The Million-Dollar Heart novel Chapter 440

Thomas was taken aback, his eyes darting towards Percival.

"Ma’am, you're practically signing my death warrant here!" He yelled inside.

"Percival, hear me out. This is the training grounds. I have to be in combat gear. I am the Chief Instructor, and I can't very well train them in a suit and tie!"

Percival's eyes briefly swept over Thomas's attire without a word, instead wrapping his arm around Vivienne, and they made their way deeper into the training area.

For a few seconds, Thomas felt like he just walked through the valley of the shadow of death.

Leopold slapped Thomas on the back with a smirk, "Man, that gear does look sharp on you, though."

Thomas shot him a glare that could kill and kicked out at him half-heartedly, then quickly caught up with Percival.

"Percival, the training's halfway through. If we're bringing in the newbie, we might need to fast-track her."

Thomas implied that Anna had to pass the earlier assessment today if she wanted to keep her spot here.

Percival's stern face held a grave expression as he said, "Let's begin now."

Neither Vivienne nor Anna had any objections.

It was only fair.

If Anna could not pass the earlier assessments, it only proved she did not have the mettle to stay.

"Captain."

Off in the distance, a man in an olive-drab tee approached, saluting Percival crisply.

This was Soren, the physical training examiner.

After exchanging pleasantries with Percival, Soren sized up Vivienne. Then his gaze landed on Anna. "So you're the little lady who waltzed in through the back door?"

His tone was less than friendly, and his eyes were full of disdain.

Thomas signaled to him discreetly, whispering, "Soren, watch the attitude."

“Come on, man, she's Ma’am’s protégé. Besides, it's not like she wanted the shortcut. If she can't make the cut, even Percival won't keep her here. Don't be so aggressive, or you might just tick off Percival!” He thought, trying to signal Soren with his eyes.

But Soren acted as if he saw and heard nothing, continuing his spiel to Anna. "I'm the physical training instructor. We will start your assessment now. If you don't make it, beat it, and I don't care who brought you here."

His words were clearly directed at Vivienne.

Leopold, noticing Soren's target, stepped forward angrily, "Soren, who the fuck do you think you're talking to with that attitude?"

Vivienne, however, pulled Leopold back, her icy gaze landing squarely on Soren. "You’re not wrong. Show your worth, and don't waste my time."

Soren frowned slightly. "Who's wasting whose time is yet to be seen!"

A flash of annoyance crossed Percival's face. "Soren, empty threats aren't your style."

Soren, captain of the Vanguard Agency's special squad third division, was the most hot-headed of the captains, but his skills were second to none.

In terms of overall capability, he was stronger than Leopold and just as stubborn.

The only person he respected was Percival. As for Thomas and Leopold, Soren hardly paid them any heed.

Upon hearing Percival speak, Soren's attitude softened slightly.

"Fine, follow me. Let your skills do the talking." Soren gave Vivienne a warning glance.

That look piqued Vivienne's interest.

It seemed Soren's real challenge was with her.

Interesting.

Vivienne's lips curved into a slight smile, utterly unfazed by Soren.

Those who could not even beat Percival were not worthy opponents for her.

Anna tossed her backpack to the ground and faced Soren defiantly. "Let's not make this complicated. You be my opponent. If I win, I stay for training. If I lose, I'll pack up and leave without fuss."

Surprised by Anna's challenge, Soren saw the fire in the eyes of the teenager before him.

Anna changed into more comfortable clothes, and a one-on-one battle with Soren unfolded on the muddy training field.