They'd been sparring the better part of the morning when Clorinde suggested they take a break. Coated in sweat, she and Ayaka rested on the bench as they drank water. Suddenly the heiress spoke.

"Say, Clorinde? Who would you say is the most skilled warrior in the UHA?"

"The Raiden Ei," she answered without hesitation. "Hers is the most flawless of techniques, and her power is without rival."

"Then, in your opinion, who is the most skilled human combatant?"

"Hm. Arlecchino and Shenhe have remarkable raw power. Both have exceptional battle instincts honed by their training. Though, I believe Jean, Beidou, and Dehya are equally talented."

"And where do you suppose we rank in comparison to them?"

She gave it a moment of thought.

"Humbly speaking, we are both far below Shenhe and Arlecchino in power. In technique? I could not say."

"Thank you for your honesty."

Ayaka took a deep breath. Studying her blade in her hands, she took on a solemn expression.

"Once, I almost fought Ei and Shenhe for Aether. How ironic." She chuckled. "Now, should Aether ever be in danger, the three of us would fight together to protect him. We won't fall behind them."

Clorinde nodded in agreement. The two took up their blades and resumed their duel.