Lord Tyrell's Private Chambers

[Marie]

Izzy was all ears now. She smiled demurely and toyed with her hair. "Oh, spies! I am just an innocent woman and know nothing of such matters. I shall forget I ever heard such a thing by tomorrow."

[The Smith]

Bertrem eyed her and shook his head, "I somehow.... doubt it. Have you heard the latest rumors?"

[Marie]

"About the prince? I heard that, but not much else, truly."

[The Smith]

"How do the Hightowers stand?" Bertrem asked.

[Marie]

"In which respect, my lord?" She asked.

[The Smith]

"To the Prince being exiled?" Bertrem replied.

[Marie]

"Oh. I heard about it after I left the Hightower so I couldn't say, but I strongly believe that all my kin would be appalled by the prince's behaviour and would be happy to see him dead if he attempts to return to the Seven Kingdoms."

[The Smith]

"That is good you can see quite a distance from your home." Mace replied.

[Marie]

"Yes. Well, the Hightower is very tall sowe can see further than most," she said with a smile. "The whole situation is quite tragic, I think. My heart goes out to the princess."

[The Smith]

"She is strong. She will stand tall. She has more rose in her then dragon." Bertrem smiled at her, "I have raised her almost on my own."

[Marie]

"A noble accomplishment, especially for a man," Izzy replied. "Perhaps when my son is old enough he might squire for you, my lord? I can think of nobody better to teach him. But I am very curious to meet the princess."

[The Smith]

Bertrem chuckled, "If you want your son to Squire to a clerk I will take him, but if you want a knight, I know Mace would gladly serve as his mentor."

[Marie]

"Oh." She looked at Mace, looking him over from head to foot. "Yes! That would be ideal. But not for a few years anyway. I have always admired men who can wield sword and lance."

[The Smith]

Mace returned her look and said, "Of course. My door is always open to you goodsister. You need only knock. And we can talk of anything."

[Marie]

She smiled very slowly.

"I shall remember that, Mace. Your kindness will warm me in the days ahead. I very much hope that we shall remain good friends. The bonds between us are too important to lose."