The lieutenant glanced around surreptitiously then leaned in and lowered his voice. “I understand, sir. You are an average civilian as far as anyone else is concerned, but if you do find yourself in need of us, we are with you.” The lieutenant nodded once, and then, deciding he should not wait for a dismissal since the superior officer was trying to keep a low profile, he turned and strode away. Tam and Frisha burst into laughter as Rezkin shook his head in amazement. Apparently, it was easier to usurp the authority of a military command than he thought.

The rest of the morning was spent meandering around the deck and examining all of the devices and equipment that were unique to a ship. The soldiers no longer saluted every time he passed, but they continued to nod deferentially and maintained a respectful distance. By late morning, Rezkin was becoming restless. He decided to approach the captain about finding a place to practice his Skills.

“Aye, me lord,” said the captain. “Ye ain’t the first soldier who’s asked for that. Ye can use the quarterdeck, there, but mind yer feet. If ye fall off, we won’t be comin’ back fer ye.” Captain Talwater’s accent was not nearly as strong as that of the deckhand, Nate, but it was still noticeable.

Not caring to correct the captain on his assumptions, Rezkin simply thanked him and then went to find Lieutenant Jimson. As long as the lieutenant was being so amicable, he might as well use that to his advantage. He briefly explained to the lieutenant what it was he desired. At no time did he make it sound like a command, but the lieutenant interpreted it in his own way.

“Certainly, sir, but if I might ask, why do you not use your own blades?”

Rezkin did not wish to draw attention to his swords, especially by this lot, so he avoided the question.

“My friend, Tam, over there, wishes to join the army, which is why he is heading to Kaibain. He has no sword of his own and has not learned any techniques. I thought to instruct him on the way since we will have extra time on our hands. Naturally, we will need a couple of blades to practice with that are in the style and weight he should expect,” Rezkin explained.

“I see. That makes sense. We will pull a couple of blades from the stores below. Will you require any armor or other weapons, sir?” asked Lieutenant Jimson.

“No, I think learning the sword will be enough for now, especially on this moving vessel,” said Rezkin.

While the soldier was collecting the weapons, Rezkin retrieved Tam. He was sitting on a barrel talking to Frisha.

“Tam,” he said. “I require your presence on the quarterdeck. It is time to begin your training.”

“Training?” Tam asked in confusion.