Sanguine

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“Come in.”

Meg entered the lavish guest suite the university kept for important visitors such as Sir Vormir, who inhabited the accommodations tonight. Most girls would have spent hours tidying themselves, putting on a new and more formal dress, adjusting ribbons into their hair… Meg didn’t bother with any of that. She was a warrior, like Vormir; she came before him in a clean white blouse and black slacks, her hair loose down her back. Even if she were more romantically inclined, she knew she wouldn’t have a chance – just by looking at them she knew that there was only one woman for Sir Vormir.

The Lady Angela looked radiant, as always, as she opened the door, her gentle, peaceful smile comforting. She didn’t look worried – that meant Vormir wasn’t here on business. Good. Meg smiled as she entered the bedroom, bowing a little before the desk as Vormir turned, smiling.

“Megara! I am pleased to see you well. Have your classes proven enriching this term?”

Meg nodded. “Yes, sir,” she said, with a smile.

“I have heard talk that your knowledge of the sacred words of Pelor is less than exemplary. I hope that there has not been anything to distract you from such studies.” he reproached, his voice a bit stern.

Meg gave a scowl. “I simply don’t see why all praise goes to Pelor when you’re the one laying your life on the line day in and day out.”

Vormir gave an indulgent chuckle, rising to his feet and kissing the top of her head. “You’ll understand in time that not all paths in the light lead to the many blessings that Pelor has bestowed upon me.” he said, kindly. “But come now. Tell me of your studies.”

Meg waved her hand. “I’ve got something more important to discuss.” Vormir sat on the edge of the bed, gesturing for her to continue. Meg took a deep breath and spoke. “I’m hunting a nest tonight.”

Vormir’s blue eyes searched her brown ones. “Alone?”he asked quietly, his expression inscrutable.

“No, I have a team. Some friends of mine.”

Vormir’s brow crinkled a little less, and he gave a small smile. “I suppose, then, it’s time I gave you a gift I had made. I would have waited for your graduation, but you’ll need this. May it aid you in your calling and further your path.” He stood, going to the closet and removing a large, sheathed sword. He knelt on one knee, lifting it to her.

Meg was flabbergasted. He was treating her like a grown adult – a brother in arms. “I.. I’ve not taken vows..” she whispered, dazed, as she accepted the sword, buckling it to her belt. Gently, easily, she drew it, holding it in one hand. The weight was perfect – how did he know? She’d thought she’d lost the feel of a good sword with all the bow practice she’d had, but it came rushing back as she gave it a few swings. The balance was off a little from her practice swords, and the shine was a little different as well, more polished.

“Silver?” she gasped, looking up. A whole sword of silver?

Vormir nodded, rising to his feet. “Only the purest metal can slay those you have sworn to destroy. It’s balance is slightly askew from the silver, but I have confidence that you will be able to compensate for such with time.”

Meg carefully sheathed the enchanted blade, looking up at Vormir, eyes teary. She bowed low; when she rose, he put a hand on her shoulder, his voice soft but stern. “Please exercise caution in your undertaking this evening. One good hunter Is worth a dozen undead fiends vanquished.”