Rezkin adjusted his swords when he sat and caught the general eyeing them speculatively. The man could not tell from the outward appearance that they were Sheyalins, but carrying two swords was unusual enough.

Two blades could be awkward in close battle and required more room to maneuver. In addition, keeping track of them was a skill that took an immense amount of time to develop. One had to be an expert in wielding a sword with each hand before blending them together in an altogether new technique. Someone with less than expert skill could do more harm to himself than an opponent. It was generally not a recommended technique because it was so difficult to master, and it was often ridiculed as being foolhardy and showy for amateurs and idiots who wanted to appear more dangerous.

Thus far, the general thought, this Rezkin does not seem to be an idiot.

General Marcum allowed his eyes to travel over the three young people before him as he spoke. “My wife tells me you had some trouble on your journey here. Please tell me all about it. Of course, I am concerned as an uncle, but I am also asking as the general.”

Tam and Frisha both looked to Rez. Through his role as protector and guide, he had inadvertently become the leader. Rezkin nodded toward Frisha and said, “You go ahead and tell your aunt and uncle. Tam and I will add any additional details to satisfy the general.”

Marcum grunted his approval. This was a smart young man.

“I don’t really know where to start. Well, Tam and I left Cheswick …” Frisha began and continued the story through to the end. She left out little from her perspective, but Rezkin knew much was still missing, and the general suspected it as well.

General Marcum followed Frisha’s story becoming angrier by the minute. “We have been receiving reports of increased bandit activity along the rivers and roads, but nothing indicated it was as frequent or widespread as this. I will definitely be looking into this Lieutenant Jimson’s reports. We should also be receiving reports in a few days from the patrol on the trade route. They should have found the bodies you left unless someone claimed them. I doubt the reports will tell anything you do not already know, though.” He finished with his gaze on Rezkin.

The general returned his attention to his niece and said, “Frisha, had I known circumstances were so severe, I would have insisted on an armed escort to bring you here. I know you tried your best, Tamarin, but from what I just heard, there was little you could have done.” He turned to Rezkin once again. “It is truly most fortunate that you were there, Rezkin. Tell me, when you met Frisha, did you know she was my niece? Were you seeking my favor by protecting her?”

“Uncle Marcum!” Frisha gasped.