

“I’ve been doing well, Cacilie. Luckily, I was able to come to terms with the traders that came to see me a couple weeks ago,” He paused and smiled at her. “That gives me time to take you to the market in town like I promised.” 

Cacile was about to inform him of her thoughts before she was interrupted by Kathrin. She set down her fork slightly more loudly than normal and glared at her. 

“Daddy, why can’t I come as well?” She asked, tone expectant and ending in a high whine. 

“Now, Kathrin,” Daddy corrected. “This is time I set aside for Cacilie and me. It shouldn’t take more than half the day. You can spare that much time from our usual plans for me to fulfill my promises.” 

Cacilie glanced over at her sister and gave her an apologetic look. Kathrin was only six years of age and she knew that age was when she wanted to spend more time with Daddy as well. 

Kathrin noticed her expression and turned away from her, not meeting her gaze. It would appear that she would need to send an apology to her sister. It would be easy enough to mend by reminding Daddy to purchase a souvenir for her while they would be out. 

The meal carried on in silence afterwards as Kathrin sulked which prevented Cacilie from mentioning her plans. She would send a proposed itinerary to Daddy with her maid later that evening if he wasn’t too preoccupied with her business.