Chapter Text
It was a time before Installation 04 and a time before the Silent Shadow confrontation with a pair of Headhunters. Two special groups within the Covenant military - the Silent Shadow and the SpecOps - had decided to put on a friendly contest. For this, two of the best swordsman were offered up as representatives for a duel - Jega 'Rdonmai for the Silent Shadow and Bero 'Kusovai for the SpecOps.
Bero boasted skill that made him rival his superior, Rtas 'Vadum, but he knew to not get ahead of himself. The Silent Shadow were famous - potentially infamous - across the Covenant. They only picked the best of the best, and took on the deadliest missions. Even if their representative chosen was the worst performing swordsman in their ranks, Bero would still be facing a monumental challenge.
And indeed, his opponent was relentless. He considered it a blessing that this duel was strictly to end with no death - otherwise, not only would he have lost his life, but he might not have lasted as long as he did. Eventually, he was left landing hard on the ground, breaths rushing in and out as his hearts nearly beat right out of his chest. The odds had been stacked against him - anyone could've foreseen that - but he still felt like he wouldn't be able to look his peers in the eye for the next few days.
When he lifted his head, his eyes locked with his opponent, who had been staring down at him this entire time. Obscured by the Silent Shadow helmet, Bero had no idea if the thoughts going through his head were good or bad. Perhaps he was so disappointed with Bero that he was contemplating executing him right then and there?
Instead, Jega merely nodded his head. "You spar well. For a SpecOps."
With his next heartbeat, Bero lifted himself up, all while maintaining eye contact. "And you were to my expectations, Silent Shadow."
"I almost suspect an invitation in your future..."
"And I would be greatly honored, to catch the Silent Shadow's attention..." He clacked his mandibles, plotting the most careful approach to his words. "But my satisfaction in where I am now will fuel my patience."
Not a complete rejection, with the subtext being subtle enough. Jega appeared to accept it without insult.
"Based on this little contest..." he huffed. "Feel free to be patient. 'Kusovai."
Bero's bow of the head was quick, the tilt of it barely complete. "I am humbled by your advice. 'Rdonmai."