Monty came back around the corner with a platter of fish and chips in one hand and a sword in the other. He set the rapier on the counter along with the platter in front of Scott. Then he turned around and filled up a cup of water, which he placed in front of Scott as well.

“Thanks Monty.” Scott said.

“Why are you thanking me? I’m the one who owes Silva and because of that I owe you.”

“You don’t owe either of us anything.”

“That’s where you’re wrong. Silva saved my life as well as my childrens lives. I know you probably will never have children so you will not understand but that meant more to me than you will ever know. I could owe Silva for the rest of my life and it still wouldn’t compare.”

“Well I thank you for remembering her.”

“You’re welcome. Now tell me, are you okay? Every year you come in and do the exact same thing. You have a platter with water and stare at her sword for an hour while fiddling with your ring. Every time I have to act like you didn’t do this the year before. I know I have no right to say this but I think it’s time you moved on. Silva would want you to.”

“I can’t Monty. It’s not just about her. I have to live with the fact that I lost myself that day along with the one person who was willing to extend a hand to me. She gave me a chance to live my life and I became a monster for the sake of revenge.”

“I see now… I’m sorry. You went through a lot and you regret it, but you can’t blame yourself.”

“No, I can only blame myself. Would you mind letting me be for a while?”

“Of course, just let me know if you want to talk.” Monty said before walking away to wipe out some cups.

Scott looked down at his food and began to eat. The fish was moist and flakey which contrasted the chips that dried out his mouth. He slowly ate until he couldn’t eat any more. Then he looked at the rapier which was silver from the bottom of the hilt to the tip of the blade and had a thin metal sheath, which almost shone next to him.

He picked it up and read the inscription on the sheath that said: “To protect the weak and moral.” Then on the hilt there was another inscription which read: “To hold on to what is right.” And finally sliding it out of the sheath, the blade read: “To slay those who have lost their way.” He slid the blade back into its sheath and set it back on the counter.

“I have lost my way Silva. Despite everything I cannot go back to how I was before.” He said to himself. “Thank you for the meal Monty. Would you mind putting the blade away for me?”

“You’re welcome Scott and I’ll have it stored until next time.” Monty replied as he watched him stand up and walk out the door.

* * *

Silva leaned back in her chair as she let out a big sigh. She had just finished eating and felt like she was about to burst. Scott on the other hand was still eating. Although they had the same size platter and he was scarfing down food like he would never be fed again.

“So, Scott. Have you considered my proposal?”

“I have.”

“And?”

“And I think I will become your apprentice.”

“Good, then we should be off.”

“Off to where?”

“Your new home.” She said as she stood up. Scott stuffed the last of his chips into his mouth and got up as well. The two walked out of the pub and down the street. A few blocks away they stood in front of a two story building that looked more run down than the cobblestone street.

“You didn’t tell me you lived in a brothel?” Scott said in a concerned tone only to get a swift slap in the back of the head.

“This is not a brothel. The people I work for are just lacking in the funds to repair this place so I have to make do. Now mind your manners.” she Exclaimed, looking a little disappointed in the shape of her home.

“I’m sorry.” he said, rubbing the back of his head.