You're Quite a Formidable Opponent

<.Chairman Delaney's residence, Serenade Hills.>

Sipping a cup of tea, Lariette's fond gaze fell on Ruediger and Chairman Delaney in front of her. The two men were currently engaged in a battle on the chessboard.

Lariette and Ruediger were welcomed warmly by Chairman Delaney who anticipated their arrival. Once they stepped into the house, the silver-haired old man asked Ruediger if he was skilled in chess.

The young man readily accepted the elderly man's challenge, much to the latter's delight.

The three of them gathered in Chairman Delaney's favorite lounge. The sun was high up in the sky as the time approached noon.

As Lariette was enjoying the tea and an array of fluffy pastries, Ruediger and Chairman Delaney's attention was on the board game.

'I never think they'll get along this well. Grandpa only plays chess with the people he's comfortable with.'