The Search for Redemption

Bjorke saw her old friend across the smoky courtyard in the Dwarven District. “Shu Ion Gar, Edrick.” She said the words of greeting he had taught her, to show her respect for the man.

“Shu Ion Gar, friend Bjorke.” He shifted uneasily, and looked as if he did not know what to say. Bjorke had never seen him like this. “Bjorke… I… “

Holding up her hand to stop him, Bjorke wanted to speak first. She realized she had seen him in a vulnerable state, and she wanted to balance the scales again. “I didn’t get a chance to thank you, Edrick.” She swallowed hard, as it was still difficult to talk about. “After I found his body, it was your words, your Laws, that kept me alive. You saved me that day, up on the Cliffside. I owe you my life, Edrick of Malcore.”

She paused a moment, then said softly, “Anything I did for you that day, I did as a small way to repay that debt, my friend.”

Edrick squared his massive shoulders, and looked her in the eye. He nodded, then smiled, just enough to show his pointed teeth. He clapped her on the shoulder, nearly knocking her over, and took his leave.

Bjorke watched him disappear into the smoke and night. “Death and Glory, my friend,” she said quietly, and hoped her friend would find some peace soon.