"I don't see how the method would be any of your concern," is snapped back, abbreviated in reply to that knowing tilt of the general's chin. If Ralston had hackles, they might ripple to standing. Instead, he just shifts his grip on the borrowed cane's smoothly curved handle and considers moving to fetch the small table from where it presently blocks any entrance or exit to this quiet, still room.

"Your passage into that place clarifies the way forward. The door stays open behind you."