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.

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"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.

would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had

can call

of cold light crossed Camden's eyes. "I heard about this incident too, but

I don't mind. It

Heather forced out a couple

many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given

bringing it up herself, she hoped

protect my reputation, I agreed to marry him. But what I never expected

soon as we got engaged, he demanded that

of woman and naturally refused him. He then

of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who

scoundrel is very strong. Even my father couldn't defeat

under 30 years old.

cultivators improve their skills, their lifespans increase. There are

his 20s, but

at the early pinnacle stage of diving grandmaster, strongerthan the

age is definitely well over

scoffed. "Isn't he just an

and Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

four major families of the southern region, Camden would typically only marry into one of the

Estate, it was still far from matching the prestige of the

odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on

test showed her potential at five

a genius with boundless

beauty and talent compensated

many women felt envious and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the Stonebrook family's daughter-in-law was like ascending to the

those who secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their

paid it no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't

gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in a vast amount of herbs

find Fressia, secure the third stage of

the cultivation of those around him once he

refinement was an exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One day, after finishing his pill refinement session, Hendrick came to see

getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've sent over an invitation,"

One of them is for me, I

nodded. "Yes,

nothing more than an attempt to use the Stonebrook family's

are you planning to

wouldn't I be letting them down?" Sebastian replied

to the core and their invitation is

father is right. You

walking right into

a bunch of petty clowns. There's nothing

you shouldn't be so careless. know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has many powerful figures. If you go you're bound to be at

Hendrick warned.

to .net

unmoved. "I appreciate your

just clowns. They're not worth

alone, fine. If they

ie

the four major families in the southern region, even stronger than the

Wilder, please listen to us and

If they're out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even if I skip

to confront them

group approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman suddenly blocked their

a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was Kaitlyn, the distinguished lady of

Sebastian asked. "Are you heading to the engagement banquet?"

Sebastian nodded.

kill you at the banquet. Going there now is like walking into

here just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with a

yourself. I just happened to run into you

didn't expect you to care so much about me. Could it be that you've

scoffed and

Gardner says so, then it's surely true. Why

alive. With your talent, you're destined to become a peerless force in the future. Just bide your time," Abigail added, trying to

is made up. No more advice, please,"

to his doom. All they could probably do now

Estate, the atmosphere was festive and

a local powerhouse, the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending

one of the main figures of the day, Heather was overjoyed. After all, by the end of today, she would be

his face was beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning and neredibly talented was something that would inspire

in his side-Heather's body had already been seen and touched by Sebastian So the only way to remove that thorn was to

Sebastian.

on Sebastian's movements, and

at that moment, "Mr.

he enters. Make sure he doesn't escape," Camden ordered with a

won't be able

nodded in satisfaction. "By the way,

and likely won't make it today. But with the family's third elder

nodded again in

and

exclaimed in

She had already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's

You actually had the guts

exactly a dragon's lair. Why

Since you've come today, don't

today

give you a chance. If you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out your own eyes, and break your own hands,

engagement party. I came here to congratulate you, so I'm

out of your mind?" Camden sneered. "I invited you here just to kill you.

because he came to

let him live.

quick 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

care about such things. If you want to live

laughed and his smile was full of

furious. "What are you

laughed and said, "Mr. Camden, I really don't get it. There are so many good women out there.

my woman? You've got

lost it. This guy must be

might have had a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now he's probably wishing for

Everyone nodded in agreement.

and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking ready to strike

remained calm and unbothered. "Mr. Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth. You don't know how despicable Heather really

been practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to

day, shevited me

Estate, lured me into her

"Shut up!"

pale and quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping,

"Mr. Camden, he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You can't believe

course, I don't believe him. This guy has slandered

do you have?"

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 all, so

he's lying! He's just upset that I broke off the

and said, "Don't worry. No matter

evil cultivation technique to

woman right

time was with me. If you don't believe me, you can have her checked. If I'm lying, you can do with me as you wish," Sebastian said

to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be a joke if

this guy has

uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he

standing around and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or not, he

verify everything

immediately approached Sebastian, releasing a powerful aura that felt as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it

aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive,"

felt apprehensive. While they were also divine grandmasters, there were clear differences

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster,

had some sense in you, but you're

Camden snapped angrily. Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep talking. Heather is nothing more than

a few scratch marks on her chest because I got a bit rough.

In truth, Sebastian was just

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned. Upon

tricked, Heather

I'll cut

a fool, and he was infuriated

Stonebrook family was one of the four major families of the southern region, with all

divine grandmaster. His power was

made his move, the pressure from his released aura alone made it

eyes flashed with worry. But there was

out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered, reacting faster

resounding sound, Septimus' arm

Septimus let out a pained scream and staggered back in

Sebastian chased him down and

"What?"

A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated in a single

was beyond

Kaitlyn were the most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian had participated in the Netherworld Sect's

Sebastian was just an ordinary person, perhaps at most a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why

was initially stunned, then erupted in fury. "I've really underestimated you. If you release Septimus now,

the Stonebrook family! If you dare to kill him, you won't even

also approached Sebastian, his

do me a favor? I'll have him release

from the start. Although her face was

distance, Camden found her even more enticing than he had imagined. He

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

gouges out his own eyes, and breaks both his hands, I'll spare

"Mr. Camden, isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking his hands a

this. This is my bottom line!" Camden declared

whispered, "Didn't I warn

place isn't some death trap. Why shouldn't I come?" Sebastian

realize your strength was so formidable, but

The Stonebrook family

your hands is the best outcome I

replied, "Ms. Gardner, I appreciate your kindness,

the

hard to

miserably than to die.

say something, but in

hands was a fate worse than death. Rather than

the chances were slim, at

"Septimus!"

members of the Stonebrook family

he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how dare

I won't be satisfied until I torture you

cripple his

order. He was already walking toward Sebastian, his aura growing increasingly

his presence intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on the

Trey's cultivation must be truly unfathomable. He's probably at

at the middle pinnacle stage of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability to fight beyond his level, comparable

is? He struck so quickly before; this is definitely going to be a fierce

Everyone nodded in agreement.

sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a long sword to

drew it from its

the air, unleashing a

plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their

be the Godslayer Blade of the

the Stonebrook family proudly stated, "That's right. This is our Stonebrook family's Godslayer Blade. Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with it, they rarely

stunned. They hadn't expected Camden to carry the

Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand against Trey Defeating

a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could slice through iron

was Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

eyes, unable to bear

taken her virginity, but after calming down and reflecting, her hatred

preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted

even started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was in danger—she

strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't need her protection at

completely powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even

swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It seemed as though it would split the

surged violently, creating an oppressive

weaker cultivation slumped to the

alive, so his sword's target was Sebastian's

strike, Sebastian

filled with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with one's bare hand

the blade made contact with Sebastian's palm. However, instead of the expected sight of blood and mangled flesh, the sword stopped dead in its tracks as it was caught firmly in Sebastian's

"How is this possible?"

with shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as they were unable to believe what they

He caught the Godslayer Blade with his bare hand! This is

of Sebastian's grip. He exerted

Sebastian said calmly. With a slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly

he was jolted by

Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not bad.

a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a punch at Sebastian.Chapter

actually dared to kill two of our family's elders! Do

or be killed. If you think you can kill me, I can also

was both afraid and angry. "Sebastian, I'm warning you. I'm the heir to

"Sebastian, don't get too cocky! The Stonebrook family's power is beyond anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top experts

really are made for each other," Sebastian said

idiots? You're the idiot! Your

dare to shout at me. If that's not foolishness, I don't know

You really plan to kill us?" Heather was suddenly

family will never let you go. Not just you, but everyone you care

scoffed. "Your family might seem powerful to others, but not me. You're nothing more than clowns. If you send one person to me, I'll kill that person. If you send two, I'll kill both of them. If you send a whole army, I'll wipe them out. If

spoke. By the end, his voice was thunderous,

was stunned into silence. No one could believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring his intent

would have looked down on him and thought that he was lying. However, after witnessing Sebastian's terrifying strength, everyone was very afraid

are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong for

us alone? Hand over the Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might

"Whether or not I end up in a grave, you won't be around to see

dare!" Camden

of him. He gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as they were ready

Sebastian looked at him with disdain. He took a step forward,

the oppressive force weighed down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level

remain

him!"

filled with terror, they had no choice but

didn't join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos to

of his hand, a tremendous energy burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent flying. Before they even hit the ground, they all died

Stonebrook family

cake. The

was terrifying.

collapsed to the ground, and her

that moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her

air, attempting to escape.Chapter

to shield the nervous clerk and decided to let the matter

said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment

Elodie blurted, nodding so hard the tight

did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like warm water, leaving her almost

whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful glance first to Jonathan and then to

stepped between danger and the child, the day would have ended in chaos or

you," she murmured, sincerity softening every

small, practiced smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly

thanking

slipped a hand into the miniature pocket of his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added, "Every outfit you

hit the staff like a clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened, and the boutique fell

ensemble Ivy had chosen started at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended to buy the lot without

hovered around the card, uncertainty flickering across

a minor. A purchase of this scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel gave a single, calm

did not understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult

flared in Ivy's expression. "Of course," she said, nearly

sweeping the garments from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags

the other employees watched, envy shining

large could cover the down payment on a new car,

more.

was buying,

Ivy guided Nathaniel

really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or two pieces back? Together

over eight million." s

her, Ivy would never have taken a job at a boutique this

necessary," Jonathan said, firm as

objection, she finally swiped

the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy, it seemed, spent money the

the card with both hands, as though returning

accepted it with matching courtesy. "Ms. Ivy,

clerk finally set the

he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer

to whatever

her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's far too expensive," she blurted, hands rising like

apairof

low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you

delivered a lightning-fast briefing about the ruckus that had erupChapter

like silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and ribbon-tied shopping bags

cast a downward glance at Jonathan, who still wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did you have in a men's

miss a beat. “Oh. Ms. Kennedy wanted me to pop in and pick out a few outfits

and Mom's best friend would never check up

"Your Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts you,"

Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci never thinks of buying

darkened like a

tug. "Dad,

it was only because Vivian's eccentricity

appeared more like an adult

would never delegate adult shopping to a

sharpened. "You've figured something out, haven't

Jonathan blinked, performing

out a quiet breath. “When it comes to

fast, and the realization sent

you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so

forced a civil smile. "Why

clothes for me and Elliot, but none for you. She skipped you completely. That

mouth opened, then snapped shut.Am I showing

“And exactly where did you pick up on

across your face, Dad.” Jon shrugged

comment landed like a weight on his chest. If even a child could read him, how had Cecilia never noticed? She

when the restroom door stayed shut

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

in the corridor, she almost collided with

also noticed the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded

been? And what on earth

intent on inspecting the loot,

said smoothly.

been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was

would have been nice. I was starting to wonder why

gaped, utterly bewildered. When

and shot Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding flashed

carrying the

guess I've been skimping on water lately,"

Cecilia understood what was happening, concern flooded her eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him into a full- bodied

to a doctor, all right? You're far too little

aloud, Cecilia's chest pinched. Only a woman who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch of discomfort in that tiny

scooped up without warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks until his whole face burned as

merely confessed the problem, never imagining the confession would buy him

been ages since Cecilia had hugged him like

be fine if I drink

been the model child, obedient, courteous, eager to spare

shook her head, unwilling to yield. "That won't do. Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation

the way surgeons announce

Great, sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you could invent,

he whispered, the words nearly

boy and a glimmer

opened her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus

the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the

embarrassed. If you're not sure how to

plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping

he let Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his head so

I can

you can. You can handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that only made the boy's ears

forced to endure the stubborn

the bathroom with you," she said, voice low

"Okay."

the box like contraband and bolted

lounged with a plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating

sure doesn't

warning stare.

little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon

clapped her hands. “Come on," she said,

Mommy, you have to take tons of super-cool photos of

one, she handed them to the

photoshoot ended, she pinged the piChapter

departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in

including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug, photos of uneaten cookies, and

elderly couple, in return, video-called often to check on

seemed to

will you and the children be able to come back for a visit?" Bethany

belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side

the keyboard. "Nathaniel and I have decided. We'll come right after the New Year to visit you

you can. Your grandpa and I will prepare every one of your favorite

for a good while longer, then finally ended the call

change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their beds, fast asleep

fell into a rare hush, holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered

couch, eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five minutes of calm when Nathaniel suddenly

"Ceci."

surprise.

doing today?" His

What do you mean?" Confusion knitted her

Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing,"

sit plainly on his face. Cecilia finally read the room. Something

to his, worry eclipsing her earlier cheer. "What's the matter? Who

single step closer, the scent of cedar from his freshly

she could

long arms swept

possessive motion,

against his chest, as though staking a claim no

have

with gravel, every

breath fanned over her cheek. Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened as she tried to twist free, finding

If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees

his embrace, chin settling atop her hair as if the conversation

people holding each other? They're not babies anymore. They should understand," he

eyes, she muttered, "Not babies? They're only six-maybe seven- years

own," Nathaniel replied, the words low, laced with a faint, almost

brows arched, genuine amazement slipping past her

them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend

Besides, Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps Old Mr.

Jonathan, let him stay with

finger brushing her burning cheek. “You're being terribly

"Hmm?"

to be apart from the kids, yet you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest

Her proud, composed husband was jealous of

slipped out before she could suppress it. "Of course, the kids outrank you. I risked my life to bring them into

a storm gathering behind the

arms and bolted down

she would dare make a break for it, then sprang

the panel, his voice low and teasing. "Why lock me out? Are you

pushing harder on the door. "There are plenty of spare rooms in this house. Pick any one

strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her up again, and kicked the door

turned, and darkness enveloped

wind hissed against the windows, but inside, heat pooled between

came in a burst of white light, snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting the room

than an inch away. She could count the fine stubble dusting his

faint roughness, then lower to the soft

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open,

murmured, drawing her even closer until her breath

came out in a whisper, pressed

closed his eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just a little longer." "It's already nine. We really have

a full day of

mumbled, "Give me a

realize how clingy he could be, warmth

this

tugged at his mouth. "I was younger. Didn't

his hair, dark strands springing up beneath her

get moving. I have a busy day ahead,"

after you hit the mall with

shook her head. "That's

asked, still unwilling to

and something

carried a note of suspicion wrapped in playful

"Nope."

her head. He had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every hanger she touched, as if color

pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat.

the cause. He just hates it when I leave too

ceiling until the silence felt like a weight on his ribs Sleep had scattered, and there was

rose, padded through quiet hallways, and

1.

Elena had spirited Jon and Elliot

can say all that crap because you're an idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had even a sliver of sense, you'd know

only a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had any

just called you an idiot with half a brain for daring to ask for collaboration.

burned red. He spun toward the Baroness. “I—I didn't mean

own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her so-called

Alex-the outcast, the family fool-who stood

Sofina. She'd never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet

this

of you! From this moment on, Sofina will handle the Eden

The room fell silent.

she said. "I'll

crossed his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin that made her blood

into a sneer. "Go on, Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag the rest of us down

a thousand of you. She's fighting to lift this family up, while you bury it in arrogance and shame. You're nothing but a

the half-slave here, Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle worker? That she's going to save

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

Tell me, Beatrix-what's your real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking your own grandmother's got half a brain? That she's an

flinched and waved her hands fast. "No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal, that's all!

the fight even started. That's

snapped. "You're a fool if you think

"Then let's make this interesting. What if she does succeed? Want to make

arms. "Fine. You think I'm scared? Name your terms, Alex the

eyes gleamed. "I heard the Baroness gave you that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is ours foever. You move into our home, and

she said through clenched teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want both of you out of the

said, leaning back with a half-smile.

chimed in, "Count me in too! If I win, I

a brow.

won't lose. But fine-I'll play along. What

calling me a half-slave, how about this—if you

"Ha! You're really digging your own grave, loser! Fine-I'll take

me in too," Felicia said. "If you lose, I want you to divorce

flinch. "Fine," he said calmly. "But if I win,

this? I've already recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's official now. You'll have

"I like

didn't even glance at them. She couldn't

Wolfsbane family could

roared. "Sofina, you have three days to negotiate and close the deal.

Sofina frowned, glancing out the window. "You really think Grandma trusts me with the Eden

smirked. "Trust? No. Desperation?

him a look. "That's supposed to make

chuckled. "If you want comfort, talk to someone who hasn't met this family." Sofina rolled her

I bet

arched a brow. "You really think this bet

said. "It'll show who's got guts and

arms. "And what if

I'll finally fit right in with this

next morning, Sofina sat in the passenger seat, clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind

car they'd won from Nikolaus-a machine so rare in Winchester that

car's polished hood, “we should return this car. It's too

one hand casually resting on the wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy for a gardener like me," he

the future deputy of the Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare

can."

glancing at him. "You really think this is

okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll

anxious, half amused. "I wish I

grin widening. "You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot

as the car descended toward the Eden Group's towering headquarters, its glass walls

whispered

to open her door. "With me here, your luck's already doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener of the Eden Group. That means

QUMS

help but laugh. For a moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could carry that same unshakable optimism he always

felt something

god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old, fractured, scandal-scarred—could sit at that table felt

a beggar asking a

she'd promised her grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front of the whole house. There was no turning

occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all dressed in tailored suits and guarded

huddled in quiet conversations, their voices low but tense, each waiting for their turn to

Group. The sight

all every one

of them was hono

a coffaboration

What on earth are you doing

turned and found Heinrich standing

like hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way a judge's did

sentence.

her walk in here?" Heinrich bowed his head like a man forced to swallow bile. "I'm sorry, Katarina. I tried. I truly did. I don't understand 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." "Heinrich,” she said calmly. "I'm not here for you. I'm here for the

with mockery. "You? Who the hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group. You're not

a security drone glided into the room, humming softly

to monitor was just shoved by a guest-he forced her out into the entrance area. Do you want us to

the footage," Alex

around Sofina's arm, dragging her down the hallway while papers scattered across

his collar, pulled on his gloves, and strode out

a pile of scattered papers. He

helping her pick them up. "What

her head, frustrated. "It's Heinrich. No matter what I say, he just slips back into

he hurt you?" Alex asked, gently lifting

serious,"

you don't need to print everything. The digital files

"Maybe. But I like the feel of paper. I like touching something

chest. "The same way I like

chuckled. "You

looked at me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes I think it'd be better to live without

other as they walked back through the glass corridor of Eden's

a voice

the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I

The color

that still tied her

years of control doesn't vanish overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as

forward, placing himself

said. "You're a guest.

lips curled. "A gardener telling me how to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like a king. Where's your manager? I want to speak with

let out a low, sharp laugh. "Keep dreaming. You're not a king- you're just another arrogant fool. A pathetic worm in

personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener. When I'm finished, you'll be out of a job.” "You can try," Alex said, calm

anything. He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a nearby figure.

"Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you

out a derisive snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out. Frankly, Eden

falter; his tone tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you, tell me their

coldly. "That's the man. Your gardener. He insulted me

never

them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt officially registered, the security androids wouldn't

to forget your

Resources. I can fire you anytime I

Kneel and beg for his

should I? He's the one who tried to throw out another guest, and

gardener," Dietrich snapped. "Do you have any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one of the brightest

if he's not

compared to him! Now kneel before I make sure you regret

calmly, shaking

if you don't!"

darkly. "Come on, Alex. We've known each other a long time. Just kneel

low and dangerous. "How about this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three kowtows, then maybe I'll let you stay in

gather, drawn by the

to stand up

got a name. You know who he

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

that Alex? The walking mistake of Winchester?

smirked and

for my attention, haven't you? Well, now

who doesn't

and I might

hand tightened around Alex's arm, her knuckles

"If you don't, I'll make sure everyone in Winchester hears about this. You

have

on you-even the Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing outcasts. And you know

s

forward, but Sofina grabbed him tighter

but steady. "Let me handle

her face. She met his eyes. "Trust

Sofina stepped forward alone.Chapter

hit me, bitch-" He spat the word

curse.

in God's name do you think

Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her, give her twenty lashes, then throw

supporting him with a hand at the

security. Twenty lashes. She won't be

every syllable a command. "Give her what

until he stood toe-to-toe with Dietrich. "You'd better cancel that order," he said. "Someone's going to get hurt

who'll get hurt

bracelet. "Security —

tilted his head.

began to close

dare she hit Heinrich," someone

you know Heinrich's the

another

ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses swept over Sofina,

a threat to her, an alert

room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina had

wasn't just a home machine. Alex had wired her into his network bridge so

that touched Sofina reported to Eve first-she

"Override the previous command. Secure Dietrich and give

optical sensors swung

chest. The shock hit him like a thrown

drew an electric

followed. Dietrich's shout cut the

from triumph to alarm. "Is the Eden security unit malfunctioning?"

way. Eden Group tech is already the most advanced," someone muttered,

ripple of confusion

stop until Dietrich had

to his feet and kicked him out, shoving him past

struggling to catch

He wiped the blood away with the back of his wrist, his face twisting

hissed, voice low and

his hand swinging through

time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over

had endured it, not because she was weak, but because she'd once mistaken her submission

on Heinrich and seized his arm. "Find someone your own size," he said, low and

let go

under a hard lid. The government cameras watched from

screamed like an animal,

knees, clutching at a hand

dare you let me go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on

Group meeting room like a storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the

-

their offer - a bid to

the next family tied to its vast

they were desperater

she'd promised Eden that Heinrich

emerged into the main hall, the polished calm of her diplomacy shattered. What she saw made her

Heinrich down, and Heinrich

fury. She stormed over and slapped

How dare you strike him until he bleeds-I'll call the

police won't

that true?" Katarina

She hit my

steady. "So what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if

real power. The law

punishment could be death.

and swift. More often than not, the blame settled

law protected

struck a commoner, most people

power didn't need to

sharp eyes

to make me jealous, to get my attention. Well, you've got it. I think that's enough. Divorce her. I'll marry

frowned. "No. I won't divorce her. Go ahead and marry

don't have to

"I'm doing at this for you and for your Sant Claire family. When im done with

his

everyone just

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.

was long gone. Just the sound of her voice

walk away from me!" Katarina shouted. "Kneel! Now!" Katarina's voice cracked with fury and desperation. She had lost him once,

discovered something she wouldn't admit — she

him.

for her, the way he shielded her from the world, how he cared

everything was cold and transactionaChapter

didn't want

trying to put distance between them, but before he could take another step, her hand shot out and clamped around his wrist

fierce and cold, while his other arm still held

told you to stop, Alex,"

my temper." She stepped closer. "Remember when I made you kneel in the

don't owe you a damn thing. I don't answer to your

husband, you're my dog for life," Katarina hissed, and her hand whipped across his face. The

trembled — a flash of tears she fought to hide, gripping him with

command

bitch!" Katarina

without hesitation. Her eyes were quiet, but they held frost. "I pity you," she

on Alex. Sofina caught it in one swift move

go of my husband," Sofina ordered. "You're his ex- don't touch him again. He isn't yours. You're pathetic.

was used to obedience. She had been treated like royalty, and she'd made

the whispers for

Rosenheim title

they earned their barony by stabbing their own marquis, the Saint-

so-called empire was built on treachery, that beneath their silks and titles they were nothing more than well-fed

shouted to the room, her voice shaking with fury. "She's spitting on my

who bent to Katarina's will and some Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They moved to strike to humiliate Sofina for daring

robot glided between them, its mechanical voice

is permitted on Eden Group property," it announced firmly. "Cease all hostile

flashed. The would-be attackers jerked, their muscles seized, and they dropped hard to the floor, wracked

No violence," the security unit repeated. "Please remain calm

there, red-faced and unmoored robbed, for the moment, of

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

of here,"

Katarina's voice cracked like a whip. "You always talked about love! You said you loved me!

rage. “You promised to obey me, to give me your body, to destroy yourself for me! You liar! You damn

rot and fade, it hides behind forced gestures-empty rituals, hollow vows, or even violence

answer, another android

proceed to Meeting Room 01. I can escort you if you are unfamiliar

Alex squeezed her hand. “Go,” he said quietly. "This is

she asked, her

garden. Only workers and authorized personnel can access it. These people won't be able to follow." He smiled faintly, calm despite the

whispered, then followed the android down the corridor. The robot stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The person in charge will arrive

and a poised woman in a tailored

follow me. Miss Von Adler would like to meet you in

Von

She's expecting

still dazed, and followed the woman through the long,

Eden Group headquarters. Her

Von Adler-the most powerful

yet, the one about working with the Wolfsbane family. She wasn't supposed to meet

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 door engraved with the Eden

in. Inside, Marlena Von Adler-the legendary chairwoman of Eden Group-rose gracefully from behind her desk. Her presence filled the

Marlena said warmly, extending her hand. "I'm Marlena Von Adler, chairman of Eden Group.

felt her pulse race. She was standing before the most powerful businesswoman in

trembled slightly as she answered, but she kept

met

to see me," she said. "I came to discuss the collaboration proposal. I know the Wolfsbane Group isn't as large or as influential as some

but we work hard.

never disappoint."

to .net

folder. "This is the Wolfsbane Group

take a look."

knowing smile and

few pages, then closed it

she said, her voice soft but sure, "I've already reviewed your documents. I believe

blinked, stunned. "Really? You mean... it's

out.

felt too quick-too easy. She

possible question, expecting a long

in seconds.

back, her expression unreadable but

meet our usual standards. But our founder hold's your very nigh regard. He personally requested this partnership be offered to

she asked, her

I know who your

faint smile. “Our founder," she said

blinked, unsure if she'd heard

worry. You'll understand when the time comes.

you. He believes in you. And that's

instructed her not to reveal his identity, and she obeyed without

according to your proposal, your initial quotation for the

nervous. "Yes, that's right," she said, her

she said easily. "In fact,

slightly. "What do you

instructed me to increase the contract value,"

at one hundred

widened, her breath catching. "One...

repeated, barely believing it.

opened a folder, retrieved a crisp contract, and slid it

in

disbelief. Her

most powerful corporations in Winchester-had

"I forbid you from seeing her! If you dare bring that woman home as your wife, I'll throw

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

He kept shouting, "I'll beat you

arm, her voice soft

stopped, glaring at Finnian and gasping for breath, his

his gaze, her expression calm. "You should go. I'll talk to Grandpa," she

searching look, then turned and

clutched Amara's hand, his voice breaking. "Ama, Finnian's out of his mind. Can't you see? He insists on being with that actress, as if he's completely lost his senses. Why can't

fall as he squeezed her hand,

to respond. She didn't even know what she 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 was

voice clear. "Grandpa, there's something I've never told you, but I think you need to hear it

"What is it?"

Qu

You wanted that because you thought Finnian cared about me, but the truth is our relationship has never been good. Finnian rarely shows me

firm. She nearly

grandson. Mr. Everly listened, utterly exhausted, guilt

blame Amara for

l.ne

years, it had been Mr.

hand wearily. "Ama, I'm tired. I need to lie down for

well, Grandpa.

no hope for Amara and Finnian? He really did care for her, and he'd always dreamed She'd stay with the Everly family become Finian's wife. But

dwell on

Finnian still in the living room. He'd changed his shirt, and his wounds looked hastily

Chapter 365

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him briefly before looking away, steeling herself as she

Finnian spoke up. "Let me give you

"That's not necessary-"

want to talk to you," he added quickly, sensing her

between them. She nodded, walked out

real," she murmured,

grandmother, who had dreamed of a

it would come with such

had been

looked up at Marlena,

and awe.

whispered. "Thank you so

touch a performance. He was

best way -

And losing that warmth felt

thought

empty mornings, the silence at dinner, the ache

out of

and trembling, "Alex, I'm warning you! Kneel — and

I'let your husband keep his job. And if you take off your clothes while you're at it, might even forgive the 'trauma' you caused me.”

a moment, everything

smiled.

blink, her fist shot forward and

landed square on his nose with

Heinrich stumbled back, clutching

the crowd gasped.

u are."

about business. We both know why you're here. You came

Katarina's sight you're fucking pathetic

toward the entrance like a man hauling out

try to step foot in here again. I'm done with

over."

as the folder burst open, papers scattering across the marble steps. Heinrich glared

sure you

could finally pull herself out of the pain Dorian

on quietly after she got back. A few days

front of a house. Liliana's arm was looped through Finnian's, her

was blurred, but anyone could tell he was the CEO-no, now the Chairman of the

to have you." It looked

did it feel so

relationship, speculation they'd get married someday.

didn't issue a statement, they didn't try to take down Liliana's post either. Their silence was approval enough-everyone

photo went viral in minutes, and Liliana was suddenly flooded with messages, all wishing

on, people flocked around her, eager to curry favor. Some even joked about when she and Finnian were

this. Maintaining

?

to stay by her side with her life on the line. Now, with everyone falling over themselves to flatter her, she couldn't tell which words were genuine and which

But so what?

life. When that day came, these same people would rush to curry

“Hey, I heard you had a rough time a few days ago.

and another few days recovering

while, but it's over now. How about you?

well and

along well with her, and they'd even had dinner together a few times He'd always

Hogan had been the only member

no one could tell-she was a master at hiding her emotions. Even if she was uncomfortable, she'd never let it show. She chatted with Hogan as casually as

exchanges, he cut the conversation short. "I'm heading out. Let's catch up another time," he said,

called her "sis- in-law." She couldn't tell if he'd done it on

home and get some rest.

then left her dressing room, his brow furrowed, thoughts tangled up like

he spotted Amara coming down

real face, but every time he ran into her unexpectedly, her beauty still took

to her, blurting out, "You know Finnian and Liliana are

brought this up. "Weren't they already together for ages?" she replied,

cut him

He frowned, frustrated.

pregnant" with Finnian's child, they'd never actually been a couple. All that

left between them He'd wanted

despite not having a child anymore, suggested things had changed between her

asked what he actually wanted to know:

was the real reason he'd

puzzled. "Why would I

news had stung at first. But she'd already worked

was lying. His frown deepened. "You really don't have

Amara answered without hesitation.Chapter

Liliana clench her fists, her eyes darkening with a

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

naturally working overtime, revising scripts late into the night. This evening was no different-she was still

her door. "Come in," she called, barely glancing up. Keith strolled in like he owned the place, flopping onto

sip before saying, "Have you noticed? Lately, Finnian

eyes on the screen. "Weren't they always joined at

these past few days. You haven't noticed him running back and forth on set? The way he looks after

of you?" Amara recalled, her chest tightening for a split second as she remembered Louis' teasing words that had left Liliana visibly

with a casual tone. "What's the big deal? Didn't Liliana just have a miscarriage?

"True enough."

only relaxing when he saw no

right—what are you planning to do about the baby?" he asked, trying to sound offhand.

was mid-sip and

over her keyboard, Grabbing a

the

Why would I put your name down? How

marry you,

back on the couch and drawled, "Who says

but if I have a kid on

just rolled her

of being

him on

looked at him, then walked over and rested her hand on his shoulder. “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

Elysia and Keith were more like family than friends. They always found different ways to look out for her-Elysia with her warm, attentive gestures, Keith with his gruff but steadfast support. The difference, Amara figured, came down to gender more than

still sense his good intentions and, in a way, found

Keith realized she was still utterly clueless. He sighed, clearly giving up hope that she'd catch on to what he

her forehead. "Alright, alright, have it your way. My offer still stands-if you ever change your

your job already." Amara gave him a

that night. It was nearly ten, but there was still one more scene to shoot-an important one, at that: the first kiss between the male and

key moment, Amara brought her laptop and went outside to watch from behind the camera. Keith and Liliana were already in position, standing in front of the lens while Cedric, the

apart, and Cedric moved

"action," Keith suddenly raised his

Cedric asked, thrown

was calm. "I think we should fake

fell

camera work was pretty standard, but usually it was the actress who requested it. Having the male lead bring up first, especially with someone like Lillana, was unusual enough to make everyone glance curiously at Keith.

she'd always been the one to request the camera trick. This time, with Keith bringing it up first, she couldn't help but feel a sting to her

to say something-otherwise it would only look worse. She curved her lips into

a glance at Amara and covered her mouth as

furrowed immediately,

be interfering on set, but the last thing she wanted was for people to get the wrong idea about her

Sensing the awkwardness, a crew member-someone who'd been fawning over Liliana ever since her relationship

over.

he? Must've been back when he first started out. 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?"

let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd

of letting the matter drop. With a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth, he shot back, "That's not it. I just don't mind it with others. With her,

that followed

earlier exchange had been a subtle game of chess, this was Keith upending the board in front of everyone. His words

tried to appear, Liliana's hands balled into fists at her sides.

few people were ever so openly ruthless. Most played it safe-after all, today's golden child could be tomorrow's nobody, and vice versa. You

a shred of dignity. Was he really

Amara finally spoke up. She shot Keith a cool glance and said, "Enough. Let's get this scene over

shifted in an instant. "Of course,

he spoke to Amara

after midnight

parked outside the studio and glanced toward the entrance, as if searching for someone

Finnian's fleeting glance. Who

We were supposed to film a kissing scene, but Keith insisted on using a camera it he kept glancing

And when

out, but it's pretty obvious-he likes her. I think everyone can

as unreadable as ever, offering no comment. Sensing she'd said enough, Liliana deftly steered

arrived at the old manor. He handed his coat to a maid at the door and was just about to head upstairs when Amara

way, then quickly looked ahead and pretended not

called out to her.

stopped in her

when she'd left the set tonight. She 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 appetite, barely touched his dinner, and had even gotten

over.

peeked in through the 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

Amara he'd be 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 to see him and turned

called her name, and she stopped. "Is something

said, addressing the maids nearby. They quietly

Amara. "What's going on between you and

are

working in the entertainment industry, which his family strongly opposes. That fells 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 away

belongs to s

seemed completely out of the blue. She and Keith

into it. What

wasn't the first time. She remembered at Jessica's birthday party, Dorian had hosted the whole group, and Finnian had

Everly, let me say this one more time: Keith and I

baseless assumptions," Amara said, enunciating

did want to be with

don't need to

low, almost heavy. "You really can't tell how he feels

herding Amara back until she was

moved even an inch nearer, he'd have her completely

of night. The grand hall

stretching across polished wood. Amara felt

over her arm, the goosebumps prickling her skin. "He's just a friend, nothing more.

her to meet his gaze.

incredulous. She twisted her face from his grip, shaking his hand

you keep misreading things between us, but I'd appreciate it if you

pushed past him, her

her go, his eyes fixed on her retreating

did Hogan, who'd been hiding in the kitchen, quietly slip out. He replayed the scene he'd just witnessed, lips pursed in

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