Each sentence below has two blanks. Choose the pair that best fits both. Her refusal to compromise on ethical principles, even when under severe institutional pressure, reflected a rare ________ of conviction and ________.

A. harmony, prudence “Harmony” = balance, agreement “Prudence” = cautiousness → Doesn’t fit — being cautious doesn’t describe moral courage.  B. blend, obstinacy “Blend” fits grammatically, but “obstinacy” means stubbornness — negative tone, unlike the positive moral strength implied.  C. rigidity, confidence “Rigidity” is inflexibility, also negative in tone. “Confidence” fits but together the phrase feels off — it suggests arrogance, not integrity.  D. fusion, courage “Fusion” = merging or combination “Courage” = bravery → Perfect match: a rare fusion of conviction and courage.  E. tension, fearlessness “Tension” suggests conflict, not unity. “Fearlessness” fits, but the pair doesn’t logically express the intended idea.