After the first two rounds, Baron Lavend had 1 + 2 = 3 points, Miss Witte had 3 + 3 = 6 points, and Shade had 3 + 4 = 7 points. Unless Shade busted, there was no way Baron Lavend could win the championship. But if the baron withdrew now, then even if Miss Witte defeated Shade, the overall score would only be a tie. Thus, despite having no hope of victory, Baron Lavend remained out of gentlemanly concern for the fairness of the total score.
After the three readjusted their seats, the referee, Mr. Justin, had to loudly announce the start of the match several times before he could barely draw everyone's attention back.
"Miss Witte, come to think of it, this is also my first time playing Rhodes Cards with a lady."
With one person missing, the remaining three had rearranged their seats. Shade now sat beneath the Grape Arbor, opposite Miss Pawo, while the referee, Mr. Justin, stood opposite Baron Lavend.
The six-ring Sorceress from The Truth Society wore a smile, as though she were truly enjoying tonight's grand banquet.
"Mr. Hamilton, you will find that ladies are no worse at mathematics than men."
The three received their hole cards. Shade did not look at his and simply signaled for another card.
Miss Pawo's Delarion accent was exceptionally standard, just as her Kasonlik accent was polished enough for her to serve as a government spokesperson.
"Then, Lady, are you very skilled at mathematics?"
Shade asked, then looked at his second card along with the other two. By remarkable coincidence, all three had exactly the same number, though in different suits. Shade had Stars 7, the Sorceress had Flower Seven, and Baron Lavend had Sun 7.
"What a coincidence."
The baron said with a smile, signaling for