The Duel (1)

In the sombre ambience of Dalma mansion, Fray and Richard faced each other, their expressions carrying the weight of a serious conversation. Untouched coffee cups sat on the table between them.

"So, that's the situation," Richard observed, his eyes thoughtful. "I can't entirely disagree with your decisions, but I still can't fathom why you didn't inform Aslin. She was your responsibility; you needed to ensure she didn't get led mislead."

"I attempted to before everything unfolded. After the events, there was no need to revisit it," Fray replied with sincerity.

Richard, perceptive to the underlying tension in Fray's stoic demeanour and calm words, sensed the gravity of the situation, as although he anticipated that something must have happened to make Fray leave Aslin and the Guardians, this was beyond his expectations.