"Sure!" Anita replied without hesitation.

The other Hualand designers exchanged uneasy glances; some seemed alarmed, while others looked at the male designer resignedly.

They thought he was too impulsive, but they also understood his drive to defend their country's honor.

Anita's voice dripped with provocation. "He's accepted the bet. What about you, Lilah?"

Lilah's gaze hardened. "If you fall short, you owe Hualand an apology about what happened at the previous exhibition."

Without missing a beat, Anita declared, "Consider it done."

She radiated assurance, not merely from her prowess, but from the support she sensed from the Fauwille Design Association.

Holding her chin up, she declared, "I eagerly await our outcome," and made her exit.

An older designer from Hualand patted the male designer's shoulder.

“You jumped the gun there."

The male designer exhaled deeply. “I couldn't let her keep taunting us. She's insufferable."

As he regained composure, he looked apologetically at Lilah.

Now, with all on the line, a fellow designer remarked, her voice heavy with worry, “Lilah is the only one who represents Hualand now."

Lilah's gaze was unwavering, an air of quiet resolve around her.

"Trust me. I've got this."

The remorseful male designer declared, “Lilah, I apologize. If it comes down to it, we're in this together."

"Understood," replied Lilah.

They lingered, wanting to inspect designs from Hualand.

Later, Lilah headed to her hotel room, prepping for the following day's challenge.

A late-night knock interrupted her thoughts.

"Yes?"

Lilah's eyes narrowed upon seeing Bernard, her distaste evident.

Admiring her striking features, Bernard grinned. “Considering our shared heritage from Hualand, I thought I'd offer some unsolicited advice. The title is beyond your reach."

Lilah arched an eyebrow. "So, the winner's pre-decided?"