A few days later, rumors began spreading among European business circles that Valemoor's products were unfit for export.The rumors claimed that Valemoor's wine was contaminated, that its fruits contained dangerous pesticides, and that their quality failed to meet international standards. The false stories spread rapidly, like wildfire across dry grass.Thom began receiving calls from several of his business partners in Europe. They were worried. Some were even considering canceling their contracts."Mr. Thom, we've heard troubling reports about your products," said a businessman from Lyon. "We can't afford to take the risk. Our reputation is on the line."Thom remained calm."Those are false rumors spread by our enemies. I can prove that Valemoor's products are clean and of the highest quality. Give me one week."After ending the call, Thom acted immediately. He contacted every one of his business partners, shipped product samples to independent laboratories for testing, and asked th

One day before Christmas, Valemoor was already glowing with festive lights and decorations. Every house was adorned with pine garlands and small candles flickering in the windows. A warm holiday spirit embraced the village as everyone busied themselves preparing for the celebration. At Thom's house, a magnificent Christmas tree stood proudly in the living room, decorated with handmade ornaments crafted by the villagers. Red Dragon stood outside Thom's house, wearing his thick jacket and his signature boots. He had been assigned to pick up Pear from the city airport. Driving the village car toward the airport, he felt completely indifferent. To him, it was just another routine task. He would pick Pear up, bring her home, and that would be the end of it. But the moment he arrived at the airport and saw her, everything changed. Pear was wearing a simple blue dress that flowed gracefully around her figure. Her long hair cascaded over her shoulders, gently swaying in the breeze. Her

Several weeks after Christmas, Valemoor was once again preparing for a special arrival.Elias had sent word that he and Freya would be arriving soon. The entire village buzzed with excitement. Elias was a young hero in their eyes, and the arrival of a military officer from a neighboring country quickly became the hottest topic of conversation throughout Valemoor.Thom stood at the village gate alongside Jasmine, who carried Shenina in her arms while baby Yitzhak rested peacefully in a sling. Pear and Red Dragon stood beside them, their fingers intertwined.A black car rolled through the entrance and came to a stop in front of them.The door opened, and Elias stepped out with a broad smile. Dressed in his neatly pressed military uniform, he looked taller and more commanding than before. His face had matured, radiating confidence that hadn't been there the last time they met."King!" Elias called as he strode forward and wrapped Thom in a tight embrace.Thom hugged him back warmly."Wel

In Thom's workspace. Elias sat with his head bowed, his hands gripping the edges of the chair tightly. Thom stood by the window, gazing out toward the dark forest."Are you sure she heard everything?" Elias asked, his voice hoarse.Thom nodded without turning around. "I deliberately left the door slightly ajar. I wanted her to know that I already knew. I wanted her to react."Elias lifted his head, his eyes red. "You used me as bait?"Thom turned and looked at his brother. "Yes. I used you as bait, Elias. And I used it to uncover the truth."Before Elias could answer, hurried footsteps were heard in the corridor. Jasmine entered with a pale face."Thom! Freya is gone! I saw her leave through the back door with her bag!"Thom moved immediately. "I know. I expected that."He rushed toward the back door, followed by Elias and Jasmine. On the ground, footprints were still clearly visible leading into the forest. Thom crouched down and examined the tracks."She took her documents. She won'

Elias and Freya emerged from behind the rock, both pale-faced as they watched what had just unfolded. Freya fell to her knees, her tears finally spilling over."I... I'm sorry," she sobbed. "I should have never accepted this mission."Thom walked closer, staring at her for a long moment before finally extending his hand."You have a choice now, Freya. Help us stop them, or spend the rest of your life running."Freya stared at his hand, then looked at Elias, who nodded slightly, giving her reassurance. With trembling fingers, she reached out and grasped Thom's hand."I'll help you. I promise."***Three days after the incident in the forest, the tension in Valemoor had yet to subside. Thom sat in his study, gazing at a piece of paper containing the brief interrogation results from Freya. Across the table, Iris—his right hand in the Golden Circle—waited for instructions."The Obsidian Circle moves fast, King," Iris said. "The handler's death isn't the end. It's a signal that they'll sen