Liam lunged, the dagger flashing in the dim light. Kai reacted instantly, shoving Isla behind him and intercepting the attack. He felt a surge of adrenaline, a primal instinct to protect her.
"Liam, what are you doing?" Isla cried, her voice filled with disbelief.
Liam's smile was cold, his eyes devoid of warmth. "Doing what I have to," he replied, his voice flat. "Thane promised me… rewards. Power."
Isla's heart sank. Liam, driven by greed, had betrayed them. The thought was sickening.
Kai and Liam grappled, their movements a blur of motion. Kai was strong, but Liam was surprisingly agile, his movements fueled by a desperate ambition. Kai knew he had to end this quickly, before Liam could hurt Isla.
"You don't understand," Kai said, his voice strained. "Thane will betray you too. He uses everyone."
Liam scoffed. "I'm not like the others. I'm smarter. I'll get what I deserve."
Isla watched, her mind racing. She had to do something, anything, to help Kai. She couldn't just stand there and watch him fight.
She grabbed a nearby candlestick, her hand shaking. It was a clumsy weapon, but it was all she had.
As Liam lunged again, Isla swung the candlestick, striking him on the side of the head. He stumbled, momentarily stunned, giving Kai an opening.
Kai seized the opportunity, disarming Liam with a swift move. The dagger clattered to the floor. He grabbed Liam's arm, twisting it behind his back.
"It's over, Liam," Kai said, his voice hard.
Liam struggled, but Kai held him firm. He looked at Isla, his eyes filled with relief and gratitude.
Suddenly, Anya gasped. She was staring at Liam, her face pale with shock. "He's not alone," she whispered.