The sound of battle in the distance seemed far away to Lian and Elios, who now faced each other in a secluded clearing away from their teams' conflict. Their swords radiated opposing energies. While the darkness of Oblivion pulsed with an almost suffocating intensity, the light of his sword shone with a serene but powerful warmth. The tension between them was palpable, and neither seemed willing to make the first move.
"You're tired, Lian," Elios said, his voice calm but firm. He kept his sword raised, his eyes fixed on Lian's. "This doesn't have to end with you on the ground."
"Tired or not, I won't give up," Lian replied determinedly. He gripped Oblivion tightly, its shadows writhing around him like hungry serpents. "I've lost to you once. It won't happen again."
Elios sighed, tilting his head slightly. "You're forcing my hand, Lian. I won't hold back."
