"What are you implying, Young Master Joshua?" Chiffon frowned, looking down at the boy. Joshua smirked back at him, no shame or fear in his eyes.

"It is what it is. Shouldn't you try it for yourself? See if I really did borrow a monster's power or not? You can tell for sure if we fight, can't you?"

‘One wrong move and I'll be punished by the Master. But if it was his real ability…’ Chiffon's jaw clenched. Agreeing was not an option, right in front of the Duke. The vassals who had raised their voices earlier now wore casual expressions and kept their lips sealed, as if the whole situation had nothing to do with them.

‘They're like vultures.’ Chiffon cussed under his breath.

‘If it comes to a fight… the boy's skills are…’ 

Chiffon was loath to admit it, but Joshua really didn't...