Fight against Lise

As soon as dessert was finished and the story-telling laughter died down, Lise turned to me, her brown eyes gleaming with mischief and something far more serious. Her grin widened, showing a sharpness that matched her words. 

"So, Mini-Zephara," she began, casually leaning back in her chair, "you think you're really cut out to carry that title, huh?" 

I stiffened, narrowing my eyes at her. "Mini-Zephara? Really? That's the best you've got?" 

Lise shrugged, her blue hair cascading messily around her shoulders. "What? It fits. You've got her fire, her attitude, and, apparently, her temper. But talk is cheap. I want to see if you're actually worthy of being Leora's granddaughter." 

My jaw tightened, but I couldn't stop the thrill of excitement that ran through me. I knew exactly what she meant. 

"You're challenging me?" 

Leora groaned, setting her fork down with an exaggerated sigh. "Not in my dining room, you're not."