The Million-Dollar Heart

In the dimly lit room perched atop an old, weathered building, the chief commander, a figure of authority and precision, watched intently through the scope of his high-powered sniper rifle. His target had just wandered into view, and a moment of hesitation flickered in his eyes.

What a predicament.

Knocking on the door of a seemingly abandoned house, Percival called out with a tone cold as the night, "Anybody home? We seem to have lost our way and could really use a glass of water."

As he spoke, his hand casually brushed against the pistol tucked in his belt. Vivienne, following closely behind, mirrored his actions.

Creeeak the door slowly opened, revealing a rugged man with sun-kissed skin and clothes that had seen better days. His face, though marked with traces of hardship, lit up with a warm, genuine smile at the sight of Vivienne and Percival.

Percival was taken aback, not expecting anyone to actually answer. Subtly, he returned his weapon to its holster.

he had spotted Vivienne, he had made a discreet call, ensuring her safety despite the tension that bubbled beneath the

him, Vivienne wouldn't have stood a chance. But orders were orders, and with a heavy sigh, he lowered his rifle, murmuring to himself, "Let them have their water, then send them

Vivienne nodded in thanks, their eyes scanning the interior of the modest home. It was a simple place, lacking

disposable cups, the man handed them over. Percival took a sip, then asked, "Does every house around here have someone living in it? It's broad daylight, yet the streets are deserted." The man paused, the voice in his ear guiding him. "Oh, everyone's probably out working the fields, trying to make

enough intel. Despite the lurking danger, it wasn't time to leave.

it was the only one he knew due to his rare ventures out of the village. Grateful, Percival promised to return the

Vivienne expressed a Curiosity in the local farming techniques, hoping to apply them to their own barren lands back home. Despite

the man out, Percival and Vivienne took in the sights of the village, noticing subtle differences in the houses that could easily be missed by an untrained eye. Led to the green fields, they were greeted by a sight of robust crops, a stark contrast to the

The mission was far from over, but for now, they had survived another day in this game of shadows and