Chapter 23: Mother-in-law (4)
An Hour Later
The courtyard facing the hallway was oddly silent, even though more than ten people were gathered.
The Arcain family and the Valtors stood under the afternoon sun, eyes fixed on the pair about to spar.
Janet stood tall, her long red hair tied in a ponytail. She had removed her formal gown and wore a simple white shirt tucked into trousers.
"I never knew the Duchess could fight," Thyra commented.
Alica, who stood next to Reynold and Thyra, answered. "Yes, she could always fight. Even though we never met each other, we were both among the top three prodigies of our generation."
Thyra remained silent for a while, then asked, "So how do you think the match will go, Mother? Do you think the youngest stands a chance?"
Reynold chimed in. "No."
After a beat, he added, "Even if I fought Janet with all my strength, I’d still lose."
Thyra’s eyes widened. "You mean—?"
Alica nodded. "Yes. She is a mid-level Elite."
Janet yawned lazily as she buckled her shoulder pad. "Will you keep the blindfold on?"