National Asset Program - I

"Probably," Ace answered with a shrug. Then, switching gears, he invited everyone, "Anyway, have you guys had breakfast yet? If not, you're all welcome at my place. Pancakes and bacon are on the menu. My mom and aunt stress-cook, so there's plenty to go around."

"I should probably stop by and explain what happened," Janice said as she dismissed her armor, storing it away in her earrings. She pulled out her cursed compact mirror, quickly wiping away the blood from her skin and clothes while freshening up her makeup.

"Yeah, you should," Ace agreed. "But let's get our story straight first. I told Mandy you were entertaining a foreign oligarch as your guest—hence the rude security detail and the noisy Apaches."

"That'll do. As expected of a habitual liar," Janice quipped, smirking. Then, tilting her head in curiosity, she asked, "How did you know the weak point of my cursed castle tool was the house's foundation?"