Nimue’s eyes bulged just a little before she recovered her courtly manners,<br/><br/>“A Paladin?” she repeated with a teasing frown. “A Paladin. Hmmm, seems I have heard of those men. Let’s see if I have it straight. You are a knight of great renown and chivalry, which means that my virtue is safe with you.” Her eyes sparkled with devilment and good humor as she bobbed a curtsy once more. “ You are a noble soul who dedicates your sword and life to the battle against evil.  A righteous paladin seeking not just to spread divine justice but to embody the teachings of the virtuous Man/God you serve. In pursuit of  your lofty goals,  you adhere to ironclad laws of morality and discipline.” Here Nimue’s eyebrows shot up as she gave the muscular man’s body a promising look. “Too bad about the morality,” she grinned. “I hear your Man/God does not celebrate the joining of the Earth to the God of the Hunt.” Nimue was referring to the fertility festival held in the spring where not only the favored female and male who represented the Mother and the Horned God mated, but where all men and women took to the field to symbolize the plowing of fertile fields. I think this morality you choose is not what I would choose should I have to miss out on the blessings of the flesh.” She waved her hand as if waving the thought from her like pesky gnats. She continued her litany of explanation,<br/><br/>“ As reward for your righteousness, holy champion,you are blessed with boons to aid you in your quests: powers to banish evil, heal the innocent, and inspire the faithful. Although your convictions might lead you into conflict with the very souls you would save, paladins weather endless challenges of faith and dark temptations, you risk your life to do right and fighting to bring about a brighter future. And that, I believe, kind sir, is a tall order.”  Nimue winked saucily as she finished.<br/><br/>“I am Nimue, late of his Lord’s court and newly dedicated acolyte to the Lady of the Lake, Vivianne. I will serve the Mother here at Avalon, devoting my time and my life’s calling to being faithful to the old gods and the old ways. Am I the evil you come to banish, a dark temptation to overcome or am I an innocent you are pledged to protect?”<br/><br/>Cheeky, that is what the Lady often complained to their Lord of Nimue and now, when she faced what could be a man who could overpower her and slice her through with his great sword, she seemed unable to shut her mouth.<br/><br/>“I am pleased to make your acquaintance,….. sire,” she tacked on quickly, finally remembering her manners again. Dear Goddess, she thought, open the earth and swallow me.