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, fearing this

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

wondered if she'd ever see the light

Let's focus on the

insisted, "Even your grandfather is in the dark about this. What, you think you can hide it from

met

suppose. Luckily, I have nine other disciples. If I called them all now, we

Percival watched, bemused.

felt her pulse, "Ah, this is promising. A smooth pulse; it suggests a baby girl. I've always preferred

the news, "Master, are you

a knowing look, teased,

and quickly corrected himself, "I'll be happy with either, as long as it's Vivienne's

you're destined to have a good family life. Plenty of children in

thought to children. But

pair turned their discussion towards

adopted a more serious tone, "Hold on. You've been through a shock recently. Have you

answered, "She's already taking

who prescribed it?"

couldn't help but roll her eyes, "My

finally released her wrist, then inquired, "Have you found out

Vivienne frowned, "Not yet."

but everything - from Brody's insights to hospital tests -

best to steer clear of potential triggers. Your well-being is paramount right now." Understanding his

"You wouldn't let that go, would you? Records of that family are scarce, suggesting they've mostly died out. Abigail,

leaned in, intrigued,

"Exactly. It's a tale as old as time -

continued, "One version closely matches your description, involving an ancient ritual of consuming human hearts for