Li Xin and Christie both realized the seriousness of the situation. If their guess was true, then the situation would be even more chaotic.

"Sally William is the legitimate daughter of Marquis William, who controls the Mother Goddess School. Sally was sent to deal with Didia, which definitely means there's something wrong with her. And yet, she ate the Gourmet's food without issue, and Anthony also had no problem," Christie said with a serious expression. "Are you sure about the pattern you mentioned?"

Everything was based on the assumption that what Mr. Cancer said was true.

"It's highly credible." After some thought, Li Xin concluded that since coming into contact with Mr. Cancer, his judgments about the Hidden Power were all correct. Arrogance was a part of his personality, but his skill was real, and he had no motive to lie. "Even if there's a problem with this pattern, Bocuse, as an elder of the Gourmet Association, has been in Hedan for a while now. I don't believe he's gained nothing. He must have come into contact with those who have consumed Dark Cuisine, so he shouldn't act as if he knows nothing. This is inconsistent with his attitude towards me."

Bocuse showed an excessive interest and friendliness towards Li Xin, but when dealing with the Dark Cuisine issue, he hid critical information.

"If that's the case, then Bocuse has a big problem," Christie said. "It means there's a possibility that Bocuse has an inextricable relationship with Dark Cuisine!"

"Behind the Commandery Princess is Prince Oliver, along with Bocuse, Marquis William, and the Hunting Enjoyment Club." Li Xin felt a chill down his spine. This was no longer just a hidden incident; it could very likely involve a royal power struggle. Getting involved could mean total destruction. If Bocuse is a wolf in hunter's clothing, then their actions are almost completely under the enemy's surveillance.

Where is the real hunter?

What role does the Gourmet Association play?

Fortunately, both he and Christie were outsiders, capable of pulling out if needed. Although they'd taken on this case, it wasn't without an escape route, and the influence of the Moon God's Court in Hedan was limited, so there was no need to act rashly.

Seeing the excitement in Christie's eyes, Li Xin had to remind her, "Christie, I think we should return this matter to Achilles. We've accomplished our task fully by getting this far."

The Night Patrol had brought the case to this point. Whether they were going to deal with the Funeral Attendant or discuss some transaction, it seemed about time to end it. Surely they wouldn't need to personally get involved in something that potentially involves a royal power struggle.

Christie smiled and gave Li Xin a kiss. "You're great, brother, but let's not rush. Let me investigate a little more!"

Looking at Christie's demeanor, Li Xin was very worried. With insights from his past life, he knew such struggles always end in a bloodbath. Insiders might have a chance at advancement if they choose their sides well. Outsiders, however, are unlikely to have a good outcome. He might not know Hedan or Moncalleta's historical culture like Christie, but his perspective transcends eras. There's simply no chance of gaining from this risky endeavor.

Christie sensed Li Xin's worry and smiled slightly, her eyes glinting with light. "Are you worried about me?"

"Sister, this isn't a joke, and Didia might have figured it out by now. Thinking about it, I'm not even sure of his stance, and positions can change. He also has to consider his family's well-being," Li Xin said thoughtfully. Judging from previous indications, Didia should be on Achilles' side, but the human heart is the hardest to predict.

"You think things through, right? You're correct. The Funeral Attendant will be the lead role next, but it's also a significant opportunity for our Night Patrol. Do you think your sister is foolish?" Christie laughed, "At this moment, I feel your actions finally match your age. Usually, you're so skilled, like a seasoned veteran."

"Ahem, I just read a lot," Li Xin said, spreading his hands helplessly. "It's so late; the inn must have closed. I can't go back."

Christie rolled her eyes at Li Xin, knowing exactly what he was thinking. At this point, how could he just leave?

"You can sleep here. This news is too timely and important. I need to make some arrangements. You wait patiently for me to return," Christie said.

"I'll go with you," Li Xin felt quite brave.

"You can't take all the credit yourself, just stay here and conserve your energy."

Christie didn't shy away. In front of Li Xin, she started changing into her night outfit, making his blood race. He dared not underestimate those who are fascinated by uniforms any longer.

After a passionate kiss, Christie hurried downstairs.

Lying on the bed, filled with a faint feminine fragrance, Li Xin couldn't sleep. The Hex Bird Society was just a front. The Night Patrol in Hedan ran a force, clearly indicating that Christie hadn't taken his words to heart. This was normal; different standings, different goals. With Christie's ability, she likely understood his concerns, but it might be her duty to proceed regardless.

Whether to liaise with Travis and Achilles would have to wait for Christie's return to decide. It probably involved a transaction between the Night Patrol and the Funeral Attendant.

Lying in bed, Li Xin also reviewed the situation. If Mr. Cancer's statements were wrong, or perhaps there was a technological advancement, it would just be a misunderstanding. But if it's true, even highly probable because of so many coincidences—Anthony ate the Gourmet's food with no issue, and the core members of the Hunting Enjoyment Club are clean—then whom did the Dark Cuisine, which slaughtered so many, serve?

Regarding the royal power struggle, it makes sense that Prince Oliver wouldn't accept having the throne taken and allied with the elders of Dark Cuisine, using it to control core nobles. Following this line of thought, who exactly is Bocuse?

That spoon indeed is only possessed by an elder of the Gourmet Association. Is he the elder and also the mastermind behind Dark Cuisine?

Who is the Dark Cuisine board member being hunted? Could he also be in Hedan?

This doesn't mean the hunted Dark Cuisine board member is good. It might be internal conflict. Regarding Hidden Power, Li Xin from the other world wouldn't have any illusions. Power is just power, without distinction between right and wrong. The nature of power depends on its use.

Hidden Power encompasses cultivation. Bocuse is either an explorer or a subsequent Fallen. The outcome remains unchanged. He is the number one Inner Demon, and the Gourmet board member who was driven away probably knows many truths. He is very likely hidden in Hedan, corresponding to the motive of the number one being exposed by the disposal of number two's body. But it is clear that Bocuse, under the Prince's protection, has the upper hand.

This also raises a question: how deeply involved is the Prince in this matter? Is he simply a powerful king being used?

Since growing up, such naive possibilities no longer exist.

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