She was found in the old nearly forgotten temple. She had hidden behind the old altar in hopes of escaping. They backed her into a corner. She had found an old sword. It was heavy and awkward for her, but she was determined to keep them away or make them kill her. Death by the sword was preferable to being used until she died. She was exhausted, hurt, and weakening.

A huge man appeared behind her attackers. Her heart sank. He stood seven feet tall or more. Short, Blood-red hair just brushed massive shoulders. His muscles rippled as he moved with cat-like grace. One by one, he killed the men threatening her until he alone faced her. She did not relax, although the old sword was now almost too heavy for her. She looked up into golden eyes that gleamed with amusement. That made her angry. She tightened her grip on the blade, her red eyes cold. The huge man before her was impossibly handsome.

“Why did you kill them?” she asked coldly. “Weren’t they your friends?”

The amusement flared brighter. He shook his head slowly his red hair swaying. “You came in here for sanctuary,” he said. His deep, rich voice resonated in her. “They profaned by attacking you.” He gestured at the blade she still held. “You did well with my blade. Even though it is not suited to you.”

Her mouth was suddenly dry. She was in the temple of her War God. He smiled slightly as he saw the knowledge light her eyes. She sighed and lowered the blade. Then she wiped off the blood and offered it back to him, hilt first. As he took it, the blade changed, becoming bright and clean. A mortal man had stolen his blade, diminishing his power. This woman had, unknowing, restored him. The exhaustion and pain finally caught up with her. She collapsed without a sound. He sheathed his sword and gently lifted her in his arms. A black mist swirled in the temple. When it cleared, only the bodies remained.

He laid her on soft black and red cushions and removed her tattered clothes he observed her for a moment taking in her features. She had long red hair, a shade darker than his. her lips were painted black. she was in her own way very beautiful. Shaking his head he returned to his current actions. A basin of warm water with healing herbs in it appeared at his elbow. He carefully cleaned the cuts and scrapes.