Major Ursa said
Haklo doesn't need a mincing maiden whose too afraid to handle strange swords, who may just run off and never return after handling his sword but once! He needs a person who knows how to work a blade, who'll come back again with much to offer on the table. The person Lord Haklo needs is Skender.
She does not fear! But only worthy blades pass her hand, and Halko's sword is just the one that is worthy of her. Skender is used up and dried out, with only experience providing any value of his abilities. But Vera is still young, has potential to grow and adapt, but also knows what she is doing.
