[day 4] Quiet Alcoves (Alliser and Donnel)

Lord Alliser let out a slight gasp, "Really? What makes you think so? Did he appear guilty in his denials?" His mind whirling this new piece of the puzzle twirls around in his brain, trying to fit it in with the limited facts that he knows.

"Our time was much less fruitful. My man is still looking, but so far no one seems to have seen anything suspicious. Too many people leaving and going to make much sense. I will direct him to look at places where men with more money then sense would spend ill gotten coin. Hopefully something will turn up."

Alliser pauses, thinking, then continues, "I am sorry to have not gathered more information. However there was some concern raised about Lord Hightowers heir. Male relatives in line of succession can be a danger to such boys." Lord Alliser makes a sign of the seven to ward off the thought of kinslaying, "Perhaps a knight of renown such as yourself could speak with those who might be loyal to Ser Raymun Hightower. If I remember correctly he was once Lord Jon's heir, maybe he is upset at being passed over by Lord Hightowers son. Maybe you could even find out if Ser Raymun was on the hunt with Ser Garth Hightower. Perhaps the two deaths are connected?"

Ah, simplest answer is usually correct. A good guide to most things but in this case I think the hoofbeats are more likely cattle then horses. "It could be that the Maester is involved Ser Donnell, I will look into that tomorrow, as my man is still chasing down leads. The reason I was having you ask about Ser Raymun is because he might have motive to harm the boy if he is indeed behind the murder. Being family few would expect him to be the  culprit and find very little disturbing about him drawing closer to his cousin during this time."

Lord Alliser looks out of the  alcove, then tugs guess goatee thoughtfully, "so perhaps you should inquire about who has been set to guard the boy. If it is all Ser Raymun's people then perhaps you might suggest bringing your son Titus into the guard for a time. He aquitted himself well jousting in the honor if the Hightower's and was very respectful during the service. He might make a great addition to the honor guard if you have concerns about who is protecting him," Lord Alliser opens his hands, "providing Lord Jon does not have immediate need if him."

Allsier nods, his bearded chin bobbing "I know Lord Florent is looking and he has more resources then even I. I am a little leery about approaching more lords, as they are as likely to think me playing them as helping them." More likely, probably. "But is there a man of good character that you feel I should reach out to? Perhaps with your word as introduction it might open doors that were previously closed." 

"As far as being out of your depth," he grins at the knight, "Sometimes that is the best way to learn to swim." He pats the well muscled arm of donnel, "Besides, the fact that you care enough to try puts you leagues ahead of others. When learning to ride a horse did you flinch the first time getting back on after being bucked off?" Alliser chuckles, "I know I did. But Lord Florent told me that the best way to learn how to ride is get back up there. Either you learn to stay your seat or you don't ride. There is not really many more options eh?" Besides perhaps getting your head smashed on a rock, but best not bring up that extreme end of learning.

"indeed, let us both get ready." Lord Alliser stands and offers his hand to Ser Donnell. "May the warrior Grant you his strength."