Pot eyed the swords and dagger at Rezkin’s waist and then took in the bow and arrows and crossbow that were strapped to his pack. The rest of the weapons were either hidden on Rezkin’s person or inside the pack. Finally, Pot nodded in resignation and led the way toward the building. The young warrior was satisfied that at least this small-man recognized his own limitations. He was a smart man.

They entered the inn through the rear door and headed toward the front common room. Rezkin’s eyes roved over every inch of the establishment, resting on each individual momentarily to assess the threat level. Pot practically skipped up to the bar where a heavyset man wearing an apron stood wiping down mugs.

“Master Nol, we have a customer. We took care of his horse already. It’s amazing, Master Nol. I’ve never seen such a horse. His name is Pride. The horse, I mean. The man’s name is Rezkin, and he wants a room.” Pot said all of this in a single breath.

“Pot! Stop talking, boy, and let me greet the fellow,” the barman replied. “Greetings,” he paused as his eyes finally landed on the imposing young warrior, “ah … sir. I am Nol, the owner of this fine inn. I understand you would like a room?”

Rezkin reminded himself to smile as he replied, “Yes, Master Nol. I will be staying for two nights, perhaps three. I would prefer a room on the east side of the building with a window, if one is available.”

Master Nol’s brow furrowed. “I have such a room available. You are young, but I don’t think you wear those swords for show, do you? It’s not the first time I’ve had such a request—always from the warrior types, soldiers and such, you know? It’ll be eight silver per night for the room. That includes dinner and breakfast. It’s another four silver for the horse. A bath will be two silver. We can have your clothes laundered for an added cost, depending on what you have.”

“Perhaps we can call it an even twenty-five for everything, including the laundry, for two nights, and I will pay you up front,” Rezkin suggested. His masters had taught him to always haggle the price, even when it was already a good deal, or people would become suspicious.

Master Nol nodded and said, “That’ll do. I’ll show you to your room, if you’ll follow me.” Good, it did not seem like this man wanted to quibble over a few silvers, which was just as well because Rezkin did not want to either.