The curvy mountain path, worn smooth by countless footsteps, wound through a dense forest of towering trees and lush vegetation, their branches effectively blocking the sunlight. Despite the welcome shade, many students complained about the arduous hike.

"This is exhausting! I can't go on anymore. Can't we take a break?"

Most, particularly Olivia's boisterous group, were unaccustomed to such exertion.

The vice principal, leading the hike, shot them an irritated glance. "I didn't even ask you to carry anything. You're practically empty-handed, and yet you complain of being tired? Funny how you never run out of energy when it comes to clubbing." The group fell silent.

Ahead, two large trucks, arranged by the Alverton village chief, delivered supplies. Villagers efficiently shouldered heavy crates, their muscles taut as they moved swiftly and steadily up the trail. Olivia pouted, muttering, "Kayla's lucky to be on leave and miss this training program. I would have taken leave too if I'd known sooner."

Her companions exchanged uneasy glances. One cautiously ventured, "Olivia, weren't you close with Kayla? You knew Felicia would charm Mr. Lawson during training, so you warned her. So why…"

Olivia's resentment was evident. She huffed, offering no reply. It wasn't entirely about Kayla; Arnold's rejection had left her humiliated, and she resented both him and Kayla's lack of support. She considered them both insincere. Crossing her arms, she lifted her chin and strode ahead.

The group eventually crested the mountain, reaching a gentler slope and crossing a shallow stream. Hillfort lay ahead, its cottages scattered across the mountain and its peaks.

Felicia deliberately slowed her pace, falling to the rear of the group. Shawn, silently following, concealed a knife and rope at his waist—the result of Kayla's persistent urging.

Since arriving in Alverton, Kayla's determination to eliminate Felicia had intensified; she pressed Shawn repeatedly, reminding him of the two million dollars awaiting him. The temptation—like meat before a hungry wolf—was irresistible.

He trailed the group, keeping to the shadows. The dense mountain foliage provided ample concealment. Spotting Felicia alone and lagging behind, he planned to strangle her undetected. He crept closer.

Felicia heard the rustling leaves behind her, sensing Shawn's approach. But then, Arnold emerged from behind a large tree ahead, seemingly waiting for her. "You're walking way too slow!" he called.

He had been walking with the vice principal but turned back upon noticing Felicia's absence. His sudden appearance startled Shawn, who dove into the bushes, frustrated at the lost opportunity.

Felicia's eye twitched. Was Arnold genuinely concerned?

His concern, however, seemed misplaced. "The whole group is waiting for you," Arnold said impatiently. "Don't you feel even a little guilty for dragging behind?"

Felicia, fighting her irritation, took a deep breath. For two days, Arnold had been observing her, and even this minor transgression had prompted his intervention. With a calm exhale, she tossed her two heavy bags of supplies at him. "Here. Since you're so capable, carry these."

Then, with a noticeably quicker, graceful stride, she continued on her way.