Felix stepped off the plane with just over an hour left until sunset. To his surprise, Xena was already waiting for him at the airport.

They got into the car without wasting time and immediately headed toward Laurel Resort. Time was tight, and the mission was critical—he had to stay at least one night to officially be considered a guest there.

"Are you sure you don't want to make any preparations?" Xena asked.

Felix remained calm—his strength had grown, and he had more information now. "There's no need. No matter how much we prepare, it's pointless, right?"

Xena was momentarily speechless, unsure how to respond. She had to admit that Laurel Resort was the strangest case they had ever encountered. Everything about the guests inside seemed normal, except for their unwavering insistence on staying, which somehow made the whole situation even more terrifying.

She asked, "Did your sources dig up anything reliable?"

Everyone had secrets, and Xena was smart enough not to pry too deeply