When Felix returned to Canraville, Averill had already left. He woke up from a deep, satisfying nap at sunset.

Just then, Xena arrived at his house.

Felix asked, "Weren't you supposed to stay in Yartford for a few days?"

Xena's expression was grim as she explained, "We discovered traces of human trafficking in Canraville. Though we only found about a dozen children at the scene, headquarters takes these cases very seriously and wants a thorough investigation, so I came back immediately."

Felix feigned ignorance and responded with anger, "Human traffickers? Those bastards deserve to die."

Xena studied Felix's face carefully. "Are you sure you don't know anything about this?"

"Why would I know anything?" Felix asked, puzzled.

Xena leaned forward, noting that Felix's breathing and eyes remained steady. "The bodies showed evidence of acupuncture needles, and we can confirm they were tortured before death."

Felix's expression turned wry. "Just because acupuncture needles were in