“Alright, let's continue with our discussion," Cyrus interjected smoothly. "Since there seems to be a reluctance to speak, Xavier, now is your opportunity to shine.”

With a malevolent grin, Xavier accepted the dagger from Kyler and advanced toward a man in black who Devonte had pointed at earlier.

“Consider your options carefully, my friend. You're a young man, handsome and likely unmarried. Would any decent woman choose you if you were less... complete?" Xavier questioned with deceptive sincerity.

The man in black shivered, his throat parched. His eyes, filled with defiance, met Xavier's as he clenched his teeth. "Do your worst! Just end my life!”

Xavier shook his head. "There's no need for death. I merely seek the truth."

With a deft movement, he hoisted the man by one arm and yanked down his trousers with the other.

"Ah!" The man shielded himself, his face flushing a deep shade of red.

He looked over his shoulder, panic evident in his eyes.

He recognized the one who had commanded him but feared the consequences of betrayal. Silence meant his own death. Speaking could doom his family.

Xavier's impatience boiled over, his expression turning ominous. “You dare harm Lilah! I swear, I'll start by severing your manhood!"

His hand flashed, and the dagger swooped down.

The man in black reacted just in time, sidestepping. The blade sliced his thigh, drawing a stark Line of blood.

Unable to bear the tension any longer, his eyes bloodshot, he stuttered, "I'll confess, I'll confess!"

Xavier's eyes sparkled with anticipation. "Let's hear it then. Everyone's patience is wearing thin."

With great effort, the man in black turned his head and gestured toward Bartley.

A collective intake of breath rippled through the crowd.

Bartley, equally stunned, protested, "That's a lie!"

Cyrus and Kyler noted his reaction with keen interest.

They shared a look, both spotting the genuine surprise in each other's eyes.

Bartley's demeanor didn't seem feigned. Was it possible he was uninvolved?

Yet, why would the man in black single him out?

"I... I speak the truth," the man in black said, his voice quivering as he fought to articulate each word.

“It was Miss Arya Gomez. She hired us to administer a neurotoxin to Miss Phillips, ensuring she could never return to martial arts. Given her frail condition, it might even prove lethal..."

He laid out his confession succinctly.