The direct confrontation intensified the already tense atmosphere. The air crackled with hostility. Archie sighed deeply, looking pained and troubled. "How could you think that of me?" he asked. He didn't need to explain; some would believe him.

Imogen, enraged, shouted, "Stanley, that's enough! I know you've been by Stephan's side for years, and your bond is deep, but that doesn't give you the right to falsely accuse and slander Archie! I'm letting you off this time, but you'd better watch your mouth. If I hear any more of these baseless accusations, I won't spare you!"

Stanley's expression was complex. After a pause, he replied, "Yes, Ms. Russell." He had previously advised Stephan to expose Archie's true nature directly, reading the toxic examination report to Imogen. This, he believed, would make capturing Archie easier, eliminating the need for roundabout tactics. Stephan had countered, "She won't believe it." He seemed to be right. Even with proof, Imogen would likely dismiss it as slander. What should they do?

Stanley fell silent. Subordinates arrived with doctors and renowned physicians. They examined Stephan, then emerged shaking their heads.

Imogen urgently asked, "What's going on?"

"With this poison, even God couldn't save him," one replied. "We can't do anything. I'm sorry."

The physicians departed. Imogen nearly collapsed, crying, "What's happening? How is my brother?"

The physicians softly explained, "Mr. Russell is clinging to life, giving final instructions."

Stanley's eye twitched. Imogen fainted. Stanley instinctively reached out, but Archie was faster. Johanna hurried after them.

At the airport, as their private jet landed in Seldvale, Felicia felt a wave of heat. The temperature was much higher than in Khogend, and the impending rain made the air heavy and stifling. Felicia and Scarlet took a cab to the Russell residence. Felicia had been there before and recognized the way. Within half an hour, they arrived at a luxurious mansion that seemed to occupy an entire mountain.

Scarlet, accustomed to wealth, marveled. "My, oh my. It's no wonder they say the Russell family is a symbol of power and wealth. Just looking at their residence is awe-inspiring!"

Then, slightly uncertain, she poked Felicia. "Boss, are we really going in? They're not going to throw us out, are they?"

Felicia chuckled. Just as she was about to say no, she considered Imogen's hostility and replied, "It's possible."

Scarlet nearly jumped. She lowered her voice. "You asked me to be your bodyguard, but you didn't say it'd involve this level of danger!" She was confident in a one-on-one confrontation, but this was different.