(((Sorry, Samson X. I overlooked your post somehow.)))
Daethalion nodded. "I concur," he said, showing more emotion than he had before. "If there is no reason, it is pointless to kill. That is what has plagued my people for ages. If only they could understand--"
He checked himself. True, he was passionate against pointless killing, but he could not reveal who he was. "But," he said, returning to his level tone, "that is none of your concern and it must bore you to hear of my problems. Nonetheless, I have no qualm against killing if there is due purpose. After tonights display, I suppose you feel the same way. All the same, there is no harm in a playful bout between friends. Do you plan to join us, Athos?"
Athos, who had been busy ordering, declined the invitation.
"Aw," Daethalion said, "More the pity. Well, perhaps we shall meet in the tournament. Meantime," he said to Merideth, "You can show me what you can do, and I would be happy to instruct you as I can."
"I'd like that," she said with a smile.
At that moment, the bodies of the monks were being carted away. The party had a full view of the dead as they pasted. "Ugh," Merideth said in disgust, "I think I need some air." She stood, and Daethalion stood with her.
"I will join you. It may not be safe. Is there a balcony here?"
"Yes, good idea. This way." She lead the way to the balcony. Once they were resting against the railing with the crisp sea air blowing at their faces, Merideth confessed. "I'm not much for blood, Maxim. I, I feel a little queasy. I've never seen a dead body before, never mind having men killed in front of me."
"I am sorry," Daethalion apologized, "but as I said, when there is a need, I have no hesitation to kill. That man still posed a threat, and I did not want him to hurt you. I wish--"
"No, no," she interrupted, "You did the right thing, I know. It's just...he was a person too. Now, he is dead. It's unsettling..." Merideth began to cry, but Daethalion took her in his arms.
"My lady," he said, "You are of tremendous courage, and of great heart. But this man, these men were evil and bent to end lives. Take no pity that the lives ended were their own."
"Thank you," she said with a sniffle, "but I still don't have much of an appetite."
"Here," he said, "Waiter! Waiter!" A waiter came to him. "Fetch the lady a bit of tonic water. She has a bit of an upset stomach; with the events of tonight."
"I understand," the waiter said with a nod. "One moment."
"I," Merideth said as the waiter left, "I think I'd just rather leave. I'm sorry."
"I understand, but do not be sorry. You could not control the events of the evening. I will see you home."
"Thank you, Maxim. You really are a sweet man."
