Everyone was listening to Rezkin with rapt attention. They were equally surprised by Rezkin’s thorough knowledge of the subject, and his own confidence in his words left no doubt in their minds that what he said was true.

“That is fascinating,” General Marcum said. “Where did you read such a well-researched appraisal? I would be interested to read it, myself.”

Rezkin shook his head. “I am afraid that argument has yet to be recorded. When I came to the conclusion, I admit, I had little time or interest in keeping a record. I actually never considered the possibility that others would care,” he added as an afterthought.

The general was staggered with disbelief. “You mean to tell me you came to that conclusion on your own?”

Rezkin cocked his head at the general’s unexpected reaction. “Well, it did take quite a bit of time to research. I think I spent a good three or four weeks poring over the texts and scrolls in the evenings. But, that was several years ago, so I suppose it could have been a little more or less.”

“Three or four weeks,” the general stated incredulously, “in the evenings.” Marcum leaned forward and narrowed his eyes at Rezkin. “How old are you? Twenty-four? Twenty-five?”

Rezkin furrowed his brow in confusion. What did his age have to do with the conversation? Why were people always asking about it? So as not to be rude he answered, “I am nineteen.”

The general sat back and tapped his fingers on the table in contemplation. Nineteen? It was much younger than he had guessed. A ridiculous thought crossed his mind, which he dismissed immediately. But maybe …

“Well, Rezkin,” Lady Adelina said cheerfully, “I, for one, was very impressed with your knowledge, and you express your thoughts very well.” Looking around the table she said, “I think we are all finished. Shall we retire to the study where we can continue our conversation in comfort?”

Everyone thanked the lady hostess for the delicious meal and followed her to the study. It was a warm room filled with hard woods and sturdy sofas and chairs with deep red fabric. The floor was covered with thick, woven rugs, and several portraits and tapestries hung from the walls. A few book cases and tables were arranged for actual studying in the study. It was obvious that those in House Marcum were well read. Books were uncommon and costly, and the modest estate seemed to be full of them.

General Marcum and Lady Adelina seated themselves in chairs adjacent to each other. It looked as if they were accustomed to sitting just so in the evenings. Tam claimed the remaining chair, which left Rezkin to sit either next to Frisha on the sofa or on a separate sofa farther away, which would have appeared awkward. She smiled pleasantly as he sat next to her.