When Rezkin finished skulking about, he felt much more at ease. The spy mission did more than just expend some of his pent up energy. It had also served to allay some of his concerns about staying in the home of the general of the army for the kingdom against which he might just be a traitor. Now that he had a thorough knowledge of the property, he could formulate a number of escape routes and plan for the best positions of attack and defense.

After he finished his morning routine, he used the hand pump near the kitchen to rinse his body clean of sweat. The sun’s first rays were just beginning to breach the horizon, and most of the household was asleep or just beginning to stir. He entered the home through the rear of the kitchens and procured a plate of bacon, eggs, and biscuits from the young maid who assisted the cook. Rezkin thanked her. She smiled sweetly and batted her lashes at him, and then he sat down at a small table to one side. Just as he was finishing his meal, the general entered in search of his own breakfast. Rezkin stood and performed a slight bow in greeting as the maid cleared away his dishes.

“Up early, I see. It looks as if you have already performed your physical training exercises, as well,” the general commented. It was his attempt at civility, but not being much of a conversationalist, he stuck to soldier speak. The self-proclaimed warrior did not seem to mind.

Rezkin nodded once in the affirmative and said, “I have.”

General Marcum grunted. “If only my soldiers were so motivated. I would have an unbeatable army.”

Rezkin said nothing in response. He did not want to point out how lacking he found the soldiers. Most of the officers he had seen could hold their own, at least against each other, but the enlisted were little better than farmers whose pitchforks had been swapped for swords. The poor security he had encountered in Lorelis was quite discouraging, as well.

“So, what are your plans for today, Rezkin?” the general asked casually. His wife had insisted on a long discussion with him about his poor treatment of their guest the night before. The general was still suspicious and uncomfortable having the mysterious, and apparently dangerous, young man in his home and near his family. Adelina had been horrified when Rezkin rightfully questioned his welcome after she accepted him as a guest. Marcum received the brunt of her distress and was attempting to behave more amiably this morning, even though his opinions had not changed.

The young man replied, “Frisha and Tam will be rising soon, at which time we will conduct their daily weapons training. They expressed a desire to visit some of the shops, so I intend to accompany them afterward. I also need to restock a few of my medical supplies, having used quite a few during the journey.”