Adrien's mouth opened in a smile of relief; he hadn't recognized that before, but something within himself had been wound too tight - and it had just come loose. "Right", he said. "You're right. I'll try to do better". He took another sip of water, then leaned back into the armchair.

"Besides, you do know what to do with Earth magic in a duel", Val said, his smile now a bit mischievous. "You already know that it can be used for stopping".

"Oh -- right", Adrien chuckled. "Right... You're right. I don't know why I wasn't thinking about that".

"It happens", Val smiled. "Sometimes we get too wrapped in what we know, and overlook the possibilities".