The task force camped in a narrow canyon as night fell, the Wastes cloaked in an oppressive darkness broken only by the faint glow of their fire. The vision of the Void's prophecy hung heavy over Kael and Liora, their uneasy alliance strained by the day's tension. Frustrated by their growing reliance on each other, Kael's patience snapped. "Enough of this," he growled, stepping into the open space near the fire. "Let's settle this, Lunari. A duel. No tricks, just us."
Liora's eyes narrowed, her pride flaring. "Fine, Solaris. Let's see if you can back up that arrogance." She drew her daggers, her stance fluid and ready. The team gathered, their murmurs a mix of curiosity and unease, as Kael unsheathed his broadsword, the blade catching the firelight.
The duel began with a clash that echoed through the canyon. Kael's strength drove powerful swings, forcing Liora to dance back, her daggers deflecting each strike with precision. Sparks flew as metal met metal, their movements a blur of fury and skill. Liora ducked under a sweeping arc, her dagger grazing Kael's side, drawing a hiss of pain. He retaliated, his sword arcing toward her, but she twisted away, her agility keeping her just out of reach.
The fight intensified, their breaths ragged, the air thick with their mutual loathing. Kael lunged, aiming to pin her, but Liora sidestepped, disarming him with a deft twist. His sword clattered to the ground, and for a moment, she had the upper hand, her dagger at his throat. The team held their breath, expecting the killing blow.
Instead, Liora hesitated. She lowered her weapon, offering a hand to help him up. Kael stared, stunned, then grasped her hand, rising with a scowl. The touch lingered, a silent acknowledgment of restraint that left them both unsettled. "You fight like you mean it," he muttered, retrieving his sword.
"And you hold back like a fool," she replied, sheathing her daggers, her voice sharp but her eyes betraying a flicker of respect.
The team dispersed, the duel's end a quiet shock. Kael and Liora stood apart, the darkness around them mirroring the turmoil within. The restraint they'd shown planted a seed of doubt in their hatred, a crack that neither was ready to explore as they returned to their watch.