[center][h2][b]Vael 'Virisusai[/b][/h2][/center]

[hr]

Vael briefly turned his attention to the Mgalekgolo’s shield. Generally, they were durable enough to be all but impervious to the majority of small arms, but sentinel beams could damage even starships. Still, even in a damaged state, it would likely be serviceable against Human and Jiralhanae weapons. By Vael’s assessment, Tasuma was still equipped to fight. However, there was more for Vael to be curious about, especially the more he observed Tasuma’s armor. 

[color=orange]”You seem ready for battle, but there is more I would know about you. I was given a document with your history, but I would prefer to ask you myself. You are unusual for one of your kind. Your armor, equipment, the way you act towards them…you have worked with the Humans long before the idea of this team was conceived. You also fight without a bond brother, yet the spikes on your back show that you do, or did, have one. I am curious what events brought you here.”[/color] Vael questioned Tasuma, though the two of them did not remain alone for long before there was an interruption. The Spartan, Aviza, approached bearing an energy sword. 

Vael glanced down at the crimson blade. [color=orange]”I question what such a blade is doing in a Human armory, but…it does not matter. In the hands of a Sangheili, a sword is the weapon of nobility. Of honor, and the symbol of our skill. Swordsmanship is among our most respected practices.  You are correct that the sword has meaning to us, but you are not of our kind. In [i]your[/i] hands, there is no meaning. Some may disagree with me, but for you to wield a sword, there is no honor to be gained, nor lost. You are not Sangheili, and you are not under our command. It is not of our concern what trophies you take. Regardless, our rules and customs regarding the sword are primarily respected outside the military. On the field of battle, even a lowly Minor may pick up a sword if the situation demands it.”[/color]

Again, Vael put his attention to the blade. His answer might have seemed dismissive, but he said what he believed to be true. Her use of a sword was not something worthy of offense, though at the same time, her mere use of it would not gain respect. In any case, he had no qualms about informing her on a subject about which she clearly had little knowledge. [color=orange]“To wield that sword in particular is not a matter of honor nor respect, but skill. That blade burns hotter than the average sword, but that heat gives it a fine edge in more ways than one. It can cut through more armor, stronger armor, with speed and efficiency, but with that blade it is possible to cut [i]too[/i] quickly. When rending flesh, it burns hot enough to cauterize immediately. There is less bleeding, and if the wielder cuts too quick, less damage to surrounding tissue. If the cut does not find a vital area, your opponent may survive. A wielder of that blade is one who is precise, restrained, and skilled enough to always find his mark.”[/color]