He nods; it makes sense that a preservation spell came from spoiled food. And it's a very useful spell, too.

"Between the two spells, the preservation and the road-making, a mage could be a useful asset for any number of traders." Fruit, meat, vegetables, traders could take them all even further. The only thing to worry about is mages being treated as objects or slaves, rented or sold for that. It's something to be wary about... but not yet. Right now they've the chance at this on their own terms.

"As far as the swimming goes..." Anders exhales and looks around as if a good place would present itself. It doesn't. "We can review in the hot springs, but it's not going to be a good place to truly practice and build muscle. How are you with the cold? My swim across Lake Calenhad was not... in the best weather, and it didn't kill me..."