Chapter 329

Under everyone's watchful eyes, Orion's assistant presented two identical porcelain bowls. Pristine white, delicate blue patterns adorned their surfaces.

Elsie's expression turned serious. "Mr. Lloyd," she warned, "in authentication, the toughest challenge is the twin test."

"What's the twin test?" Andrew asked, eliciting a helpless sigh from Elsie. She couldn't understand how Andrew seemed so uninformed yet had earlier spotted the sacred relic.

She explained, "The twin test involves two identical pieces—one authentic, one fake—indistinguishable to the naked eye. These bowls, for instance. Usually, we'd use professional knowledge, experience, touch, and specialized equipment, but the competition rules prohibit tools. You'll need a different approach."

Orion extended a hand, smirking. "You have five minutes to identify the authentic bowl. Though I know even five hours, or five months, wouldn't help you."

After his taunt, Orion's assistant fetched him a chair, and he settled in with a leisurely air.

Aspen offered a mocking smile. "Andrew," she said, "luck doesn't last forever for fools. The twin test has stumped countless experts. Even if you know nothing, losing to Mr. Kelce would be a respectable defeat!"

The crowd focused on Andrew. Many believed the young man had finally met his match.

Cedric shouted angrily, "Orion, you shameless bastard! Even seasoned experts can be fooled. Isn't this unfair?"

Orion replied with a smug smile. "A bet's a bet. In an authentication competition, anything goes. Kid, if you can't handle it, surrender. Kneel before me—I'll let you off easy."

Many spectators urged Andrew to give up. "Young man, Mr. Kelce has forgotten more about antiques than you've ever known. Come back in twenty years if you want to challenge him." "It was sheer luck you found the relic. Know your place." "Just admit defeat. It's nothing to be ashamed of. Mr. Kelce defeats many antique masters annually."

The Jayrodale antique experts looked troubled. They wanted to help Andrew, but knew their expertise paled in comparison to Orion's. Speaking up would only make them look foolish.

Andrew stared at the bowls and smiled slightly. "Is this supposed to be difficult? To me, the real and fake are obvious at first glance—it's quite simple!"

His words caused an uproar.

Orion fumed, "Such arrogance from a mere child! Even I could make a mistake, let alone someone like you."

Aspen laughed, shaking her head. "Andrew, if you can't tell them apart, just admit it. Stop showing off."

An antique expert approached, a wry smile on his face. "Mr. Lloyd, you can't spot the difference with just your eyes. You need professional knowledge and experience to convince everyone."