Rezkin turned his attention back to the general. “And, yes, General Marcum, Frisha has already made it clear that she intends to select a husband from among your nobles when she is ready. I believe that her dowry has made her valuable enough to desire but not noble enough to respect. Surely her husband will eventually come to see her as the strong and passionate woman that she is,” Rezkin said.

General Marcum was taken aback by the young man’s candidness. While he did not like what Rezkin had to say about the nobles and how they would treat Frisha, he grudgingly admitted to himself that it was true. She would never be seen as an equal. The best she could probably hope for was a distant, loveless marriage where she lived in luxury but was otherwise ignored. He had hopes, though, that one of the young men he had selected would develop a genuine interest in his niece.

Tamarin broke through the general’s thoughts. “I know it’s not really my business, but Frisha is like a sister to me. I don’t see what is so wrong with Rezkin being with Frisha even if he was after your estate, which for the record, I don’t believe is the case. These nobles will only want her for your estate, also—sorry Frisha—at least Rezkin has already proven himself capable and willing to put his own life on the line for her protection. And, Rezkin has proven himself honorable over and again. He lives by this strict code, like a knight. I would much rather she be with Rezkin than some snotty noble who won’t care for her. Uh, sorry Lady Adelina, I shouldn’t have said that last part.”

The general opened his mouth to retort and then realized he did not have one. Rezkin was sitting back wondering how they had come to a debate whether he should enter into a marriage contract with Frisha. Frisha sat next to Rezkin hiding her face in her hands. She was completely mortified that everyone was having this conversation about her, all around her, and she was apparently the only one who had no say. Rezkin noticed Frisha hiding herself and instinctively reached out to stroke her hair. It always helped to calm Pride when the stallion was upset.

General Marcum was watching Rezkin. The young man’s concern for his niece did seem genuine enough. He still had many concerns about the young man’s vague background, though. Nothing seemed to be adding up, and he had a growing suspicion he knew why.

Rezkin turned his attention back to the lord and lady of the house and stated, “We have had many long days of travel, including this day, and recounting the trials of our journey is upsetting for both Frisha and Tam. If it would not offend you both, I think it is time for us to retire.”