On the journey from Khogend to Seldvale, the Fuller couple remained unusually compliant, neither struggling nor attempting escape. They both knew deep down that neither would abandon the other; if they couldn't escape together, there was no point in running at all. Kayla successfully completed her task.

Returning to the Carrell residence in Seldvale, she didn't concern herself with the Fullers' fate. Her first question to the maid was, "Has Pete returned?"

"Pete returned not long ago. He's in the main hall."

Perfect! Kayla eagerly ran to the main hall.

Inside, Pete sat leisurely in a rosewood folding chair, sipping tea with an air of refinement. Steam curled upward, partially obscuring his features. His pale hands, with pronounced veins, held the teacup; he projected a unique masculinity.

Kayla softened her footsteps and voice. Pete looked up, his dark eyes, sharp nose, faintly smiling lips, and kind gaze exuding warmth. "Kayla," he replied gently.

She blushed, then bravely approached, wrapping her arm around him. "Pete," she said coquettishly, "I've brought the Fuller couple. How do you plan to reward me?"

Pete smiled. "What kind of reward does my little cousin want, hm?"

Kayla bit her lip. "Pete, has the map been deciphered? Are you planning to go there yourself? I want to go with you!"

"Sure," Pete agreed warmly, gazing deeply at her.

Kayla was overjoyed. She'd expected refusal, but his willingness surprised her. "Thank you, Pete!"

Her face flushed, her heart brimming with happiness. She didn't notice Pete subtly withdrawing his arm as he raised his teacup. Behind the teacup, the smile vanished from his eyes.

That day, Pete departed Seldvale with Kayla and the Fullers, heading to the location deciphered from the map—a remote canyon a thousand miles away, surrounded by uncharted mountains, connected to an unnamed river and waterfall.

The first day of their journey went smoothly. On the second, their itinerary leaked. Rumors spread that the Carrell family possessed the real map. Various factions, both overt and clandestine, turned their attention to the Carrells. It didn't take long for Pete's destination to be discovered.

Seemingly anticipating this, Pete used the Fullers as scapegoats, claiming they'd seen the map and would guide them. He then ceased hiding his movements, even welcoming others to follow or join their search. No one understood his actions.