Chapter 960: Part of It Went Missing

Hearing Madilyn's question, Roxanne sighed. "It's a long story."

Madilyn entered the living room with the children. "Tell me everything slowly, then. But first, get me something to eat." She had risen straight from bed and was famished.

Roxanne fetched the extra sandwiches she'd prepared for her friend. As Madilyn ate, Roxanne recounted yesterday's events.

The moment Madilyn heard about the children's bacterial infection, the sandwich tasted like ashes. "Who dared to harm my godsons?" The thought of Archie and Benny's suffering caused her heart to clench. She hugged the boys, who reassured her, "Don't worry, Aunt Madilyn! We're fine now!" They jumped up and down, demonstrating their recovery.

Estella, still shy around Madilyn, stood near Roxanne. Madilyn quickly scooped her into a hug. "How awful to harm such a sweetie!" she exclaimed, heartbroken. The thought of someone hurting Estella ignited a fierce desire for revenge.

Roxanne was stunned by her friend's intense reaction. After releasing Estella, Madilyn looked at Roxanne. "Whose doing was it? Any leads?"

Roxanne nodded, then shook her head. Madilyn was bewildered. "There are clues, but nothing useful yet," Roxanne explained, briefly recounting her earlier efforts.

Without hesitation, Madilyn offered, "I'll help. I've met many people in Chanaea over the years."

Roxanne gratefully accepted. After leaving instructions for the children, she took Madilyn to her study. Seeing the four remaining research institutes on her list, Madilyn raised an eyebrow. "I've collaborated with these institutes."

Roxanne's eyes lit up. Madilyn immediately began calling. Three calls yielded nothing unusual; Roxanne could sense it from her friend's tone. Only one institute remained.

With mounting hope, Madilyn made the final call. After pleasantries, she inquired about the bacteria. The answer was immediate: the institute had indeed researched that bacteria, and some had gone missing before.

Roxanne's eyes gleamed. Observing Madilyn's somber expression as she pressed for details, Roxanne shifted her gaze. Madilyn turned, put the call on speakerphone, and the researcher's voice filled the room.

"Manufacturing this bacterium is complex, costly, and difficult. We value it highly. Half a month ago, we produced a new batch, but part of it went missing."