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?"

inwardly groaned, fearing this

she was already on

started fussing, she wondered if she'd

need, Master. Let's focus on the matter at hand. I'm short on

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

simply met his

Finnian conceded, "Well, a student grows beyond her teacher's control, I suppose. Luckily, I have nine other disciples. If I called them all now, we could at least fill

Percival watched, bemused.

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

brightened at the news, "Master, are you

with a knowing look, teased, "You prefer

corrected himself, "I'll be happy with either,

fortune before; you're destined to have a good family

given much thought to children. But the idea of having a family with her felt

pair turned their discussion towards fortunes, Vivienne

"Hold on. You've been through a shock recently. Have

"She's already taking

it?"

but roll her eyes,

then inquired,

Vivienne frowned, "Not yet."

to Delilah, but everything -

answer isn't on the surface. If you can't identify the cause, best to steer clear of potential triggers. Your well-being is paramount right now." Understanding his hint,

that go, would you? Records of that family are scarce, suggesting they've mostly died out. Abigail, if connected, is likely from a minor branch. As for the rumor you're interested

leaned in,

time - the more fantastical, the more fervent the

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