The battle

The battle raged on for hours, with Liam leading the orc warriors, slowly pushing the humans back. Amidst the chaos, Uldren stood tall, his mystical powers on full display. Every spell he cast summoned massive fireballs or conjured protective barriers that shielded the orcs from arrows and spells alike. His presence fired up the orc ranks, who fought harder, emboldened by the promise of victory.

"Rally to the front!" Liam's voice cut through the noise. He swung his sword, easily cleaving through a human soldier who dared to challenge him. Every strike was met with cheers from the orcs, who surged forward, energized by his command.

In a pivotal moment, Uldren unleashed a massive energy blast that struck a group of human archers perched on a ridge. The explosion sent debris flying, and the surviving archers scrambled for cover, their morale shattered.

"For the Ironblood Tribe!" Uldren bellowed, rallying the orcs. Liam, his heart racing, spotted a group of human soldiers trying to regroup. "We can't let them recover!" he yelled, urging the orcs to push harder.

Amidst the chaos, one human stood out—a knight, his blonde hair flowing as he fought with an almost mesmerizing grace. Clad in silver armor with a lion crest on his chest, he wielded his sword with precision. Each movement was calculated, and the soldiers around him seemed to draw strength from his calm resolve.

Liam wiped sweat and blood from his brow, spotting the silver knight cutting through orcs with ease. There was something about this man—an aura of leadership, perhaps. His presence was undeniable, a force on the battlefield.

Liam felt a rush of excitement, his war axe humming in response. Now an early purple-grade hero, Liam charged toward the knight, eyes locked. Time seemed to slow as they stared at each other, two warriors fighting for their people. The knight raised his sword, silently challenging Liam, who answered by activating his skill, Champion's Duel.

Suddenly, the nearby troops were forced back, leaving only Liam and the knight standing. With a fierce cry, Liam charged, and the knight met his advance head-on, their weapons ringing out as they clashed.

They fought with equal ferocity, the sound of their weapons echoing across the battlefield. Blow after blow, neither gave an inch. But exhaustion eventually set in, and both warriors paused, catching their breath.

"Why does a skilled warrior like you fight alongside these brutes?" the knight asked between pants.

Liam glanced around the battlefield before answering. "These 'brutes,' as you call them, are my people. They're not mindless beasts; they're warriors, just like you."

The knight raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Well said. But surely you see the irony, fighting alongside those your kind often calls monsters."

"It's not about monsters," Liam replied, his eyes burning with determination. "I fight for my people, just as you do for yours."

The knight chuckled. "Fair enough, warrior. I respect your choice. I am Cedric Silverblade, the Knight of Valor. Tell me your name, so I may remember the worthy opponent I've fought today."

Liam straightened, meeting Cedric's gaze with equal respect. "I'm Liam Howards, the Orc Warlord. And I'll remember you as well."

With that, they resumed their duel, their weapons clashing once more. They were perfectly matched, each showcasing incredible skill and strength. But slowly, Liam began to gain the upper hand, thanks to the buffs Uldren had placed on him.

After a series of intense exchanges, Liam finally deflected one of Cedric's swings, sending the knight's sword flying. Weary and breathing heavily, Cedric dropped to his knees. Liam pressed his axe to Cedric's neck, the moment heavy with the weight of the battle.

"Any last wishes, Sir Cedric?" Liam asked, his tone respectful.

Cedric, still filled with the pride of a warrior, met Liam's gaze. "This was a great battle, Warlord. I have no regrets. But as a warrior, I wish to die with my weapon in hand. Can you retrieve it for me?"

Liam nodded, understanding Cedric's desire for honor. He fetched the sword and placed it in Cedric's hands. With a deep breath, Cedric plunged the blade into the ground, ready to meet his end.

With one swift blow, Liam ended the duel, honoring the knight's courage. Cedric had fought bravely, and Liam knew this battle would stay with him—not just as a victory, but as a reminder that even enemies can possess great honor.