Chapter 457: Chapter 483 Wang Hu Confirms His Love
Xiao Hong felt that something was suspicious. She was ambiguous, certainly having committed a serious mistake. Wang Hu should not be dragged into it. Wang Hu nodded; he thought the same.
Bai Fanglan was both ashamed and angry, almost to the point of bursting with rage. But she couldn’t leave in a huff and kneeled before him, choking up, "What’s the point in discussing past events? I promise this will be the last time I trouble you. Please don’t be so heartless; consider the child we lost..."
Xiao Hong interrupted her, "Hasn’t Wang Hu compensated you? Everything has a limit. Once it’s too much, it’s fake. You’re not disabled. You’re healthy, young, and have a college education. What’s so difficult about finding a job? You simply don’t want to work hard yourself and want easy money, but how is that possible?"
"Shut up," Bai Fanglan shouted angrily, "Who asked you to mind our business? Matters between Wang Hu and me are not yours to interfere with!"
Xiao Hong slightly frowned and became silent.
Wang Hu said, "Xiao Hong is right; I won’t help you find a job. If you want to kneel, you can just keep kneeling."
After saying this, he took Xiao Hong’s hand and walked away quickly. Xiao Hong’s entire arm felt stiff, and turning back, she glanced at Bai Fanglan left crying on the spot, then at Wang Hu.
Wang Hu chuckled, "Stop looking. No matter what happens to that woman, I won’t care."
"Hmm, but you’re still holding my hand."
"Is it wrong for me to hold your hand?"
Xiao Hong blushed, "But... but you said it was fake."
"It’s real now. Can I really hold your hand now?" Wang Hu smiled as he looked at her.
Xiao Hong lowered her head, rarely shy.
Wang Hu said, "I need to ask for your forgiveness. I’ve been divorced because I was immature in handling emotions and lacked empathy, like a wooden post, which hurt some people."
"I also dated before, but we broke up due to personality differences," she was quick to say, "Those romantic things aren’t suitable for us soldiers; we’ll be a fitting pair. Don’t ask about the past, but cherish the present!"
Though Wang Hu had a cold temperament, he was quite lenient with his own, giving Xiao Hong confidence that she’d have a good life with him.
Wang Hu laughed out loud, deciding to forget the pretensions. Together, they walked hand in hand.
Thus, Xiao Hong, once just helping out, became truly involved in the relationship, though Wang Hu’s parents weren’t aware.
A few days later, Wang Hu’s father’s lung examination results came out, just a minor inflammation from excessive smoking, and everyone breathed a sigh of relief. Mrs. Wang resolutely banned his smoking and incidentally pressed Wang Hu to finalize the marriage plans.
Both families highly approved, hastily setting their wedding for New Year’s Day, intending to relocate quickly. Otherwise, in such a remote area, how could Xiao Hong be pregnant? The parents were worried.
Thinking it over, Wang Hu agreed; he had been away long enough.
Things were joyous in their circle, but Bai Fanglan was miserable. Pleading with Wang Hu yielded no results, so she sought out other acquaintances. However, her grandfather, now retired, led these people to be extremely perfunctory towards her. Furthermore, Bai Fanglan’s affairs had become widely known, making hospitals reject her due to her poor medical skills.
Soon after her expulsion, she was forcibly discharged and returned home, only to find Bai Chuan had prepared a purchased train ticket for her.
Infuriated to the point of liver pain, Bai Fanglan bit her lip, "Grandfather, are you really giving me no way out? Just driving me away like this?"
Bai Chuan sighed, "It’s for your own good! Staying here no longer holds any meaning. I’m getting old, truly cannot withstand the stress anymore. Don’t worry; every month when my salary comes, I’ll send you fifty bucks."
Bai Fanglan coldly laughed, standing up abruptly, "Fine! Since you dislike me so much, I’ll leave! You’ll get your wish!"
She returned to her room and slammed the door.
Bai Chuan shook his head and went to care for his great-granddaughter. The child was pitiable; Bai Fanglan never cared while working, and even now unemployed, she remained indifferent.
The next morning, Bai Chuan woke up to find Bai Fanglan’s room in disarray. Everything was thrown about, yet she was gone.
Bai Chuan was puzzled; what happened? Then on the table, he found a letter.
Bai Fanglan said she’s left, gone south to find work, aiming to return once successful. The child was left for Bai Chuan to care for temporarily. Besides her jewelry and savings, she also took four thousand bucks from Bai Chuan’s drawer.
Bai Fanglan left in a fit of anger, refusing to believe she wouldn’t succeed! She vowed to get revenge! Against everyone who looked down on her and ignored her!
Bai Chuan worried, struggling to catch his breath, almost fainting. What on earth is Bai Fanglan trying to do!
The child from the next room cried out loudly, and Bai Chuan couldn’t neglect her, so he went to take care of her. Seeing her dark, gaunt face, Bai Chuan sighed deeply too, poor child. No father, and a mother who’s always negligent.
Bai Chuan’s previous grand ambitions were wiped away, leaving him with only taking care of the child daily.
Meanwhile, Sun Chan’s situation gradually returned to calm. Yuan Bing, due to his indecency and attempt at intentional homicide at their camp, faced serious charges. Coupled with Gu Junming’s thorough investigation, a raft of Yuan Bing’s business misconducts came to light.
Including tax evasion, engineering fraud, and bribery, among others, these evidences ensured Yuan Bing likely wouldn’t come out for life. People all around talked about it extensively, mostly cursing Yuan Bing and Bai Fanglan, some discussing Sun Chan.
Zhuang Lin was jumping up and down vigorously, but her husband knew and suppressed her decisively.
Later, the camp erupted with another scandal, overshadowing this one. It turned out Liu Gang secretly wrote reports, intending to falsely accuse Gu Junming!Chapter 645
Timothy shrieked in pain and turned in the direction where the branch had come from. His eyes were filled with fury as he asked, "Who ambushed me?"
There were only trees in sight, and nobody was there. Mad and flabbergasted, Timothy knew that the attacker was strong. A person who could pierce through his palm and then a tree with a branch must be a divine grandmaster.
Hence, he hurriedly summoned his ride-Hurricane Eagle. When Hurricane Eagle arrived, he jumped on it in a hurry and escaped.
Kaitlyn sighed in relief and bowed, saying, "Thank you for your help, sir. Please step out so I can thank you in person."
Obviously, she wasn't going to receive an answer. Just then, Sebastian walked out of the forest next to her. Thinking that the hidden expert had revealed themselves, Kaitlyn twirled around and found Sebastian instead.
"It's you? Why are you still here?"
"Didn't you ask me to be your pretext? I can't leave just like that," Sebastian said.
"Aren't you afraid that I'm going to kill you?" Kaitlyn said dangerously.
Smiling, Sebastian shook his head. "You would have killed me already if you wanted to. Why did you wait until now?"
"It's because you still have some use. Once you lose your value, I'll kill you," she said coldly.
Sebastian smirked without a word. Finally, he realized that Kaitlyn was a kind person. She was tough on the outside but soft on the inside. Although she kept saying she'd kill him, she never meant it.
"I'm returning to the sect. Don't forget your promise earlier to help me find that old man within a month. If you can't do it, I swear I'll kill you," Kaitlyn uttered and left.
"Hang on," Sebastian stopped her.
"What else?" she asked, looking back at him.
"Do you know how to leave this world?" Sebastian implored.
Besides the advanced third stage technique, this was currently his other big concern. Many people were waiting for him and they must be worried since he had been missing for such a long time He must
find his way back as soon as
possible.
s
"Leave this world?" Confusion was written all over Kaitlyn's face. "I have no idea
what you're talking about. I'm going now if there's nothing else."
Sebastian nodded and left the spot as well because he could sense people heading this way at a high speed. They must be the experts from Netherworld Sect who had heard squads of the fight from earlier. s
He planned to make a trip to Holton and find out from a few more people about ways to leave this world.
Unbeknownst to him, a young man was leading a group of people to Jenna's house. His name was Sean Knott, Martin's nephew and Heather's cousin.
With a loud bang, Sean kicked and broke the wooden door before marching into the yard aggressively. "Sebastian Wilder, get out here!"
Jenna and Fressia rushed out after hearing the commotion. "Who are you?"
Sean's mouth opened to say something, but he suddenly saw Fressia and was smitten by her beauty. "What a gorgeous woman! Are you Sebastian Wilder's wife?"
"Yes. Do you know my husband?" Fressia asked.
"Damn it. That bastard is really lucky to marry such a beautiful woman." Sean's face was full of jealousy. "Where's SebastianChapter 646
Upon Sean's command, a group of hitmen charged at Jenna and Fressia. One of them kicked Jenna so hard that he broke her legs, then they rained punches and kicks on her.
"Jenna! Stop it!" Fressia wanted to save Jenna, but she was helpless and couldn't even save herself.
A few men dragged her into the house. Despite having cultivation, she didn't know how to put it to good use.
"Remove all her clothes! I'll be the first, and the rest of you can queue up after me." Sean was losing patience, starting to undress after stepping into the house.
Fressia was so scared that she turned pale. She pleaded with them miserably, but they had no compassion at all. Instead, they were even more excited.
Lying in the yard, Jenna didn't even have the strength to get up. Besides cursing loudly, there was nothing else she could do.
Although the neighbors heard the commotion, they didn't dare to stick their noses into this because someone recognized that these people were from the Knott Estate.
...
Holton was a bustling city, and the streets were full of people. Suddenly,
hoofbeats echoed from the front. It turned out that a carriage was out of control, rampaging on the street. Terrified, the pedestrians jumped out of the way in panic.
Sebastian stood at the side of the road as well, but a little girl's cries in the middle of the road caught his attention.
Seeing that the carriage was about to hit her, the little girl froze on the spot in fright and continued crying. Without hesitation, Sebastian stood in front of her in a flash and placed a palm on the horse's head.
The big and tall horse fell from the huge impact, flipping the carriage to the side as well.
"Ah!" A woman in the carriage shrieked, and two people dashed out of the carriage.
They were a middle-aged man and a gorgeous young lady. The moment she stood up, she turned to Sebastian and said in a huff, "How dare you flip our carriage! The nerve of you!"
"I did it to save a life." Sebastian pointed at the little girl.
When the young lady wanted to say some more, the middle-aged man stopped her. "Abigail, it's alright. He didn't do it on purpose. Moreover, we almost hit someone earlier."
"How are you doing, Father?" the young lady, Abigail Watson, asked in concern.
"I'm fine. I can still take it." The middle-aged man seemed frail and left with Abigail's help.
"You're in a terrible condition now. If you don't receive treatment on time, you'll pass away in half an hour," Sebastian said.
"How dare you cure my father!" Abigail was enraged.
Sebastian chuckled softly. "I'm merely telling the truth. Your father sustained a hidden injury when he was younger and has been dragging it way too long. It's a miracle he's alive until now." s
that
ghat
"How do you know that my father has a hidden injury from his early years? Who are you?" Abigail asked warily.
"I'm a doctor. Your father's illness is clearly written on his face, and I can tell with just a look," Sebastian explained proudly.
"Since you're so amazing, do you have a way to treat it?" she asked with a hopeful face.
All these years, they had visited
many famous doctors and even
whonet
asked help of the
the help of the alchemist
from
fort
otherworld Sect, button
avail.
s
"It's a piece of cake to me. He'll be as good as new with one pill," Sebastian answered.
Abigail grabbed his arm anxiously. "What pill is that? Let me have it! I promise to
pay you handsomely as long as it can save my father."
"The pill is very precious," Sebastian explained.
"That's not a problem. My father isChapter 647
"Do you know how to leave this world?" Sebastian asked.
"Leave this world?" Abigail wore a look of confusion.
Hendrick Watson suddenly interjected, "Mr. Wilder, do you mean leaving Coreland?"
"Do you know about it?" Sebastian was exhilarated. His biggest fear was that no one knew about it.
"So, the records in the ancient books are real! Honestly, I didn't know about it. I've only seen some records in an ancient book," Hendrick explained.
"Where's the ancient book?" Sebastian asked anxiously.
"Wait a minute. I'll ask someone to bring it." Then, Hendrick ordered a worker to bring the ancient book.
Hendrick soon found the part where Coreland was recorded. After checking it carefully, Sebastian finally found a clue. "The Abyss!"
If the records were accurate, the way out of Coreland was through The Abyss.
"Mr. Wilder, The Abyss is a death zone. Anyone who goes in there will die. Don't act recklessly," Hendrick advised.
Abigail nodded in agreement. "Yes. The Abyss is one of the three forbidden areas. For thousands of years, no one has walked out of there alive.
"The records in the ancient book may not be correct. I think it's just a myth. It's impossible to have another world. That's all nonsense."
Sebastian merely smiled without a reply, feeling even more confident that The Abyss was the exit. Although it was a forbidden area, he had to take the risk in order to get back and only after he obtained the advanced stage three technique.
The stage three technique must be within the doors of Netherworld Sect. There were three ways to get it. The first method was very straightforward robbing.
With his strength, not even a thousand men from the Netherworld Sect were his opponent. In spite of that, it was ethically wrong to rob so brazenly.
The second method was stealing. Although it was also ethically wrong, it was slightly better than robbing.
Last but not least was trading. He had the techniques for the first and second transformations. They would probably agree if he traded one of them with them.
Sebastian was a man of his word. He asked Abigail to get him a brush and paper and wrote dozens of herbs in one shot.
These were the herbs needed to produce the Ultimate Nourishing Pill. This pill could strengthen the body and increase the cultivation. In the meantime, it could also heal injuries.
As the largest commerce
association in the county, the Holton Chamber of Commerce had all sorts of herbs. Some herbs had a different name as the ones in the surface world but
dese after Sebas
Abigail
knew which ones he meant.
belongs to s
After the herbs were prepared, he started making the pill right away. The chamber
of commerce had a place dedicated to making pills, and there was also a mini
Spirit Gathering Formation.
Beneath the cauldron was magma,
which could save a lot of energy
during the refining process. In addition, Sebastian's cultivation had greatly increased, so it didn't the him at af to refine the Ultimate
Nourishing Pill. s
In less than half an hour, it was ready. Hendrick was stunned when Sebastian presented the pills to him.
"Goodness, this is a second-grade medication. I didn't expect that you're a second-grade alchemist, Mr. Wilder. It's an honor to meet you." Hendrick politely bowed down low toward him, full of respect.
The way Abigail looked at Sebastian took a change as well, her eyes filled with admiration. There was even an odd light in her eyes, and her face blushed unwittingly.
"Are second-grade alchemists amazing?" Sebastian asked, puzzled.
As there were only a handful of alchemists in Coreland, he never found out his alchemy level.
Hendrick replied, "Of course, they are. It's incredibly rare to find an alchemist, and every one of them are very noble.
"All bigger sects and families are spending a lot of money to recruit them, and they enjoy generous benefits if they work for the royalties.
"Furthermore, second-grade alchemists are even harder to find. The head alchemist of Netherworld Sect is their fourth great-elder, Bertha Erikson. She's a second-grade alchemist."
"There's only one third-grade alchemist in Starfire Empire, and he's the imperial chaplain. His status is high, and even the king has to respect him," Abigail added.Chapter 648
Now that Sebastian already knew where the advanced stage three technique was and the way back home, he planned to return home and explain everything to Fressia.
Before he even reached the door, he already sensed something amiss. The door was missing, and pieces of wood were scattered around.
His instinct told him that there was trouble, so he bolted over as fast as he could.
Upon entering the yard, he saw blood on the ground, and the unease in his heart amplified.
"Jenna! Fressia!" he shouted while dashing into the house.
One of the rooms was a complete mess, and there were also bloodstains. There was even a large hole on the roof.
"Jenna! Freesia!" He dashed back to the yard and continued shouting their names, but nobody answered.
Hence, he utilized his spiritual senses. The next second, he turned to the haystacks nearby and was over there in a flash. Parting aside a bunch of dry weed, he found Jenna.
Her face was covered in blood, and her breathing was barely noticeable. She already slipped into a deep coma, and her life was hanging on a thread.
Hurriedly, Sebastian pressed his palm against her and injected his spiritual energy into her to treat her injuries.
His spiritual energy had strong healing effects. In seconds, Jenna's breathing gradually stabilized, and she slowly opened her eyes.
"You're back, Sebastian." Jenna's voice was very weak, but her expression took a great change the next second. "Sebastian, run! The men from Knott Estate want to kill you!"
"Don't worry, Jenna. They can't do anything to me. Tell me what happened. Where's Fressia?" Sebastian implored anxiously.
Although he and Fressia were from different camps and were even enemies, they were husband and wife before she recovered her memories, and they have feelings for each other.
"I don't know where she is, either." Jenna briefly told him what happened.
The men dragged Fressia into the room with indecent intentions, but Jenna had
no idea what happened later. There was a fight, and then, she heard a loud bang.
Jenna was in the yard and only heard someone saying, "After her!"
Afterward, everything was quiet.
Later, she crawled into the house, dragging her exhausted body, but there was nobody inside. All she saw was a hole on the roof Worried that the men from the Knott Estate would return, she hid between the haystacks and passed out unwittingly. s
"Martin and Heather Knott, I'll make sure you die a horrible death!" Sebastian clenched his fists, his eyes gleaming coldChapter 649
"Don't cry, and rest assured, Jenna. I won't strike unless I'm confident, but I can promise you that I'll bring Fressia home," Sebastian assured.
Time was crucial in saving a life, not to mention that Fressia was gorgeous. In the hands of those inhumane men, it wasn't hard to imagine the torture she'd have to go through in their hands.
Therefore, she must be saved as quickly as possible. Any minute later meant that she would suffer more.
For now, Jenna's condition was stabilized. Unfortunately, her legs were broken. Even after Sebastian had given her an Ultimate Nourishing Pill, she'd still need a few days to recover.
Sebastian was ready to return Jenna to the room and then save Fressia when he heard sounds of hooves from outside the door. He looked outside and saw dust rolling as a group of stocky bandits headed toward his house on galloping horses while carrying weapons in their hands.
The chief was a tall and burly skinhead. With a chubby face and eyes as big as golf balls, he looked ferocious and intimidating.
At the sight of them, Jenna's face fell. "Oh, no! They're the bandits from Mount Blitzen, and their chief is Brork Gantz. Run, Sebastian!"
In this world, many bandits claimed mountainous areas to be the chiefs, and Mount Blitzen was the closest bandit lair to this village.
To the kind and innocent villagers, bandits were more terrifying than the nobles. Although the nobles would also intimidate them and even steal the virginities of brides, they would usually return the women to their families after they were done with them.
However, bandits were different because they often murdered and plundered. It was common for them to violate young women and abduct the pretty ones to be their wives. Once they were bored of them, they would kill them.
Due to this, bandits were akin to devils in the villagers' eyes, and the fear they held for bandits was deeply instilled.
Undoubtedly, Sebastian wasn't afraid of the bandits, and he waited for their arrival silently.
Their house was not located at the entrance of the village, but the bandits headed straight for them and entered their yard.
"I heard that there's a beautiful bride in this house. Bring her out here and show me," Brork directly announced the reason that he had gone there.
Although Fressia had only been there for a short time, everyone who saw her would be stunned, and her beauty was already known far and wide.
After hearing news of her, Brork had brought his men here to bring her back for their own enjoyment.
Anxiously, Jenna fell to her knees. "Mr. Gantz, the men from Knott Estate have abducted my goddaughter-in-law."
"You're lying! Search the house!" Brork wouldn't be taken in so easily. Upon his order, the bandits behind him hopped off their horses and headed for the house. s
"Stop right there!" Sebastian bellowed out of the blue, and everyone froze.
"Don't be rude, Sebastian. Apologize to Mr. Gantz now!" Jenna berated sternly Then, she flashed Brork a smile, "Mr Cantz hChapter 650
"Get on my knees for him? He doesn't deserve it. Get up, Jenna. There's no need to be afraid of them," Sebastian said.
The bandits were enraged, charging at him ferociously. Some even raised their swords, ready to cut him to pieces.
Jenna couldn't bear to watch and could already imagine Sebastian's terrible death.
On the other hand, Sebastian didn't move a muscle or dodge. Brork simply thought that he was too frightened to move and sniggered.
The next second, swords landed on Sebastian, but there was no bloody scene.
Everyone merely heard a loud boom as a terrifying energy erupted from Sebastian's body. In an instant, the terrifying energy shattered the swords, and the bandits were thrown off, spewing out blood and dying before even hitting the ground.
"What?" After seeing this scene, Brork was flabbergasted, his eyes filled with shock and disbelief.
The men he had brought with him were the elites amongst his henchmen, and they were all warriors, including the second-in-command of the bandits, who was a pinnacle warrior.
Sebastian had killed all of his men solely by releasing his energy. This was a fearsome strength, and Brork reckoned that not even a grandmaster might be capable of it.
"You're a grandmaster!" Brork's face was full of shock. "Why is there a grandmaster in a small village?"
Sebastian raised his head at him and said indifferently, "You've successfully enraged me, and the price to pay is death."
"What arrogance!" Brork snorted. "So what if you're a grandmaster? I've been the king at Mount Blitzen for more than two decades. The Knott Estate has tried to take me down many times but to no avail. Why do you think I could achieve this?"
Suddenly, he jumped and gave Sebastian a palm through the air.
A huge wave of energy blasted toward Sebastian, who was unfazed and composed. With a wave of his hand, an even greater energy erupted from him.
Along with another loud bang, Brork's attack was repelled, and the remaining force struck him without stopping.
As though struck by lightning, Brork was blasted away by the energy and threw up blood, his eyes filled with shock.
There was a thud as Brork landed heavily on the ground after he was blasted off more than 30 feet away. The impact was so strong that it created a concave in the ground.
Sebastian's eyes were impassive, and with a flash, he was right in front of Brork. Quick and silent, he moved like a ghost.
Brork almost wet his pants as he begged for his life on his knees in panic. "Please spare me. I was wrong. Please let me off."
"Bandits have done all kinds of evil, violating women, plundering, and many other heinous deeds. You deserve death, and I'll rid the people of such a wicked many today Sebastian said. s
Right before he struck, Brork said anxiously, "Please hold on and listen to me, sir. Although I'm a bandit and have done many wrong, I usually plunder and rarely kill.
"Furthermore, I rob the rich and hardly harass the villagers. Please let me off. I promise I'll never do it again."
"I'm missing a henchman now. Are you able to obey me unconditionally?" Sebastian asked.
"Y-Yes, master!" Brork didn't dare to disobey. He had succumbed to Sebastian's strength and had no thoughts of defying him.
Meanwhile, Jenna was utterly flabbergasted by the scene before her eyes. She knew that Sebastian was strong because he coChapter 651
"You can refuse, but I'll kill you right now," Sebastian said coldly.
"I'll go! I'll go, okay?" Brork almost cried. Not going meant death, but going also meant death. It was just supposed to be a simple mission, so how did things get so unlucky for him?
The two of them rode their horses at full speed and soon entered Holton, heading straight for the Knott Estate. Upon arriving at the entrance, they dismounted and barged right in.
"Hold it!" the guards immediately shouted harshly.
Sebastian acted as if he hadn't heard them and continued walking straight ahead.
"How dare you trespass on Knott Estate? You're courting death!"
Enraged, the guards drew their swords and slashed at Sebastian.
Sebastian ignored them, leaving Brork no choice but to intervene and send the guards flying.
The fallen guards were both shocked and furious, and they quickly called for help. Hearing the commotion, more people from the Knott Estate rushed out.
"Sebastian Wilder!"
Many recognized him immediately since Heather had been seen showing him around Knott Estate not long ago.
However, they were also aware that Sebastian had fallen out with their young lady, so they angrily shouted, "How dare you barge into Knott Estate?"
"Tell Martin to get out here!" Sebastian shouted fiercely.
"How dare you disrespect the city lord! You're asking for it! Seize him and bring him to Mr. Knott for punishment!"
The leader of the guards commanded, and a group of them charged at Sebastian. Sebastian stood still, making no move to fight back.
Brork was internally groaning. He knew all too well that if he didn't act, Sebastian wouldn't hesitate to kill him. So, he reluctantly braced himself and joined the fray.
He was a grandmaster. Even though he was injured, he was more than capable of handling these guards. Each strike sent several flying, and not a single one could get close t Sebastian s
The leader was furious. "You're Brork Grant, chief of the bandits from Mount Blitzen, aren't you?
"How dare you cause trouble at the Knott Estate! You've got some nerve! Guards, kill him!"
The Knott Estate guards were ranked by level. The ordinary guards weren't even considered warriors; only the squad leaders had that status.
In addition, there were silver-armored guards, all of whom were warriors, with the squad leaders being mid to advanced-level warriors among them.
At the leader's order, a group of silver-armored guards charged at Brork. But a grandmaster was still a grandmaster, even wounded, he was not someone regular warriors could match. s
They quickly fell one after another.
"You're courting death!"
The leader was enraged. He suddenly leaped into the air and struck down at Brork with his palm.
Brork was caught off guard and hurriedly raised a fist to block the attack. A resounding bang followed, and he spat out a mouthful of blood as he was sent flying.
It was clear that the leader was also a grandmaster. He then approached Sebastian with an air of arrogance.
"So, you managed to get Brork on your side. That's impressive, but if you think you can storm the Knott Estate by relying on him, you're far too naive."
"Rely on him?"
Sebastian smirked. "I have never relied on anyone but myself. Brork is merely my slave."Chapter 652
Heather had just joined Netherworld Sect and was still a newcomer. Nevertheless, she often wasn't present at the sect, which somewhat surprised Sebastian.
What he didn't know was that Heather joined the sect mainly to have Bertha help treat her illness. As for cultivation, she didn't really need to rely on the sect because she had a family-legacy technique that was nearly as good as what the Netherworld Sect offered.
Moreover, she had been practicing it since childhood, so switching to a new technique would be more trouble than it was worth.
Heather stormed over, brimming with fury. "Sebastian, you've got some nerve! How dare you trespass into Knott Estate and show disrespect to my father! Today, I'll personally chop your head off!"
When Sebastian saw Heather, his eyes flashed with a hint of anger.
Heather had drugged him. While he was unconscious, she had used evil methods to extract his spiritual energy, blood essence, and even bone marrow, all before throwing him off a cliff.
If not for his strong cultivation and resilient body, he would have died. He had not forgotten this grudge.
He hadn't immediately sought revenge on Martin and Heather because he was still searching for the third stage of his technique and a way home, so he endured it for the time being.
But to his shock, this father-daughter duo had crossed the line by targeting Jenna and Fressia. They had simply pushed him beyond his limits.
"Heather, it was one thing for you to harm me, but why go after Jenna and my wife? They're just ordinary people," Sebastian demanded sharply.
Heather sneered. "They're just two lowly commoners. I was already merciful enough to not kill them."
At that moment, Martin also walked out. "Heather's right. Sebastian, I'm surprised you're still alive after everything, and you don't even look injured.
"If I were you, I'd have found a place to hide long ago, but here you are, handing yourself over."
Sean and others followed behind Martin. He turned to Heather and said, "Heather, there's no need for you to dirty your hands. Just stand aside and watch-I'll kill him myself."
"Fine, but don't let him die too easily. I won't be satisfied unless he suffers," Heather said coldly.
"Don't worry. I promise he'll enjoy every bit of it!" Sean assured with a cruel grin. He then looked at Sebastian and said, "If you kneel down and beg for mercy now, maybe I'll let you keep your corpse in one piece, you brat."
"The ones who should die are you
people! Release my wife
immediately, or I'll slaughter
everyone in knott Estate!"
wel
sebastian's voice was filled with
murderous intent. 's
Heather scoffed. "You're really delusional. A mere ant like you talking about wiping
out Knott Estate-you don't know your place!"
Martin sneered wickedly. "So, you're here for your wife, huh? Too bad you're too late; we already played her to death."
"What did you say? She's dead?" Sebastian was stunned. If Fressia hadn't lost her memory and married him, her fate would have been irrelevant to him. He might have even celebrated her death s
But now, it was difficult for him to accept that she was gone.
།
Martin smirked triumphantly. "That's right. I have to admit, your wife was really beautiful. She was such a joy to play with. We took turns, dozens of us, one after another, untilshe died from the sheer pleasure of it." s
shea
"You're asking for it!" Sebastian could no longer suppress the fury within him, and
a terrifying killing intent erupted from his body.
In an instant, everyone present felt a chill of fear, and even Martin was taken aback.
At that moment, Sebastian suddenly moved, grabbiChapter 653
Sebastian acted as if he hadn't heard anything and broke Sean's other leg with another kick.
Sean was in so much pain that tears were streaming down his face. "Please, spare me! I was lying earlier! Your wife isn't dead, and we didn't hurt her."
"Then, where is she? Let her go immediately!" Sebastian demanded, his voice dripping with murderous intent.
Martin quickly added, "I don't know where she is! We never captured her in the first place."
"You're still lying to me!" Sebastian snarled as he crushed Sean's shoulder blade.
Sean almost passed out from the pain. "I'm not lying, I swear! We planned to do something to her, but she suddenly went wild! She broke through the roof, and escaped. We chased her for a long time but couldn't catch her.
"I'm telling the truth, please, spare me."
Sebastian let out a sigh of relief, trusting Sean's words. Fressia's memory loss hadn't affected her abilities; it was entirely possible she escaped through the roof when in danger.
Heather shouted angrily, "Sebastian, I advise you to release my cousin immediately, or I'll have you cut into a thousand pieces, leaving you without a complete corpse!"
Sebastian ignored Heather and looked at Sean. "Even if you didn't hurt my wife, you still harbored evil intentions toward her. Not to mention, you nearly killed my godmother.
"You deserve to die!"
With that, Sebastian snapped Sean's neck with a loud crack.
"Sean!" Martin rushed forward to check, but Sean was already lifeless.
"He actually killed Mr. Sean! The nerve of him!"
Everyone at Knott Estate was filled with rage, and Heather's murderous aura surged as well. "How dare you kill my cousin? I'll have you torn to shreds!"
Heather immediately advanced toward Sebastian, unleashing a terrifying aura. "She's a pinnacle warrior!"
"Ms. Knott is truly remarkable! As expected of Holton's number one
prodigy. She's reached the pinnacle Warrior level at just
She now has
a real chance of becoming
20
grandmaster before she turns 18." s
"That's right. Her talent is unparalleled, rivaling even that of Ms. Kaitlyn from the Netherworld Sect Her future achievements are limitless!" s
Everyone was full of admiration, their eyes brimming with fervent worship.
"Die!" Heather shouted, clenching her fist as she prepared to strike Sebastian. Just then, a commanding voice rang out from a distance.
"Hold it!"
།
The voice wasn't particularly loud, but it carried an undeniable authority that shook everyone to their core. Heather feft a jolt of fear and instinctively halted. fo s
They all turned toward the source of the voice and saw a middle-aged man
striding forward, accompanied by a young girl.
"It's Mr. Watson!" someone exclaimed.
The man was none other than the chairman of Holton Chamber of Commerce. He was accompanied by his daughter, Abigail.
"Mr. Watson, what brings you to Knott Estate?" MartChapter 654
Hendrick knew that Sebastian was no ordinary person. Since Sebastian wanted to handle things himself, it was clear he had confidence in himself, so Mr. Watson stepped aside with a sense of relief.
However, he remained ready to intervene at any moment. Sebastian had given him a new lease on life, and he was determined not to let anyone harm him.
Heather stared at Sebastian coldly and said, "I don't know why Mr. Watson is protecting you, but anyone who goes against Knott Estate is as good as dead!"
As she spoke, she unleashed her aura again, making the guards around her feel incredibly oppressed.
Heather smirked smugly. "Do you see this? This is my power. It won't be long before I become a grandmaster. In my eyes, you're nothing more than an insect. If you kneel and apologize now, I might consider leaving your corpse intact."
Sebastian responded with a mocking smile, "Even grandmasters are nothing more than ants to me. You don't even qualify as one, yet you dare spout nonsense in front of me? How laughable."
"You're asking for it!" Heather shouted furiously. She raised her hand and struck Sebastian with a powerful blow.
Sebastian merely stood there, not moving an inch, appearing as though he was paralyzed with fear.
Hendrick was startled by this and was about to step in to save him when he noticed something strange.
Heather's palm had already connected with Sebastian's chest, but he remained completely unaffected, as if nothing had happened.
On the other hand, Heather's expression changed drastically as she was filled with shock and disbelief.
Sebastian showed her a disdainful smile and then extended his hand, pressing it in her direction from a distance.
An invisible force immediately bore down on Heather. She had no strength to resist and collapsed to her knees with a loud thud while her eyes filled with terror. "What?"
Everyone present was stunned. Heather was a pinnacle warrior, yet after hitting Sebastian with a palm strike, he remained completely unharmed.
With just a distant press of his hand, he had forced her to her knees. This kind of power was just too terrifying.
Heather struggled to stand, but the invisible force was too overwhelming, rendering her unable to move.
"This can't be! How is your strength so formidable?"
"It's not that my strength is formidable; it's that yours is too weak," Sebastian replied, delivering a slap to Heather's face.
A loud smack echoed as Heather was sent flying nearly 20 feet away.
"How dare you hurt my daughter? I will make sure you die without a burial!" Martin
roared in fury as he charged toward Sebastian.
"The city lord himself is stepping in!
This kid is done for," the Knott Estate people exclaimed excitedly, as seeing a divine grandmaster take action was a rare sight. s
Sebastian smirked with disdain, ready to retaliate when Hendrick suddenly stepped in, positioning himself in front of Sebastian.Chapter 655
Although he was a grandmaster, Brork was nothing more than an ant in the face of a divine grandmaster like Martin.
Since he had come with Sebastian, he knew that once Martin killed Sebastian, he wouldn't be spared either.
Brork desperately wanted to flee, but Knott Estate's guards surrounded him on all sides.
"You can go ahead and try!" Hendrick stepped forward, releasing a similarly terrifying aura, one that matched Martin's intensity.
"He's a divine grandmaster! Mr. Watson is also a divine grandmaster!"
Everyone was astonished. Divine grandmasters were the most formidable beings
in the world, capable of single-handedly opposing entire armies.
However, such powerful individuals were exceedingly rare.
In all of Holton, excluding the Netherworld Sect, Martin had been the only divine grandmaster.
Now that Hendrick had also ascended to the Divine Realm, it was no wonder everyone was so shocked.
"You actually broke through to the Divine Realm!" Martin exclaimed, clearly surprised.
Hendrick smiled and said, "Indeed, not only did I fully recover from my injuries, but I also broke through the bottleneck and entered the Divine Realm. Do you still think I can't protect Mr. Wilder now?"
Martin's expression turned cold. "Mr. Watson, even though you've entered the Divine Realm, you've only just broken through. You're no match for me, so I suggest you think it over carefully."
Hendrick snorted. "There's nothing to consider. I won't allow anyone to harm Mr. Wilder."
"Then, you've brought this upon yourself. Don't blame me for being ruthless," Martin growled before launching a punch at Hendrick.
Hendrick quickly countered with a punch of his own.
A deafening explosion echoed as a terrifying force erupted from the clash of their fists. The shockwave hit those nearby, stinging their faces and sending them scrambling back in fear and astonishment. s
At the same time, Hendrick was forced back a few steps by the powerful energy, while Martin only wavered slightly, clearly demonstrating who was stronger.
This outcome was inevitable, given that Martin had entered the Divine Realm long ago, while Hendrick had just recently broken through. It certainly left a significant gap, between them. s
Vol
Martin snorted and pressed his advantage, throwing punch after punch, leaving Hendrick with no chance to counter. Martin then. seized an opportunity and struck Hendrick squarely in the chest, sending him flying with a terrifying force. s
Hendrick immediately spat out a mouthful of blood mid-air.
"Father!" Abigail cried out in shock, rushing forward to support him.
Martin smirked with satisfaction. "I told you before that you're no match for me, but you wouldn't listen!"
Hendrick wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and said coldly, "Even if I'm not your match, if you insist on killing Mr. Wilder, I will fight to the death!"
"Mr. Watson, sacrificing yourself is pointless. I won't stop you if you leave right now, but that kid is doomed." Martin sneered, then turned to Sebastian.
"Brat, now I see why you dared to make trouble at KChapter 656
Upon hearing this, Martin smirked mockingly. "I really don't know where you get your confidence from, brat. You're at death's door, yet you still talk tough!"
Heather approached, her eyes filled with fury as she glared at Sebastian.
She spat venomously, "No one has ever laid a hand on me since I was a child. You're the first. I will make you wish for death over life! As for your wife and godmother, I'll ensure that they suffer fates worse than death too!"
The moment she finished speaking, a terrifying killing intent erupted from Sebastian, causing the surrounding temperature to plummet. Everyone present felt a chill of fear run down their spines.
Almost instantly, Sebastian moved aside.
His figure blurred like a ghost. In the blink of an eye, he was in front of Heather, gripping her neck tightly.
Heather's face instantly turned pale with fright; she never expected Sebastian's strength to be so terrifying. What confused her even more was that she had cast a forbidden technique on Sebastian, which should have killed him, but he remained completely unscathed.
"Let go of Heather, or I'll ensure you die a brutal death!" Martin shouted, both shocked and furious. He was startled by Sebastian's power, especially his incredible speed.
Still, he remained confident that he could easily subdue Sebastian. After all, no matter how talented Sebastian was, he was still young-his strength couldn't possibly be that formidable.
Sebastian could be a grandmaster at most. As a divine grandmaster himself, that was merely a slightly stronger ant.
Sebastian's eyes gleamed with a cold light as he stared at Heather and said icily, "You have some nerve, Heather, threatening me with my wife and godmother!"
As she was both frightened and enraged, Heather tried to maintain her composure as she said, "Let me go now, or my father will tear you to pieces!"
"Your father is nothing but an ant in my eyes! He's not even worth fearing!" Sebastian scoffed.
"Damn, this guy is way too arrogant! He actually dared to call Mr. Knott an ant. He has no idea what he's up against!"
"Exactly! The divine grandmaster is one of the most powerful beingsan existence, and he dares to call a divine grandmaster an ant? What a joke! Knott Estate's people sneered, mocking Sebastian. s
Even Hendrick and Abigail thought Sebastian was being too arrogant. It was fine
to boast, but there needed to be a limit; otherwise, it would just make him a laughingstock.
Martin laughed angrily, "You brat, if you think I'm just an ant, then let Heather go and face me in a duel. Let's see what you're really made of."
"As you wish!" Sebastian responded. He continued to grab Heather by the neck
and throw her over 30 feet away. She landed heavily on the ground, coughing up a mouthful of blood.
Heather was furious, nearly
exploding with rage. She struggled to her feet and shouted, "Father, don't just kill him outright! I want to torture him slowly for days. Only then will be satisfied!" s
Martin glared at Sebastian and said coldly, "You heard Heather. I'll first cripple your cultivation, then break your limbs. After that, Heather can take her time tormenting you to death!" s
Sebastian stood with his hands behind his back, his face full of disdain. "You're just an ant, yet you dare to boast in front of me. How ridiculous."
"Then, I'll show you the strength of this ant!" Martin roared, charging at Sebastian with incredible speed.Chapter 657
Martin was shocked and horrified. It felt as though his punch had struck an indestructible metal, making his fist go numb. He tried to retreat upon realizing something was terribly wrong,, but it was already too late.
Suddenly, a terrifying surge of energy erupted from Sebastian. With a deafening sound, the energy blasted Martin away.
He immediately spewed a mouthful of blood mid-air as his eyes filled with disbelief and fear.
What!
Everyone was stunned, unable to believe what they were seeing.
Martin was a divine grandmaster; he had punched Sebastian, but Sebastian was unharmed and instead sent Martin flying. The sheer strength was just astounding.
"What incredible power! I knew Mr. Wilder was a genius at pill refinement, but I never imagined his combat prowess would be so profound!" Hendrick exclaimed in awe.
Abigail was in awe, and her eyes sparkled as she watched, momentarily entranced.
Heather, however, was paralyzed with fear. She never expected that her father, whom she had believed to be nearly invincible, would be so easily overpowered by Sebastian. His strength terrified her.
"This can't be happening! How is it possible? You're so young, how can your strength be this overwhelming?" Martin gasped, struggling to comprehend the situation. His eyes were filled with terror as he stared at Sebastian. "Who the hell are you?"
Sebastian sneered. "Who I am is of no consequence to you. All you need to know is that you are nothing but ants in my eyes, something easily crushed at my whim!"
If he had said this earlier, everyone would have thought he was boasting. But now, not a single person doubted his words.
Martin, the divine grandmaster, couldn't even withstand a single move from Sebastian. To the rest of them, they weren't even worthy of being called cannon fodder.
Sebastian then turned his gaze toward Heather, who instantly paled. Terror was evident on her face.
"Sebastian, what are you planning to do?" Heather stammered, trying to sound defiant. "I'm warning you. I'm an apprentice of the Netherworld Sect. My mentor is Bertha Erikson! If you dare to touch me, she will hunt you down and kill you!"
Sebastian sneered at her words. With a flick of his wrist, Heather was unable to resist and was suddenly pulled toward him.
Everyone present was stunned. They knew that a divine grandmaster could manipulate objects from a distance, but usually no further than 10 feet and not with heavy objects. However,
Heather was over 15 feet away, and Sebastian still managed to pull her toward him effortlessly. This display of power was far beyond their comprehension.
Sebastian grabbed Heather by the neck once more.
"What are you doing, Sebastian?" Heather asked, both angry and terrified. Her eyes betrayed her fear.
With a loud smack, Sebastian slapped her hard across the face and sneered. "What can you do now that I've laid a hand on you?"
Heather was both furious and panicked. "My mentor will never let you get away with this!" she yelled.
Sebastian gave a mocking smile. "I thought you had some brains, but it seems that you're incredibly foolish."
"What do you mean by that?" Heather asked while bristling with anger. Sebastian's cold laugh echoed. "Even now, you don't understand what kind of being you've provoked. You keep threatening me with your mentor-how stupid can you be?
"Let me make it clear for you. Even if your mentor Bertha were here, she wouldn't be able to save you because, in my eyes, she's nothing more than an ant."
"You're delusional! My mentor is one of the Grand Elders of the Netherworld Sect! She has unfathomable power andChapter 658
Heather had pleaded for help from her mentor, Bertha, while Sebastian stood there waiting.
He already knew by now that Fressia hadn't been captured. With her level of skill, ordinary people wouldn't pose a threat to her even with her memory loss. So now he had no reason to worry about anything.
Today, he was determined to make this father-daughter duo taste despair, bit by bit.
Hendrick approached Sebastian and whispered, "Mr. Wilder, the Netherworld Sect is full of experts. They have five divine grandmasters, and Tyler's power is beyond comprehension. Are you confident you can handle them?"
"They're just ants," Sebastian replied dismissively.
"Just don't underestimate them, Mr. Wilder," Hendrick cautioned.
Sebastian remained unfazed. It wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence rooted in his strength.
The Netherworld Sect wasn't far from Knott Estate. With the speed of carrier pigeons and their giant birds that people could ride, they should have arrived within an hour.
Yet, two hours had passed, and still no sign of them.
"It seems your mentor won't be coming," Sebastian remarked.
Fear filled Heather's eyes. "Sebastian, you can't kill me. I'm the Netherworld Sect's once-in-a-millennium genius apprentice. If you kill me, the Sect will never let you go."
Sebastian responded calmly, "If I were afraid, I wouldn't have let you call for help, nor would I be standing here waiting.
"If the Netherworld Sect doesn't come after me, fine. But if they do, I'll just wipe them out."
He spoke of destroying a powerful sect as casually as if he were talking about slaughtering a chicken.
Everyone around was stunned-what kind of confidence was this? How strong did one have to be to have such unwavering self-assurance?
If they had heard him before, they would have dismissed it as bluster, and not even credible bluster at that.
However, they had just witnessed him severely injured Martin in a single move-it was terrifying.
"Heather, do you have any last words before you die?" Sebastian asked.
Heather was trembling so much that her legs gave out. She fell to her knees before Sebastian. "Sebastian, please don't kill me. For the sake of the one night we shared as husband and wife, spare my life. I'm still so young. I don't want to
die."
Sebastian let out a cold chuckle. "You still dare to mention our one night together? You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then tossed me off a cliff ff thadn't been lucky, I wouldn't be standing here now." s
Heather pleaded, "I'm just still too young and made a terrible mistake in a moment of weakness. I truly know I was wrong now. Please give me a chance to change. I'll devote myself to you and serve you well as your woman." s
Sebastian sneered. "You should've gone into acting with those skills. Let's set the fact that you harmed me aside for now.
"You also sent people after my godmother, had her beaten severely, and even tried to humiliate my wife. Such malice-how could I ever forgive you?"
"That wasn't my doing! It was Sean acting on his own!
"He was driven by lust. It had nothing to do with me," Heather quickly tried to distance herself from the blame.
Martin chimed in, "She's right, I can vouch for her. When it all happened, Heather was at the Netherworld Sect. She didn't know anything about it."
"Sean deserved to die, but I don't believe he acted alone. If it wasn't her, then it must've been you." Sebastian turned his gaze te Martin, his eyes full of killing
intent.
belongs to s
Feeling a wave of fear, Martin quickly denied, "It wasn't me! I had nothing to do with it."
"Hmph!" Sebastian scoffed. "Well, it's definitely either one of you. So, you can choose who will die."
"Are you trying to turn us against each other? How vicious!" Martin shouted angrily.
The onlookers silently agreed, thinking that forcing them to choose would be more
cruel than simply killing them both.
After all, the survivor would live with the guilt forever.
"Enough talk. I'm giving you one minute to decide. IfChapter 659
"Father." Heather's eyes were full of fear and helplessness.
Martin was at a loss for words. He didn't want to die, but he also couldn't bear to lose his daughter.
"Sebastian, maybe we can negotiate. Let us go, and just name your price- anything you want."
Sebastian thought for a moment and said, "Alright. I'll give you a chance. I want one million gold coins!"
"What? One million gold coins? Why don't you just rob a bank?" Martin nearly jumped up in anger.
Just ten thousand gold coins were enough for someone to live comfortably for a lifetime. One million gold coins was a huge sum even for him.
Sebastian sneered. "If you're unwilling to pay one million, that's fine. I can just kill your daughter, and you won't have to pay for anything."
"Fine. I'll pay!" Martin gritted his teeth, feeling as if his heart was bleeding.
Due to the large amount of gold, Sebastian only asked for gold notes.
Not long after, Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100 thousand gold coins.
Sebastian kept his word and left after receiving the notes.
He hadn't intended to kill Martin and Heather-not because he was merciful, but because he wanted to take his time to destroy them.
After leaving Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton Chamber of Commerce.
"Mr. Watson, I'd like to ask you for a favor," Sebastian said.
Hendrick quickly replied, "Mr. Wilder, there's no need to be so formal. Just tell me what you need."
Hendrick's respect for Sebastian had grown even deeper. Sebastian not only healed his wounds, which saved his life, but also helped him break through his cultivation bottleneck.
It was a debt that Hendrick considered a second chance at life.
Moreover, Sebastian was at least a second grade alchemist, with immeasurable strength to boot. Such a person was worth cultivating a good relationship with.
"I need your help to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then drew an image of Fressia.
Although Sebastian wasn't a professional artist, his drawing was remarkably lifelike.
"Mr. Wilder, is the woman in the picture your wife?" Abigail asked.
"Yes," Sebastian nodded.
A trace of disappointment flashed in Abigail's eyes. It was hard not to admire a man as exceptional as Sebastian.
Abigail had always been confident in herself, but after seeing the portrait, her confidence wavered-the
woman in the drawing g
easily matching her own beauty. s
Sebastian then explained the circumstances and timing of Fressia's disappearance.
"Don't worry, Mr. Wilder. I'll send people to find her immediately. I'm sure we'll have news soon," Hendrick assured him with conviction.
Then, Sebastian stayed at the chamber, waiting for updates. He also asked
Hendrick to arrange for some people to take care of Jenna.
Additionally, he assigned Brork to protect her in secret.
Having witnessed Sebastian's terrifying power first hand, Brork didn't dare to utter
a single word of refusal. He was completely subdued, with no thoughts of escaping.
Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.
"Father, I just can't swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter 660
Martin looked at Heather and asked, "Are you willing to marry the Stonebrook's heir?"
Heather replied without hesitation, "Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of course I'm willing."
"Alright then. We'll settle this marriage today and then ask the Stonebrook family to deal with that little bastard!" Martin said coldly.
The father and daughter then stepped out to greet their guests.
Meanwhile, the Stonebrook family had arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance of betrothal gifts.
Leading them was a dignified middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses of the southern region.
Beside him was a young man of about 26 years old. Though his appearance was average, he had an impressive presence; this was Camden Stonebrook, the heir to the Stonebrook family.
"Mr. Denzel, Mr. Camden, your arrival truly graces our humble Knott Estate," Martin said with a flattering smile.
Denzel smiled slightly and said, "Mr. Knott, you're too kind. Please forgive our unannounced visit."
"No need for that; it's our honor. Please, come in." Martin led the father and son into the sitting room and had them seated.
Denzel got straight to the point, saying, "I've long heard that your daughter is as beautiful as a goddess, and today I see the reputation is well-deserved."
"Thank you for the compliment, Mr. Stonebrook." Heather appeared slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left her, like they were practically glued to her every move.
Denzel quickly reprimanded, "Camden, it's impolite to keep staring at Ms. Knott. Apologize immediately."
Camden snapped out of his daze and quickly stood up, saying, "I'm sorry, Ms. Knott, I was being rude."
Heather showed him a bashful smile. She was not angry at all. In fact, she felt quite pleased inside.
The Stonebrook family was one of the southern region's four major families. If Heather could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would be like a shortcut to soar to higher places.
With access to the Stonebrook family's cultivation resources, her strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only a matter of time before she surpassed Kaitlyn.
She might even secure a place among the four great ladies in the future.
Denzel smiled a
and said, "My son saw
Ms. Knott once not long ago, and it
was love at first sight for him. Since
then, he lost his appetite
his appetite and many.
nights of sleep over her. As his father, I became anxious, soove brought him here to propose."
Cóntent
After Denzel was done speaking, he clapped his hands, and the servants immediately opened the boxes.
The first three boxes were filled with gleaming gold coins. They were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs, a box of antique paintings, a box of aged wine, and a box of pills.
The pill box, though smaller, contained dozens of bottles.
"The Stonebrook family's betrothal gifts include 880 thousand gold coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a box of premium medicinal herbs, some antiques..."
One had to admit, the Stonebrook family had truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880 thousand, which was Chapter 661
Due to their rarity, even internal consumption was not enough, making them extremely scarce in the market. When Martin and Heather heard about the Purification Pills, their eyes lit up with excitement.
Purification Pills could cleanse the body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and greatly enhance a warrior's physique.
When consumed by warriors, these pills significantly improved their constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even helped them break through bottlenecks.
Denzel said proudly, "Mr. Knott, are you satisfied with the Stonebrook family's betrothal gifts?"
"I'm very satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin quickly replied.
"So, does that mean you agree to their marriage?" Denzel asked.
Martin responded, "Of course. Mr. Camden is a remarkable man. For him to be interested in my daughter is an honor for us. How could we possibly disagree?"
Heather was feeling shy, but she was overjoyed inside. With the future title of daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family, who would dare disrespect her?
Both parties quickly settled on the wedding date, setting it for a year later. Martin then mentioned Sebastian to Denzel.
"Mr. Stonebrook, we've recently provoked someone whose strength is formidable and who is extremely arrogant. It's infuriating."
"Oh? In the southern region, there aren't many people who could cause trouble for you. Who might this person be?" Denzel asked curiously.
Heather interjected, "It's a scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's just a lowly
commoner.
"I fell ill with a strange disease once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later, when my illness flared up, that scoundrel saved me.
powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not just to reveal how despicable he is, but also to
mind, we can call off the engagement,
flash of cold light crossed Camden's eyes. "I heard about this incident too, but I didn't
worry, Heather. I don't mind. It wasn't your
thank you for understanding," Heather forced
part of her clever strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked.
bringing it up herself, she hoped to
I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but a beast.
as we got engaged, he demanded that I
that kind of woman and naturally refused him. He then tried
"Heather, don't
very strong. Even my father couldn't
be under 30 years old. How could he be stronger than Mr.
their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and pills that extend
may look like he's in his 20s,
agreement. "That's right. That brat's cultivation is at least at the early pinnacle stage of diving grandmaster, strongerthan the eight great
age is definitely
he just an early-stage divine grandmaster? That's nothingChapter
of Heather and Camden's engagement spread quickly,
of the Stonebrook family, one of the four major families of the southern region, Camden would typically only marry into one of the other
decent status as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it was still far from matching the prestige of the four
it didn't seem that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the daughters of the four great families, her
remarkable. The Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level
with boundless
talent compensated for her comparatively modest
women felt envious and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the Stonebrook
who secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with
beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything
Martin, Sebastian invested in a
the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by stealth or force-and then return
now to boost the cultivation of those
was an exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One
Wilder, Heather and Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've sent over an invitation,"
invitations? One of them is for me, I assume?" Sebastian
nodded. "Yes, you're
was nothing more than an attempt to use the Stonebrook
Wilder, are you
I don't go, wouldn't I be letting them down?" Sebastian
said, "Mr. Wilder, I think it's best if you don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their invitation
walking right into
a bunch of petty clowns. There's nothing
know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has many powerful figures. If you go you're bound to
Hendrick warned.
to .net
unmoved. "I appreciate your concern,
They're not worth worrying
If they
ie
the four major families in the southern region,
listen to us and
for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even if
better to confront them sooner rather than
group approached the entrance of Knott
gown, with a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was Kaitlyn, the distinguished lady of
you need from me?" Sebastian asked. "Are
Sebastian nodded.
you at the banquet. Going there now is
been waiting here just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with a
into you and thought I'd give
so much about me. Could it be that you've fallen for me?"
Kaitlyn scoffed and turned to
Ms. Gardner says so, then it's
hope as long as you're alive. With your talent, you're destined to
up. No more
to
was festive and filled with
the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending Korbin and
of the main figures of the day, Heather was overjoyed. After all, by the end of today, she would be the future daughter-in-law
his face was beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning and neredibly talented was something that would
seen and
Sebastian.
been keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and
moment, "Mr. Camden,
down all the exits once he enters. Make sure
won't be able to get away, even if he sprouts wings," the
satisfaction. "By the way,
into some issues and likely won't make it today. But with
nodded again
Sebastian and his companions
exclaimed in surprise when he spotted
was also taken aback. She had already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still showed up. Was he walking into his own demise?Chapter
guts
place isn't exactly a dragon's lair. Why
coldly. "Stop playing dumb. Since you've come today, don't expect to leave here
today next year will be your death
you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out your own eyes,
invited me to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate you, so I'm
invited you
because he came to congratulate the couple,
would never let him live. I can't tell if this
to hurl insults. Among all the people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done to her,
"Today is your engagement
cultivators don't care about such things. If you want to live
his smile was full of
grew furious. "What are you laughing at, you
and said, "Mr. Camden, I really don't get it. There are so many good women out there. Why on earth
woman? You've got
lost it. This guy
to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now he's probably wishing for death to be an
Everyone nodded in agreement.
Stonebrooks' third elder, Trey Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking ready to strike Sebastian
Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth. You don't know how
practicing an
cultivation technique, one that
male energy to
One day, shevited me
her room, and tried to seduce
"Shut up!"
pale and quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting
added, "Mr. Camden, he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You can't
"Of course, I don't believe him. This guy has slandered my woman-this is unforgivable!Chapter
do you
replied, "Why don't you let me finish what I was saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me, but I wasn't interested in her at
upset that I broke off the engagement with him,
held her hand and said, "Don't worry. No matter what he says, I
evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me off a
woman right
you can have
"Camden, don't listen to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves
chimed in, "Camden, this guy has ulterior motives. Don't
long moment, and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he wondered, "Could
and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or not, he
to verify everything as soon
a powerful aura that felt as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making
the aura alone is enough to make
felt apprehensive. While they were also divine grandmasters, there were
whereas Septimus was a middle-stage divine grandmaster,
and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're a fool Youre allowing
angrily. Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep talking. Heather is nothing
way, I left a few scratch marks on
truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed by
However, Heather's reaction
leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing
tricked, Heather was
I'll cut out your
he
family was one of the four major families of the southern region, with all their
a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His
the pressure from his released aura alone made it hard
eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could do; they were powerless to
hand reached out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered,
a resounding sound, Septimus' arm
out a pained scream and
Sebastian chased him down and grabbed Septimus
"What?"
into chaos. Everyone was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had
strength was beyond
and Kaitlyn were the most shocked. Not long ago,
a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why would
erupted in fury. "I've really underestimated you. If you
enraged, and she yelled, "Sebastian, he's from the Stonebrook family! If you
also approached Sebastian, his eyes filled with murderous
favor? I'll have him release Septimus, and in return, you spare his
from the start. Although her face was
than he
Gardner Astong asterele Monet
breaks both his
gouging out his eyes and
Gardner, I consider myself rather kind for offering this. This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone that left no room for
to Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I warn you? Why did you still
place isn't some death trap. Why shouldn't
Kaitlyn said, "I didn't realize your strength was so formidable, but
Stonebrook family
eyes and breaking your hands
"Ms. Gardner, I appreciate your
in the
know it's hard to accept,
to five miserably than to
Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but in the
understood that for a strong person, losing both eyes and hands was a fate worse than death. Rather than living worse than
the chances were slim, at
"Septimus!"
of the Stonebrook family erupted
seething with rage as he shouted,
Septimus? I won't be satisfied
cripple his cultivation for
Camden's order. He was already walking toward Sebastian,
each step forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall
a powerful aura. Trey's cultivation must be truly unfathomable. He's probably at the late-stage divine
divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability
Sebastian's cultivation is? He struck so quickly before; this is definitely going to be a fierce
Everyone nodded in agreement.
shouted, tossing a long sword to
and immediately drew it from its sheath. A sharp, clear
blade resonated through the air, unleashing
an instant, the surrounding temperature seemed to plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had
the Godslayer Blade
stated, "That's right. This is our Stonebrook family's Godslayer Blade. Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with
They hadn't expected Camden to carry the Godslayer
not even late-stage divine grandmasters
agreement. The Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier
here was Sebastian,
her eyes, unable to bear watching
who had taken her virginity, but after calming down and reflecting, her hatred
so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least
feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step
to realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't need her
trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her entire Netherworld Sect would
his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with
few miles surged violently, creating
weaker cultivation slumped to the ground
aimed to capture Sebastian alive, so his
as the blade was about to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved,
To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique
loud boom resounded as the blade made contact with Sebastian's palm. However, instead of the expected sight of blood and
"How is this possible?"
Everyone present was equally
with his bare hand! This
Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted
Sebastian said calmly. With a slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go of the s go
he was
examined the Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not bad. From now
mix of anger and
at Sebastian. "You actually dared to kill two of our
think you can
I'm the heir to
you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top
two really are made for each other," Sebastian
You're the idiot! Your whole family is!" Heather shouted angrily
"You're about to die, yet you still dare to shout at me. If that's not foolishness, I don't know
You really plan to kill us?"
as he said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not just you, but everyone
louder as he spoke. By the end, his voice was thunderous, sending shivers down
believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring his intent to
down on him and thought that he was lying. However, after witnessing Sebastian's terrifying
He remarked, "You truly are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong
to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live.
up in a grave, you won't
you dare!" Camden
was already afraid of him. He gathered all the experts from
him with disdain. He took a step forward,
the oppressive force weighed down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed to the
struggled to remain
Kill him!" Camden
with terror, they had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting
join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos to
boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent flying. Before they even hit the ground, they all died on the
crowd was very shocked. The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family
of cake. The sheer
was terrifying.
and her
moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her by the
into the air,
nervous clerk and decided
this will ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight
nodding so hard the tight bun at the
away did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like warm water, leaving
dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered a
stepped between danger and the child, the day would have ended in chaos or
unexpectedly shy. "Thank you," she murmured,
a small, practiced smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly
one thanking you," he replied,
that, Jonathan slipped a hand into the miniature pocket of his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up,
like a clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened,
over ten thousand, yet this child intended to buy the
card, uncertainty flickering across her
scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel gave a single, calm nod. "Wrap
did not understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of
expression. "Of course," she
sweeping the garments from velvet hangers into
showroom, the other employees watched, envy shining through their fixed
large could cover the down payment
more.
everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal Ivy's
Ivy guided Nathaniel
toward the register, she leaned down, voice barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we
over eight million." s
Elodie hadn't asked her, Ivy would never have taken a job at a
said, firm as bedrock.
When he offered no objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card
approval tone chimed, she stared at the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy,
you for choosing us." Ivy presented the card with both hands, as though
Ivy, I truly appreciate everything you
finally set the
flourish worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer
"Pass it on to whatever gentleman
across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's
apairof
in silence until now, spoke in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you ever hit a rough patch, come to
the bill, Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast briefing about the
with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and ribbon-tied shopping bags that bumped
cast a downward glance at Jonathan, who still wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh,
wanted me to pop in and pick out a few outfits
Kennedy, and Mom's
expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts you," he
buy clothes for
darkened like a
He reached out, hooked his tiny pinkie around Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty sure that one was meant
had believed the first fib, it
Nathaniel, Jonathan appeared more like an
She would never delegate
"You've figured
Jonathan blinked, performing innocent
breath. “When it comes to social-grade lying, you're
to be exposed so fast, and the realization sent a tremor of startled
exhaled a theatrical sigh. “Are you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes could
his shoulders back and forced a civil smile. "Why would I be?" he countered, voice calm yet
none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally direct
mouth opened, then snapped shut.Am I
“And exactly where did you pick up
printed across your face, Dad.” Jon
a child could read him, how had
uneasy when the restroom door stayed shut far too long. Taking
hard, she went searching
belongs to s
she almost collided with Jonathan and
trailing behind them, arms loaded with shopping bags bulging
And what
intent on inspecting the loot, but
gifts,” he said smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing
clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching the hole as
well, a heads-up would have been nice. I was starting to
bewildered. When have I
Jonathan a pointed
himself to carrying the constipation story
guess I've been skimping on water
concern flooded her eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and
all right?
nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a
rush to his cheeks
never imagining the confession would buy him this
Cecilia had hugged him like
Mommy, really. I'll be fine if I drink more water. It isn't
child, obedient,
to yield. "That won't do. Maybe we
the way surgeons announce a
daddy. Of all lies you could invent, you
Mommy, I don't need them,” he whispered, the words nearly swallowed by the flush covering his
eyes soft with pity for the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess he
word, Cecilia opened her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's
home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the small
sure how to
the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like a stone in his
Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his head so hard his hair
I can manage on my
anything." She ruffled his hair, every
forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If it lasted,
with you," she said, voice low and gentle,
"Okay."
contraband and bolted down the hallway
Elliot lounged with a plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why, felt
really constipated? He sure doesn't
warning stare. "Don't tease your brother. He's having
pressed a small hand against his chest, trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of pitiful," he
exaggerated burst of cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on," she said, "let's try the outfits we just bought today,
have to take tons of super-cool
in bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back
the little photoshoot ended, she pinged
Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the sorrow
snippets of her life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug,
in return, video-called often to check on the
little, life seemed to
able to come back for a
so her priorities
flew across the keyboard. "Nathaniel and I have decided. We'll come right after the
as soon as you can. Your grandpa and I will prepare every one of
good while longer, then
the final outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their
Cecilia and Nathaniel amid
eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five minutes of calm when
"Ceci."
surprise. "What is
this all we're doing today?"
don't follow. What do you mean?" Confusion
Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing," he
plainly on his face. Cecilia finally read the room. Something inside Nathaniel was
lifted her face to his, worry eclipsing her earlier cheer. "What's the matter?
scent of cedar from his
she could speak
long arms
swift, possessive motion,
chest, as though staking a claim no
really have to
rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every
breath fanned over her cheek. Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened as she tried to
go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees this, it'll be
her hair
holding each other? They're not babies
eyes, she muttered, "Not babies? They're only
my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low,
amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left the country
eyes. "Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build some resilience. It'll give us more space for, well,
Besides, Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still
།
team to watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let him stay with Old
his finger brushing her burning cheek. “You're
"Hmm?"
you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like
it click. Her proud, composed husband was jealous
"Of course, the kids outrank you. I risked my
a storm gathering
bolted down the hallway,
blinked, stunned that she would dare make a break for it, then sprang up and covered
hand against the panel, his voice low and teasing. "Why lock me
pushing harder on the door. "There are plenty of spare rooms in this house. Pick any one of
for his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her up again, and kicked the door
latch clicked, the deadbolt turned,
the windows, but inside,
glare slicing through the curtains and
face less than an inch away. She could count the fine stubble dusting
her trace a finger over that faint roughness, then
Nathaniel's brows twitched.
open, hazy with
murmured, drawing her even closer until her
I can't breathe.” Her voice came out in a whisper, pressed tight between
fraction, closed his eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just a little longer." "It's already nine. We really have
her best friends a full day
mumbled, "Give me
be,
when were you this attached?
mouth. "I was younger. Didn't
his hair, dark strands springing up beneath
get moving. I have a busy day ahead," she said, trying to slip from
caught her hand again. "Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends, that's all, right? No
head. "That's it.
buying?” he asked, still unwilling to release
and something nice for Grandpa
note of suspicion
"Nope."
head. He had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this
darkened by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat. “Fine. Go on,
He just hates it when I leave too quickly. With that familiar assumption, she let the
bedroom felt even smaller once the door clicked shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like a weight on his ribs
quiet hallways, and stepped onto
1.
and Elliot off to
you're an idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with
a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane
idiot with half a brain for daring to ask for collaboration. Thought
pale, then burned red. He spun toward the Baroness. “I—I didn't
darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her so-called pride, had done
all people, it was Alex-the outcast, the
to Sofina. She'd never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the old woman's heart
least this one had
of you!
The room fell silent.
stood. "Don't worry, Grandma," she said. "I'll do
crossed his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin that made her
on, Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag the rest
worth a thousand of you. She's fighting to lift this family up, while you
Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think
"I think the Wolfsbane family is great enough that even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's dream—and I believe in my wife's intelligence and
your real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your
what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make
coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up as wisdom. And you know
eyes flashed. "Me? Envious?" she snapped. "You're a fool if you think any
"Fine. You think I'm scared? Name your terms, Alex the
If Sofina pulls this off,
Sofina fails, I want
a half-smile. "Then let's see who
in too! If I win, I
gaze on her, raising a brow. "Alright. But what happens
chin lifted. "I won't lose. But fine-I'll play
"Since you love calling me a half-slave, how about this—if you lose, you kneel
out laughing. "Ha! You're really digging your own grave, loser! Fine-I'll take
"If you lose, I
win,
think you can win this? I've already recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's official now. You'll have to
he said. "I like it when
glance at them. She couldn't
to her was one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could actually secure
of this nonsense." She roared. "Sofina, you have three days to negotiate and close the deal. That's all.
way home, Sofina frowned, glancing out the window.
smirked. "Trust?
"That's supposed to make me
comfort, talk to someone who hasn't met this family." Sofina rolled
at least I bet on your victory. Isn't that
really think this bet
who's got guts and who's got
her arms. "And what
finally fit right in with
file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind was sharp. Today
the sleek black luxury car they'd won from Nikolaus-a machine so rare
glide across the car's polished hood, “we should return this car. It's too extravagant for us. Everyone's going
"Maybe it's
the future deputy of the Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare buy you one, so let's
can."
him. "You really
away from the road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll have a
half anxious, half amused. "I
"You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina.
as the car descended toward the Eden Group's towering headquarters,
Sofina whispered as the car touched
said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener of the Eden Group. That
QUMS
couldn't help but laugh. For a moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could
and felt something empty out inside her-like a room with the furniture
god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old, fractured, scandal-scarred—could sit at that
to partner with them was like a beggar asking a banker to lend him
She'd accepted the challenge in front of the
courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from
their voices low but tense, each waiting for their turn to
Group. The sight said
all every one
of them was hono
the same thing: a
on earth are you doing here?" a
and found Heinrich standing with Katarina
Katarina's lips tightened the way a judge's did
sentence.
how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward and grabbed Sofina's wrist in a rough. "You're here to attract attention," he hissed. "I told you I won't give you any. Leave this place."
fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group. You're
when a security drone glided into the room,
by a guest-he forced her out
me the
recording. Heinrich's hand clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging her down
on his gloves, and strode out
the floor, gathering a pile of scattered papers.
quietly, helping her pick them up. "What
matter what I say, he just slips back
asked, gently lifting
nothing serious,"
you don't need to print everything. The digital files
"Maybe. But I like the feel of
chest. "The same way I like touching
"You
that," she said softly. "You cooked for me, you looked at me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes
other as they walked back
voice
you doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I don't want you near me, you
The color drained
that
overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if waiting for
himself
"You're a guest. You have no authority to order
expect to be treated like a king.
laugh. "Keep dreaming. You're not a king- you're just another arrogant fool. A pathetic
I am? I'm Heinrich Schiller." Heinrich's face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener. When I'm finished, you'll
his arm. "Let's go. Don't give him anything. He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a nearby figure. "Manager
while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you joined our efforts-Winchester's finest in Al
in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out.
smile didn't falter; his tone tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you, tell
"That's the man. Your gardener. He insulted me and
"I've never seen you before. Are you pretending to be one of our
building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here.
closer. "You seem to forget
I can fire you anytime I
and beg for his
"Why should I? He's the one who tried to throw out
idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one of
not
nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I make sure
said calmly, shaking his
be fired if you
chuckled darkly. "Come on, Alex. We've known each other a long time. Just kneel and bow three times, and maybe I'll let you
laugh was low and dangerous. "How about this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three
by the rising tension. Laughter rippled through them like
stand up to Heinrich? The
voice joined in. "That gardener's got a name.
"Who?" someone asked.
"Alex-the dunce himself."
chuckled. "Oh hell, that Alex? The walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing off. He's
and turned
my attention, haven't you? Well,
who doesn't know his
and
hand tightened around Alex's arm,
I'll make sure everyone in Winchester hears about this.
have the
name you'll be nothing outcasts. And you know I
s
forward, but Sofina grabbed him
steady. "Let me handle
her face. She met
Sofina stepped
hit me, bitch-" He spat the word
curse.
God's name do you think
Mister Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her, give her twenty
hustled Heinrich upright, supporting him with a hand at the small
called security. Twenty lashes. She won't be standing
said, every syllable a
cancel that order," he said. "Someone's going
one who'll get
bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish
head. "I warned
crowd began
hit Heinrich,"
Heinrich's the
her!" another
unit glided forward and ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses
system flagged a threat to her, an alert raced through
room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina had left at home, came
wired her into his network bridge so she could talk to every Eden
node. Any device that touched
the network. "Override the previous
robot optical sensors swung
The shock hit him like
it, security robot drew an electric whip from a holster and
of blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop! Not me - her! You're whipping
noise tilting from triumph to alarm. "Is the Eden security unit malfunctioning?"
tech is already the most advanced," someone muttered, half in awe, half in
of confusion moved through the
robot didn't stop until Dietrich
him to his feet and kicked him out, shoving him past the main
catch up with the chaos
wiped the blood
low and venomous. "I'll teach you a
her, his hand swinging
the first time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over and
endured it, not because she was weak, but because she'd once mistaken her submission
closed on Heinrich and seized his arm. "Find someone your own size," he said, low
go
under a hard lid. The government cameras watched from
Heinrich screamed like
his knees, clutching at a hand that felt as if
go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on
the Eden Group meeting room like a storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the marble floor with sharp precision, aides trailing behind her
-
offer - a bid to replace the Krugers, who'd been kicked out of
favor, to become the next
they were
the same breath she'd promised Eden that Heinrich would cooperate if the contract
emerged into the main hall, the polished calm of her diplomacy shattered. What
was holding Heinrich down, and Heinrich bled and
with fury. She stormed over and slapped Alex hard. "You
this instant. How dare you strike him until he bleeds-I'll call
released Heinrich's arm. "Calling the police won't help you," he said coolly. "I didn't hit
that true?"
was Sofina. She hit my
and held herself steady. "So what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if
Prussia, nobles still carried real power. The law
punishment could be death.
noble, the penalties were severe and swift. More often than not, the blame settled on
law protected rank, not
noble struck a commoner, most people just
power didn't need to
her sharp
Well, you've got it.
divorce her. Go
have to
for your Sant Claire family. When im
stared at her, disbelief hardening his face.
you? That everyone just spins
talk to me like that, Alex!" Katarina snapped. "It's already a blessing that I'm even willing to marry you. How dare you disobey me! I command you divorce that woman and come back to me. You've
with her was long gone. Just the sound of her voice gave him a headache. He took Sofina's hand and turned to
from me!" Katarina shouted. "Kneel! Now!" Katarina's voice cracked with fury and desperation. She had lost him once,
she wouldn't admit
him.
she despised him now, the memories still haunted her - the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded
was cold
had been dreading this moment. He didn't want to face Katarina—not here,
take another
turned and found her staring at him, fierce and cold, while
told you to stop, Alex,"
my temper." She stepped closer. "Remember when I made you kneel in the rain for three days and nights? You think I won't do it again? Don't test
I don't owe you a damn thing.
hissed, and her hand whipped across his face. The
trembled — a flash of tears she fought to hide, gripping
command
bitch!"
of Alex without hesitation. Her eyes were quiet, but they held frost. "I
on Alex. Sofina caught it in one swift move and
ex- don't
to obedience. She had been treated like royalty, and
the whispers
the Rosenheim title was
that they earned their barony by stabbing their own marquis,
empire was built on treachery, that beneath their silks and titles they were nothing more than well-fed
this bitch!" Katarina shouted to the room, her voice shaking with fury. "She's spitting
and some Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They
hand, a silver Eden security robot glided between them, its
property,"
Electricity flashed. The would-be attackers jerked, their muscles seized,
security unit repeated. "Please remain
for
Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.
of here," she
a whip. "You always talked about love! You said you loved me! You swore
rose, trembling with rage. “You promised to obey me, to give me your body, to destroy yourself for me! You liar! You damn bastard!
hides behind forced gestures-empty rituals, hollow vows, or even
another
for the collaboration. Please proceed to Meeting Room 01. I
in surprise. Alex squeezed her hand. “Go,” he said
she
can access it. These
then followed the android down the corridor. The robot stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The person in charge
poised woman in a tailored suit stepped in. "Miss Sofina?"
a change in location. Please follow me. Miss Von Adler would like to
Von Adler?
She's expecting
nodded, still dazed, and followed the woman
of Eden Group headquarters. Her thoughts
most powerful woman in Eden-want to meet her
with the Wolfsbane family. She wasn't supposed to meet the chairman, only the department manager
It didn't make sense.
She followed the assistant through the long corridor, her heels echoing off the marble floor, until they stopped in front of a taff metal
Inside, Marlena Von Adler-the legendary chairwoman of Eden Group-rose gracefully from behind her desk. Her presence filled the room like
Von Adler, chairman
standing before the most powerful businesswoman in Winchester-someone people
as she answered, but she kept her
met
discuss the collaboration proposal. I know the Wolfsbane Group isn't as large or
but we work hard.
never disappoint."
to .net
a neat folder. "This is the Wolfsbane
take a look."
and took the file. She
few pages,
already
You mean... it's
out.
She had spent
long negotiation. And yet here it
in seconds.
her expression
usual standards. But our founder hold's your very nigh regard. He personally requested this
founder?" she asked, her
"May I know who your
founder," she said softly, "is
Sofina blinked, unsure if she'd heard
"Don't worry. You'll understand when the
believes in you. And that's
Alex had instructed
to your proposal, your initial quotation
straightened, nervous. "Yes, that's right," she said, her voice
no," she said easily. "In fact, it's less than what we
slightly. "What do
increase the contract value," Marlena said
set at
her breath catching. "One...
repeated, barely believing it.
opened a folder, retrieved a crisp contract, and slid it across the polished desk
million dollars in
stared at the document in disbelief. Her
most powerful corporations in
yanked out his cane and brought it down hard on Finnian's back. "I forbid you from seeing her!
again and again, each crack of the cane echoing through the room. Despite his age, Mr. Everly's arm was still strong; after just a few blows, Finnian's crisp white shirt was already stained with blood, making Lisa, who stood nearby, flinch
Mr. Everly wouldn't listen. He kept shouting, "I'll beat you to death!" and from the look in his eyes, he almost
Mr. Everly's arm, her voice
stopped, glaring at Finnian and gasping for breath, his shoulders heaving with
should go. I'll talk to
her a long, searching look, then turned
out of his mind. Can't you see? He
squeezed her hand, his heartbreak
felt anymore. Just yesterday, Finnian had confessed his feelings to her; today, he was determined to be with Liliana. Thinking back on the words he'd spoken to her before, Amara couldn't help but feel the whole thing
I've never told you, but I think you need
"What is it?"
Qu
Finnian and I would end up together. You wanted that because you thought Finnian cared about me, but the truth is our relationship has never been good. Finnian rarely shows me any respect, I would never choose
but firm. She nearly said outright
utterly
blame Amara for not wanting Finnian.
l.ne
she possibly like him? For years, it had been Mr. Everly Finself, swallowing his pride and pushing for them to
her hand wearily. "Ama, I'm tired. I need to lie down for a while. You
Grandpa. I'll
turning, unable to sleep. Was there truly no hope for Amara and Finnian? He really did care for her, and he'd always dreamed She'd
sighed deeply, no longer wanting to dwell on
room. He'd changed his shirt, and his wounds looked
Chapter 365
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him briefly before looking away,
But Finnian spoke up. "Let me
"That's not necessary-"
you," he added
was time to put things to rest between them. She nodded, walked
be real," she murmured,
grandmother, who had dreamed of a collaboration like
with such generosity. Now
had been given a
slightly as she looked up at Marlena, eyes
and awe.
you,” she whispered.
every touch a performance. He was
had been different. Quiet. Loyal. Predictable in the best way - a man who
And losing that warmth felt like standing in an
she thought bitterly. It's
silence at dinner, the ache
life out of
desperate and trembling, "Alex, I'm warning you! Kneel — and
Start kneeling, sweetheart. Maybe I'let your husband keep his job. And if you take off your clothes while you're at it, might even forgive the
moment,
Sofina smiled.
shot forward
on his nose
back, clutching his
the crowd gasped.
u are."
like this is about business. We both know why you're here. You came chasing my attention, and I've got
get out of Katarina's sight you're fucking pathetic
entrance like a
dare try to step foot in here again. I'm done with you-whatever we
over."
her backside as the folder burst open, papers scattering
you take care of
Elysia and Lucian would end up together. What mattered was that she could finally pull herself out of the pain Dorian had caused
she got back. A few days later, Liliana set the internet
by side in front of a house. Liliana's arm was looped through Finnian's, her face beaming
was the CEO-no, now the Chairman
to have you." It looked almost exactly like a
did it feel
they'd get married someday. But the Everly Group had
try to take down Liliana's post either. Their silence was approval enough-everyone understood now that Liliana and
suddenly flooded with messages, all wishing her and
the film set. The moment she walked on, people flocked around her, eager to curry favor. Some even joked about when she and
of attention like this. Maintaining her graceful smile, Liliana answered their questions one by one,
?
perfectly well that ever since word of her suicide attempt had gotten out, people whispered behind her back, saying she'd forced Finnian to stay by her side with her life on
But so what?
now. Someday, she'd be the only woman in Finnian's life. When that day came,
long before Hogan appeared. “Hey, I heard you had a rough time a few days
in the hospital after his accident, and another few days recovering at home. Now he was back on his
alright. Things were tough for a while,
to eat well and get my strength back,"
in Liliana's dressing room. He'd always gotten along well with her, and they'd even had dinner together a few times He'd always genuinely approved
Hogan had been the only member of
a master at hiding her emotions. Even if she was uncomfortable,
grace. After a few meaningless exchanges, he cut the conversation short. "I'm heading out. Let's
a moment. This was the first time Hogan hadn't called her "sis- in-law." She couldn't tell if he'd done it on purpose or
falter. "Alright, go home and get some rest. If you're not feeling well, call
then left her dressing room, his brow furrowed, thoughts tangled up
spotted Amara coming down
real face, but every time he ran into her unexpectedly,
to her, blurting out, "You know Finnian and
up. "Weren't they already together for ages?" she
correct her, but Amara cut him off. "Does it even
He frowned, frustrated.
child, they'd never actually been a couple. All that intimacy had
left between them He'd wanted to explain
the fact that Liliana had posted that tweet, despite not having a child anymore, suggested things had changed between her and Finnan.
asked what he actually wanted to know: "Nothing, really. Aren't you upset seeing them
reason he'd come
looked puzzled. "Why would I
first. But she'd already worked through those feelings. Why was
watched her face carefully. She didn't look like she was lying. His frown deepened. "You really don't have
answered without hesitation.Chapter
clench her fists, her eyes darkening with
over two weeks, and the set was a whirlwind of activity. Everyone's workload had doubled or even tripled, but no one complained. The sooner they finished, the sooner they could rest; the whole team was fueled by the finish line in
the night. This evening
in like he owned the place, flopping onto the couch and pouring himself a glass of water with
before saying, "Have you noticed? Lately, Finnian and Liliana seem to be getting even
"Weren't they always joined
Finnian's gone the extra mile for Liliana these past few days. You haven't noticed him
took better care of Liliana than I take care of you?" Amara recalled,
Didn't Liliana just have a
"True enough."
a close eye on Amara's expression, only
right—what are you planning to do about the baby?" he asked, trying to sound offhand.
mid-sip and
over her
the keys and
name down? How are you ever going to find a wife if you pull a stunt like that?"
to marry
sprawled back on the couch and drawled, "Who says I want
being single, but if I have a kid on
her
was talking nonsense-he was probably just worried about the stigma of being a single dad
walked over and rapped him on the
“I know you've always worried about me," she said, her voice light, "but there's really no need. I've got looks, I've got money, and honestly, raising my kid on my own suits me just fine. What's there to be
Keith were more like family than friends. They always found different ways to look out for her-Elysia with her warm, attentive gestures, Keith
had completely blindsided her, she could still
utterly clueless. He sighed, clearly giving up hope
her forehead. "Alright, alright, have it your way. My offer
job already." Amara gave him a shove
ten, but there was still one more scene to shoot-an important one, at that: the
camera. Keith and Liliana were already in position, standing in front of the lens while Cedric, the director, walked them through
took a step apart, and Cedric moved behind the
to call "action," Keith suddenly raised his hand to
wrong?" Cedric
expression was calm. "I think we should
fell over
kiss with clever camera work was pretty standard, but usually it was the actress who requested it. Having the
no stranger to filming kiss scenes, and in the past, she'd always been the one to request the camera trick. This time, with
something-otherwise it would only look worse. She curved her lips into a teasing smile.
Amara and covered her mouth as she laughed. "You two really are
immediately, her expression turning
but the last thing she wanted was for people to get the wrong idea about her
single sentence leaving her rooted to the spot. Sensing the awkwardness, a crew member-someone who'd been fawning over Liliana
over.
He didn't seem to care much about that sort of thing at the time. Now that he's a big star, I guess he's more particular-comes with the territory, right?" The woman let out a nervous
she quietly let
drop. With a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth, he shot back, "That's not it.
that
was Keith upending the board in front of everyone. His words landed like a slap across Liliana's
matter how composed she tried to appear, Liliana's hands balled into fists at her
ruthless. Most played it safe-after all, today's golden child could be tomorrow's nobody, and vice versa. You learned to leave people a little dignity, in case you had to work together again
dignity. Was
glance and said, "Enough. Let's get this scene over with.
attitude shifted in an instant. "Of course, Ama. Whatever you
difference in his tone when he spoke to Amara was so stark it only made Liliana
It was a little after midnight when Finnian arrived to pick
entrance, as if searching for someone but the place was deserted. He quickly
glance. Who had he
supposed to film a kissing scene, but Keith insisted on using a camera
instead And when
spell it out, but it's pretty obvious-he likes her. I think everyone can see
comment. Sensing she'd said enough, Liliana deftly steered the conversation elsewhere, though she was
old manor. He handed his coat to a maid at the door
she glanced his way, then quickly looked ahead and pretended
called out to her.
stopped in
hadn't planned to come to the Everly estate, but then she saw the text Lisa had sent her half an hour earlier: Mr. Kevin Everly hadn't had much of an
over.
door, checked with Lisa about his condition, and only felt at ease when she learned the family doctor had already been by and there was nothing serious. She was on
staying by Liliana's side from now on-Amara had felt like she and Finnian had nothing more to do with each other. She pretended not
name, and she stopped. "Is something wrong with Mr. Everly?" she
the maids nearby. They quietly filed out of
over to Amara. "What's going on between you
are you asking
you a lot about how controlling his relatives are Getting involved with someone from a family like that would be rough. I think you should stay
belongs to s
completely out of the blue. She and Keith were just
reading more into it.
Jessica's birthday party, Dorian had hosted the whole group, and Finnian had
this one more time: Keith
assumptions," Amara
if I did want to
family's opinion. You don't need to warn
"You really can't tell how he feels about
until she was pressed against
even an inch nearer, he'd have her
The grand hall lay deserted, nothing but the
stretching across polished wood. Amara felt a strange, unspoken threat coil between
skin. "He's just a friend, nothing more. I don't know why you keep insisting he
tone was unwavering, but Finnian caught her chin in his hand, forcing her to meet his
She twisted her face from his grip, shaking his hand
know why you keep misreading things between us, but I'd appreciate it if you stopped, Mr.
past him,
watched her go, his eyes fixed on her
hiding in the kitchen, quietly slip out. He replayed the
Update Chapter 492 of Clinging to Devoted Fiancé, Heiress Slays the World! by If bunny
With the author's famous Clinging to Devoted Fiancé, Heiress Slays the World! series authorName that makes readers fall in love with every word, go to chapter Chapter 492 readers Immerse yourself in love anecdotes, mixed with plot demons. Will the next chapters of the Clinging to Devoted Fiancé, Heiress Slays the World! series are available today.
Key: Clinging to Devoted Fiancé, Heiress Slays the World! Chapter 492