Lord Hightower's Solar

[The Flint]

"I should mention also, that in short time I will head to King's Landing to serve as the King's Master of Whisperers."

[melon]

"Really that is interesting. Will you be taking the boy with you?"

[The Flint]

"No. King's Landing is an ugly and dangerous city. Maester Alesander will keep close watch of the boy here, and of course I will know all that goes on here." Francis smiled, "They wouldn't have chose me if I didn't, I presume."

[melon]

"Yes that would be correct. After this Tourney Randal is holding I am going North to check in on my son."

[The Flint]

"Talk to me of the boy's claim at Karstark. You wife is a Karstark, I know, and he is the last remaining of their blood?"

[melon]

"Yes he is. Well I just entered into my service a Male Karstark but he is far from the main branch. Edmure is Lord of Karhold and he has mine and the Boltons backing. Lyas has said that wishes to see a Kastark at Karhold and that Edmure is that. We just have different opinion on where he should be raised."

[The Flint]

"No doubt seeking to hold him hostage for your good behavior, as well as to prevent us from using the boy in a manner which would disrupt his solidification of the North. Is that the sense of it?"

[melon]

"Pretty much Francis. I will go North and see if I can have a few kind words with Good Lord Lyas." As Tallahar says this he cracks his knuckles.

[The Flint]

"It is impossible to have a kind word with the Flayed Man. I wish you luck." Francis said, patting Tallahar's shoulder. "But whatever happens, however offensive he is, do not let him push you in conflict. Regardless what happens, we can not risk it. If he denies your request we will find another way."

[melon]

"If he insults me I will challenge him to a fair Duel of honor. There is no way he can say that is not OK."

[The Flint]

"He isn't stupid enough to duel you Tallahar. He's crafty enough to be as polite as can be, and than ambush you on the road home, and blame your death on bandits."

[melon]

"He would need a large number of Bandits with the 700 men going North."

[The Flint]

"There are a thousand men at Upland's coz, you're using alot of your strength in this show of force. Just be cautious.'

[melon]

"Men of Uplands gosh no. I'm traveling with the Golden Roses and my Guard they should show those Boltons whose boss." Tallahar is smiling now.

[The Flint]

Francis had met, and even trained with the Golden Roses. he knew their quality, despite his dislike for mercenaries, Francis nodded.

"Fair enough. Those are your men, and you could do with them what you like. As I said, just keep the King's peace and we shall be alright." Francis said smiling.

"Is there any other issue before us Lord Tallahar, or have we settled them all?"