Rezkin nodded unconcernedly. In his mind he was mulling over methods of hiding his identity. Others may deviate from the Rules, but he had no intention of doing so. Besides, if he really was an enemy of the kingdom, it would not do him any good for people to learn his face. From his recent observations of outsiders, he had come to recognize that his looks were a bit unusual but not completely out of the norm. Many people had black hair, although most had brown or blonde. Many people also had blue eyes, although the eyes were usually a bit darker with more grey or green. Few people seemed to sport both characteristics, though. Combined with his height and above average physique, he knew he was a memorable figure. In fact, with the combination of his looks, apparently unusual name, lack of title, and ownership of two Sheyalin blades and a battle charger, there was pretty much nothing forgettable about him.

A short time later, Rezkin and the lieutenant separated themselves from the group and found a clear, flat space in which to practice their dueling. Rezkin set his swords to the side to keep them from getting in the way and hefted the sword previously loaned to Tam.

“You do not use your own blade?” asked Lieutenant Jimson.

Rezkin shrugged as if the question was unimportant. “This is the same standard issue as your own?” he asked as if that would explain it.

“Ye-e-e-e-e-s,” the lieutenant said as he nodded. He came to his own conclusion that the young man just wanted to place them on equal ground to start.

Rezkin adjusted his Skill level to match that of the lieutenant. The man would gain nothing from being defeated too quickly. At the end of the exercise, Lieutenant Jimson was sweating, and his breathing was heavy. Rezkin had barely loosened his muscles.

“You are quite good,” Lieutenant Jimson observed. I think you are even better than I am. You should do well at the tournament.”

Rezkin thanked him casually but politely and pointed out a few areas in which the man could improve. When they arrived in camp, they briefly continued their discussion of the dueling practice before their attention was captured by the roasted meat.

After everyone had eaten and finished their nightly ablutions, the three companions settled into their bedrolls. Frisha found herself sandwiched between Tam and Rezkin. She was at least an arm’s length away from the handsome man, but she imagined she could feel his body heat soaking into her. Considering the circumstances, she felt surprisingly safe sleeping out in the open among so many men, even knowing that bandits might be lurking in the shadows.