$


    "Felix, this is Zara Morgan. I''m sorry, but Mr. Grayson''s watching me closely, so I had to use a new number to contact you," she exined.


    Even now, Felix could not understand why Ss had made him make that promise.


    "Go ahead. I''m listening," Felix replied calmly


    "Well... could you apany me somewhere tonight? I could go alone, but the ce is supposedly haunted at night, and I''m really scared," Zara rified nervously.


    Felix found her excuse rather strange. "Zara, normally, I''d help you with anything, but I


    word.'' made a promise to Mr. Grayson. I don''t want to go back on my


    Besides, Ernest was there at that time. If Ss found out about this and came looking for Felix, it would only bring nothing but trouble.


    "I know, but you owe me a favor. Surely a man of honor can repay a debt?" Zara countered.


    Felix had to admit she had a point, which immediately eased his conscience. "Alright. I''ll see you tonight."


    "I can''te out easily. Could you buy some protective charms? I heard the ones at Sixview Peak in Canraville are really effective," she requested.


    Felix was surprised at how seriously she was treating this matter. Nheless, he agreed, "Alright. I''ll handle it."


    Even though Felix did not believe in ghosts or anything supernatural, he figured he might as well check out Sixview Peak since Zara was being so insistent. Still, he could not help wondering why someone skilled in both medicine and martial arts would be so spooked. Eventually, he brushed it off and treated it as just a girl thing.


    Meanwhile, at his own home, Drake was rudely awakened by a phone call. He said, "Oh? That''s quick! These imported listening devices are working well. Keep it up!"


    After hanging up, Drake leaned back with a smug grin. He muttered, "Going to Sixview Peak for charms? Sorry, but you''re going to be disappointed!"


    He had resorted to these underhanded tactics after several failed attempts to deal with Felix. He even reached out to Luis, a figure in Canraville''s underworld, only to be tly rejected. Luis had not only refused but warned him that Felix was far more dangerous than he seemed.


    After much consideration, Drake bought a vi near Felix''s manor and installed surveince equipment, hoping to gather useful information.


    An hourter, Felix was climbing toward Sixview Peak, noting the considerable crowd that justified the location''s reputation. Near the entrance, he spotted Drake, who was grinning as if he had been waiting.


    Felix tried to ignore him, but Drake approached anyway. "Felix, what a coincidence meeting you here! Is it fate, or are you just walking straight into my hands?".


    Felix did not break his stride as he responded, "I already exined things clearly at the hospital. You''re out of chances, so watch what you say and do-you won''t like the consequences."


    Drake''s smile widened as Felix passed by. "This is only happening because we''re in Dragonia. In Azuria, I could end you with a single word!


    "Do you think your little talents let youpete with me for Nancy? You''re dreaming!"


    Drake continued smugly, "For example, when I say you can''t enter Sixview Peak, you can''t enter!"


    As if on cue, two gatekeepers stepped forward, blocking Felix''s path. They stated firmly, Sorry, but you''re not wee at Sixview Peak. Please leave."