“A thin blade, such as a stiletto, directly to the base of the skull in an upward thrust. If done properly, it causes instantaneous, silent death with little blood. The blood and wound can be hidden if the target has long hair or bulky garments. Most effective if left in a position and situation appropriate for feigning sleep,” explained Rezkin as another arrow came hurtling toward his face. His blade flashed up, snapping the arrow in two and turning it aside. The rest of his body remained still so as not to spill any of the water in the bowl balanced on his head.

They had been at this for over two hours already, and Rezkin was getting tired. Master Peider had required him to recite the list of deadly and harmful poisons and had moved on to kill methods. The strikers shot arrows at him randomly, sometimes several at a time and then with long breaks in between. Then there was the water, which could not be spilled.

At seventeen years of age, he knew better than to protest. To do so would mean breaking Rule 17—Never complain and Rule 43—Fight off fatigue, which did not mean he could force his body not to need rest. Rather, it simply meant that he should avoid becoming fatigued in the first place through rigorous training and planning ahead. If he became fatigued under dangerous circumstances, he was supposed to push through until he was safe. Of course, he also had to observe Rule 258—Obey your masters. Rezkin had managed not to break a single rule in three days, and he was not going to start now, especially for something so mundane.

“Good,” said Master Peider, “you may stop. You have a task to perform.”

Rezkin nearly sighed but just managed to stop himself before he broke Rule 14—Do not revel in success. That was an important one he had learned the hard way. If one became overly satisfied or relaxed after a success, it could lead to disaster. Master Peider quirked an eyebrow at him as though he had read Rezkin’s mind and knew he had almost broken the Rule.

Rezkin sheathed his sword then poured the water into the fountain before returning the bowl to the bench for later use. He followed Master Peider to the main courtyard where Striker Farson stood over a kneeling man. The man was filthy and wearing rags covered in blood. Master Jaiardun stood off to one side examining a lengthy scroll.

He glanced up and asked, “Method 32?”

“No,” replied Master Peider. “He performed thirty-two yesterday. He has not yet performed sixteen.”

“Very well,” grunted Master Jaiardun.

Master Peider turned to Rezkin and explained, “Rezkin, this man has been found guilty of multiple crimes including robbery, rape, and murder. He has been sentenced to death.”