The sun had finally completed its daily quest across the heavens, and Rezkin only hoped he had been as successful. The assassins upheld their strange version of honor, but they were still assassins. He truly hoped he would not have to return to the Hall and make his point again any time soon. He hated redundancy, especially when it was for the sake of wounded pride. Rezkin left Rom at the entrance to the city. The big man was sullen, and the warrior knew he was upset over what he deemed the loss of the small-men. The thief simply could not see the truth of the matter. Rezkin wanted the small-men to become successful big-men, grown men, and in order to do that, they needed to learn the Skills.

Rezkin had already washed his body and belongings in the river and changed into acceptable garb when he finally entered the Marcum estate. The young warrior followed the sounds of chatter and laughter to the dining room. The general and Lady Adelina sat in their usual places and were joined by Frisha and Tam, as expected. Captain Jimson sat to the lady’s right, and interestingly, Reaylin was on Jimson’s other side. The young blonde had been awkwardly stuffed into a gown that did not quite fit properly on her petite but curvy frame. Her face flamed scarlet when she spied Rezkin in the doorway. Jimson noticed the young woman’s reaction and followed her eyes to the source. His smile fell just a bit when he realized what had flustered his love interest, but his greeting was friendly and genuine.

“Rezkin! It is good to see you,” Jimson exclaimed.

Rezkin was met with similar greetings from Tam, Frisha, and Reaylin. Marcum was unsurprisingly silent as he narrowed his eyes at the young warrior.

“Oh, my dear,” said Lady Adelina. “I am afraid we just finished our dessert, but I am sure there is more in the kitchen if you like. Narus did inform us that you would not be here for dinner. I do hope you were able to finish all of your arrangements.”

Rezkin bowed slightly to the lady of the house and said, “My thanks, Lady Adelina, but I could not possibly eat another bite. And, yes, I believe everything is in order so that we may travel without concern on the morrow.”

“Did you find out anything about that friend of yours … er … I mean comrade,” Frisha asked with a sweet smile.

General Marcum and Captain Jimson visibly tensed at the reference to the elusive Striker Farson. Although Rezkin had not told them that Farson was a striker, they knew Rezkin was hunting the man with intents on interrogation and possibly execution.

Rezkin smiled cordially and said, “No, Frisha, I am afraid there has been no progress on that front. I am glad to see you are feeling better, though.” The young woman blushed slightly and graced him with a smile.