The general grunted as his eyes sought the window, where his attention lingered. Rezkin glanced out the window and saw nothing of interest. Realizing the general was lost in thought, Rezkin cleared his throat in an effort to regain the man’s attention. General Marcum looked back at the young warrior and said, “I have not changed my mind about your proposal, but I have decided to allow Frisha to travel with you to the tournament. There will be some conditions, of course. Propriety must be observed.”

“Why?” Rezkin asked. “Why does it matter to you if she attends the tournament?”

“Because she wishes to go,” the general remarked. “And, it would give her a chance to meet the other nobles.”

The astute warrior could tell the general had another reason but was disinclined to discuss it.

Rezkin grunted in disbelief, “So, you would have me escort her so that she may look for other suitors?”

General Marcum frowned while he ran the conversation through his head again. Realizing that was indeed what it had sounded like, he said, “No, that is not what I meant. I was not referring to the young men. I just meant the other nobles in general. Many of her peers, the young ones especially, will be attending the tournament, and it would be a good social opportunity for her. Plus, as she pointed out, she would get to experience the excitement of the tournament before she settles down.”

Rezkin felt that sudden pang in his chest, and he realized he did not like the idea of Frisha settling down. This time Rezkin glanced away.

“Does that bother you?” the general asked.

“Is that your intent, General? Do you wish to antagonize me?” Rezkin asked.

General Marcum released a heavy sigh. “No, that was not my intent. I just find myself wondering if you are capable of feeling like the rest of us.”

Rezkin frowned. “Perhaps I am, perhaps not. Are you capable of feeling in the same manner Frisha does? I heard her crying most of last night, and she has yet to show herself today. If you are incapable of feeling the way she does, does that make you less of a person?”