Whatever magic or influence from spirits lies on this box, it can sense Merrill is one of the People, and it opens easily at her touch. There's no telling if it would refuse to budge for anyone else.

Inside is the impressively crafted hilt and pommel of a two handed sword. Its color is that of bronze, but this metal is even stronger, and the design on the hilt is fine work. The pommel has a round, purple jewel set into it, which gleams in the low light. It's probably a safe bet that this is what they've come for, but that it's in pieces.