The Million-Dollar Heart (Percival and Vivienne) novel Chapter 1101

Vivienne Hawthorn had stumbled upon an unsettling truth in one of her mentor's ancient tomes as a child. It was said that children born during the witching hour, under a moonless sky, were cursed with a dire fate. In ancient times, such children were either abandoned or met with a more grim end.

The thought made Vivienne's gaze turn icy, "They've gone to such lengths to gather these people, all because they need their dark aura as a key component for the ritual."

But this ritual hadn't been activated in centuries. How could it suddenly resurface now?

The phrase "born during the witching hour, under a moonless sky" clung to her like a curse, choking her thoughts. On more than one occasion, Vivienne felt as if she couldn't breathe.

Juliette and Isaiah were born under such an ominous sign!

Percival Ellington, appearing seemingly out of nowhere, placed a comforting hand on hers. He knew all too well what was plaguing her thoughts.

"Don't worry too much, Vivienne. The kids have plenty of people looking out for them. They'll be safe," Percival tried to soothe her, although his words did little to alleviate her fears. Nonetheless, Vivienne nodded slightly in acknowledgment.

Given Percival's standing in Luck Village and his ignorance of the matter, it was clear these people hadn't been brought back here but were kept somewhere else.

"They might have kept you in the dark about this plan. It seems Sebastian doesn’t hold much sway here," Vivienne mused, recalling her arrival in Luck Village and the scenes that had greeted her. She was certain the village leader and his cohorts wouldn't easily show their hand.

"Let's try to find these people within the village first, but we need to tread carefully," Vivienne instructed before sending Percival off.

Dealing with Draven would have to wait.

The leader of the village, Mayor Thompson, noticed Sebastian leaving the courtyard, and his wife approached him, "My lord, those you requested have been moved here. Shall we go check on them?"

Mayor Thompson hummed a tune, his mood seemingly light as he walked deeper into the village. "Why didn’t you inform Sebastian of this? What if he discovers something?" The lady's constant looking back betrayed her nervousness.

Mayor Thompson wasn't concerned, "What if he does? I remember well what happened last time. If he so much as thinks of crossing me, he'll be the first I deal with!"

"This matter is crucial; we cannot afford any mistakes, especially not from him. We must be fully prepared and keep this under wraps. No one must catch wind of this!" Mayor Thompson’s eyes glinted with a sinister light, reminiscent of a serpent, unsettling to behold.

"If it comes to that, his life is over anyways. Serving our cause would be his honor!" Mayor Thompson hissed, pushing open the door and stepping inside to where those still unconscious were kept. His expression softened slightly at the sight.

"With these people, my plan cannot fail!" His eyes gleamed with greed, a long-awaited moment finally within reach.

The village was abuzz, and Vivienne felt the constant surveillance. It wasn't merely being watched; it felt like they were verifying something.

A smile played on Vivienne's lips before she vanished around a corner.

As evening settled and Mayor Thompson returned from the secret base, he was greeted by his own people and smiled.

"How is the Thousand-Hands Healer's preparation?" Despite his smile, there was no warmth in his eyes, giving him an eerie demeanor.