"Wait."
Nedra, who had just been approaching them, came to a stop.
"How do I know this isn't some scheme between you two?" Vaelor asked. "What if she gives you an easier puzzle?"
"Oi, Ocren." Nedra narrowed her eyes. "You calling me a bloody cheat?"
"Yes."
"You little—"
"That's enough."
Zephyrion cut her off before she could continue. Nedra turned toward him, and to everyone's surprise, simply huffed, flicked her hair over her shoulder, and stepped back.
"He's right," Zephyrion said. "There's no way to prove it's fair."
Vaelor simply nodded, as though it were the obvious conclusion.
"Then how exactly is this supposed to be fair?" Tobias frowned. "There isn't a neutral party here."
Though Zephyrion had suggested Nedra oversee the game, in truth, he had expected this exact objection.
He turned his gaze to Vaelor.
"Then what do you suggest?"
Vaelor fell silent, his eyes narrowing in thought. A moment later, a smile spread across his face.
