The Million-Dollar Heart

A group huddled in conversation, but Jasper was soon dragged away to the backyard by the playful antics of two kids.

Vivienne, with an exasperated look, turned to Finnian, who was hunched over a box, inspecting its contents for authenticity. "Master, you've accepted the item. It's time to stop beating around the bush." Finnian paused, reluctantly closing the box before his tone shifted. "My dear girl, what do you take me for? Didn't I give you enough clues over the phone yesterday?"

In the whole wide world, if anyone knew Finnian best, Vivienne would proudly claim that spot without hesitation.

Before securing the so-called Heavenly-Snow Lotus, it'd be a cold day in hell before Finnian spilled the real beans.

To Vivienne, it was all about drawing information out of him, piece by piece.

She gave him a knowing look. "Would you really discuss something as valuable as the Heavenly-Snow Lotus over the phone?"

Finnian was momentarily speechless.

Wasn't his caution just to prevent eavesdroppers?

After all, it had taken him three days of relentless research to uncover that information. If it got into the wrong hands, he'd be livid.

The chill in the hall made their tea cool rapidly. Vivienne took a sip and grimaced slightly at its temperature.

Percival, noticing her discomfort, quickly intervened before any further conversation ensued. "Master, Vivienne, maybe it's better to continue this discussion inside. It's quite drafty out here." He then stood, offering his arm to Vivienne and leading her into the parlor.

Finnian, puzzled, looked around, failing to notice any draft.

Perhaps the younger generation was just more health-conscious.

In the parlor, Percival fetched a blanket for Vivienne and handed her a mug of hot water, ensuring her comfort.

Finnian, realizing he was out of the loop, stroked his beard and playfully chided, "Come here, let me check on you. How's your health?"

groaned,

she was already on a ten-day herbal regimen prescribed by Mr.

if she'd ever see the light of day

Let's focus on the

in the dark about this. What, you think you can hide it from me

met his

I suppose. Luckily, I have nine other disciples. If I called them all now, we could at least fill a table..." Vivienne's

Percival watched, bemused.

A smooth pulse; it suggests a baby girl. I've

at the news, "Master,

with a knowing look, teased, "You

corrected

told you about your fortune before; you're destined to have a

given much thought to children. But

towards fortunes, Vivienne interjected, "Have you

still holding her wrist, adopted a more serious tone, "Hold on. You've been through a

answered, "She's already

it?" Finnian probed

but roll her eyes,

wrist, then inquired, "Have you found out

Vivienne frowned, "Not yet."

suspected it might relate to Delilah, but everything - from

triggers. Your well-being is

let that go, would you? Records of that family are scarce, suggesting they've mostly died out.

in, intrigued, "About

It's a tale as old as time

closely matches your description, involving an ancient ritual of consuming human hearts