"You resolve this within an hour, or you're fired," Gerard commanded in a stern whisper.

"Understood," Calvin responded immediately.

Lilah, however, dismissed the need for drastic actions. "Gerard, they want to see us break up. We won't play into their hands. Besides, there's nothing to clarify. A clean hand needs no washing," she stated evenly, seemingly indifferent to the entire affair.

Meanwhile, Jeffrey, who had also seen the news, found himself in a difficult position. Lingering on the fringes of the crowd, he stole glances at Lilah, wanting to explain things to her but hesitating for fear of fueling further rumors.

Caught in a dilemma, Jeffery noticed Lilah gesturing to him. His heart skipped a beat, and he felt an urge to slip away.

Yet, before he could act on it, Lilah approached gracefully, linking arms with Gerard.

As she neared, Jeffery's insight deepened: Lilah was wholly unconcerned about the current situation.

"Lilah, Gerard." He greeted them, extending a hand to Gerard with formal politeness.

"You've done a remarkable job today. The turnout is impressive. However, I have a small favor to ask. I'd like to include a particular girl in this batch." Lilah's response came with a charming smile, her eyes shimmering with a guileless sparkle that stirred a complex wave of feelings in Jeffery.

"Given the regulations, all candidates must pass the initial test. Yet, given your endorsement, she must be quite capable. Where is she? Please, bring her forward," he remarked.

"Really?" a voice chimed in from behind him. Hadley emerged, a hopeful tone in her voice. "Mr. Welch, may I bypass the test? That would be wonderful!"

Despite her recent recovery, Hadley's appearance still suggested frailty, prompting Lilah's strategy to integrate her with the first group of trainees. This initial training phase, being less demanding, would provide Hadley the opportunity to build her strength gradually.

Observing the delicate girl before him, Jeffery felt a twinge of uncertainty. Typically, the Fearless League recruited individuals with a background in martial arts, as this increased their chances of passing the rigorous tests.

This young girl, however, appeared fragile and seemingly unversed in any form of combat training.

His concern grew over whether Hadley could handle the upcoming orientation for new members.

"Of course, you can make it, but you'll need to give it your all." Jeffery encouraged her with a reassuring smile. He had already decided to pair Hadley with another novice in the first competition at tomorrow's newcomers’ meeting.

Hadley responded with a determined nod, "I'll definitely give it my best, especially since Lilah recommended me."

Lilah then proceeded to inquire about Hadley's recent rehabilitation training and emphasized the importance of self-care to prevent further health issues.

Jeffery proposed the idea of establishing a health recovery center within the Fearless League, where members could learn to restore their health properly if they sustained injuries or fell ill.

Lilah found his suggestion quite beneficial and planned to implement it after further discussions with Barth.

The four conversed amiably, oblivious to the surprised looks from the surrounding crowd.

"What's going on? Isn't Lilah supposed to be having an affair with Jeffery? Why are they all together like it's no big deal? And right in front of Mr. Harris too."

"An affair? I don't think so. Maybe the whole thing was just a baseless rumor, and that's why they're acting like it doesn't even matter."

"Im growing more and more bewildered by this. There's endless gossip about it online, and it's all turned out to be pointless."