The Almighty Dominance

Chapter 457: Chapter 483 Wang Hu Confirms His Love

Xiao Hong felt that something was suspicious. She was ambiguous, certainly having committed a serious mistake. Wang Hu should not be dragged into it. Wang Hu nodded; he thought the same.

Bai Fanglan was both ashamed and angry, almost to the point of bursting with rage. But she couldn’t leave in a huff and kneeled before him, choking up, "What’s the point in discussing past events? I promise this will be the last time I trouble you. Please don’t be so heartless; consider the child we lost..."

Xiao Hong interrupted her, "Hasn’t Wang Hu compensated you? Everything has a limit. Once it’s too much, it’s fake. You’re not disabled. You’re healthy, young, and have a college education. What’s so difficult about finding a job? You simply don’t want to work hard yourself and want easy money, but how is that possible?"

"Shut up," Bai Fanglan shouted angrily, "Who asked you to mind our business? Matters between Wang Hu and me are not yours to interfere with!"

Xiao Hong slightly frowned and became silent.

Wang Hu said, "Xiao Hong is right; I won’t help you find a job. If you want to kneel, you can just keep kneeling."

After saying this, he took Xiao Hong’s hand and walked away quickly. Xiao Hong’s entire arm felt stiff, and turning back, she glanced at Bai Fanglan left crying on the spot, then at Wang Hu.

Wang Hu chuckled, "Stop looking. No matter what happens to that woman, I won’t care."

"Hmm, but you’re still holding my hand."

"Is it wrong for me to hold your hand?"

Xiao Hong blushed, "But... but you said it was fake."

"It’s real now. Can I really hold your hand now?" Wang Hu smiled as he looked at her.

Xiao Hong lowered her head, rarely shy.

Wang Hu said, "I need to ask for your forgiveness. I’ve been divorced because I was immature in handling emotions and lacked empathy, like a wooden post, which hurt some people."

"I also dated before, but we broke up due to personality differences," she was quick to say, "Those romantic things aren’t suitable for us soldiers; we’ll be a fitting pair. Don’t ask about the past, but cherish the present!"

Though Wang Hu had a cold temperament, he was quite lenient with his own, giving Xiao Hong confidence that she’d have a good life with him.

Wang Hu laughed out loud, deciding to forget the pretensions. Together, they walked hand in hand.

Thus, Xiao Hong, once just helping out, became truly involved in the relationship, though Wang Hu’s parents weren’t aware.

A few days later, Wang Hu’s father’s lung examination results came out, just a minor inflammation from excessive smoking, and everyone breathed a sigh of relief. Mrs. Wang resolutely banned his smoking and incidentally pressed Wang Hu to finalize the marriage plans.

Both families highly approved, hastily setting their wedding for New Year’s Day, intending to relocate quickly. Otherwise, in such a remote area, how could Xiao Hong be pregnant? The parents were worried.

Thinking it over, Wang Hu agreed; he had been away long enough.

Things were joyous in their circle, but Bai Fanglan was miserable. Pleading with Wang Hu yielded no results, so she sought out other acquaintances. However, her grandfather, now retired, led these people to be extremely perfunctory towards her. Furthermore, Bai Fanglan’s affairs had become widely known, making hospitals reject her due to her poor medical skills.

Soon after her expulsion, she was forcibly discharged and returned home, only to find Bai Chuan had prepared a purchased train ticket for her.

Infuriated to the point of liver pain, Bai Fanglan bit her lip, "Grandfather, are you really giving me no way out? Just driving me away like this?"

Bai Chuan sighed, "It’s for your own good! Staying here no longer holds any meaning. I’m getting old, truly cannot withstand the stress anymore. Don’t worry; every month when my salary comes, I’ll send you fifty bucks."

Bai Fanglan coldly laughed, standing up abruptly, "Fine! Since you dislike me so much, I’ll leave! You’ll get your wish!"

She returned to her room and slammed the door.

Bai Chuan shook his head and went to care for his great-granddaughter. The child was pitiable; Bai Fanglan never cared while working, and even now unemployed, she remained indifferent.

The next morning, Bai Chuan woke up to find Bai Fanglan’s room in disarray. Everything was thrown about, yet she was gone.

Bai Chuan was puzzled; what happened? Then on the table, he found a letter.

Bai Fanglan said she’s left, gone south to find work, aiming to return once successful. The child was left for Bai Chuan to care for temporarily. Besides her jewelry and savings, she also took four thousand bucks from Bai Chuan’s drawer.

Bai Fanglan left in a fit of anger, refusing to believe she wouldn’t succeed! She vowed to get revenge! Against everyone who looked down on her and ignored her!

Bai Chuan worried, struggling to catch his breath, almost fainting. What on earth is Bai Fanglan trying to do!

The child from the next room cried out loudly, and Bai Chuan couldn’t neglect her, so he went to take care of her. Seeing her dark, gaunt face, Bai Chuan sighed deeply too, poor child. No father, and a mother who’s always negligent.

Bai Chuan’s previous grand ambitions were wiped away, leaving him with only taking care of the child daily.

Meanwhile, Sun Chan’s situation gradually returned to calm. Yuan Bing, due to his indecency and attempt at intentional homicide at their camp, faced serious charges. Coupled with Gu Junming’s thorough investigation, a raft of Yuan Bing’s business misconducts came to light.

Including tax evasion, engineering fraud, and bribery, among others, these evidences ensured Yuan Bing likely wouldn’t come out for life. People all around talked about it extensively, mostly cursing Yuan Bing and Bai Fanglan, some discussing Sun Chan.

Zhuang Lin was jumping up and down vigorously, but her husband knew and suppressed her decisively.

Later, the camp erupted with another scandal, overshadowing this one. It turned out Liu Gang secretly wrote reports, intending to falsely accuse Gu Junming!Chapter 645

Timothy shrieked in pain and turned in the direction where the branch had come from. His eyes were filled with fury as he asked, "Who ambushed me?"

There were only trees in sight, and nobody was there. Mad and flabbergasted, Timothy knew that the attacker was strong. A person who could pierce through his palm and then a tree with a branch must be a divine grandmaster.

Hence, he hurriedly summoned his ride-Hurricane Eagle. When Hurricane Eagle arrived, he jumped on it in a hurry and escaped.

Kaitlyn sighed in relief and bowed, saying, "Thank you for your help, sir. Please step out so I can thank you in person."

Obviously, she wasn't going to receive an answer. Just then, Sebastian walked out of the forest next to her. Thinking that the hidden expert had revealed themselves, Kaitlyn twirled around and found Sebastian instead.

"It's you? Why are you still here?"

"Didn't you ask me to be your pretext? I can't leave just like that," Sebastian said.

"Aren't you afraid that I'm going to kill you?" Kaitlyn said dangerously.

Smiling, Sebastian shook his head. "You would have killed me already if you wanted to. Why did you wait until now?"

"It's because you still have some use. Once you lose your value, I'll kill you," she said coldly.

Sebastian smirked without a word. Finally, he realized that Kaitlyn was a kind person. She was tough on the outside but soft on the inside. Although she kept saying she'd kill him, she never meant it.

"I'm returning to the sect. Don't forget your promise earlier to help me find that old man within a month. If you can't do it, I swear I'll kill you," Kaitlyn uttered and left.

"Hang on," Sebastian stopped her.

"What else?" she asked, looking back at him.

"Do you know how to leave this world?" Sebastian implored.

Besides the advanced third stage technique, this was currently his other big concern. Many people were waiting for him and they must be worried since he had been missing for such a long time He must

find his way back as soon as

possible.

s

"Leave this world?" Confusion was written all over Kaitlyn's face. "I have no idea

what you're talking about. I'm going now if there's nothing else."

Sebastian nodded and left the spot as well because he could sense people heading this way at a high speed. They must be the experts from Netherworld Sect who had heard squads of the fight from earlier. s

He planned to make a trip to Holton and find out from a few more people about ways to leave this world.

Unbeknownst to him, a young man was leading a group of people to Jenna's house. His name was Sean Knott, Martin's nephew and Heather's cousin.

With a loud bang, Sean kicked and broke the wooden door before marching into the yard aggressively. "Sebastian Wilder, get out here!"

Jenna and Fressia rushed out after hearing the commotion. "Who are you?"

Sean's mouth opened to say something, but he suddenly saw Fressia and was smitten by her beauty. "What a gorgeous woman! Are you Sebastian Wilder's wife?"

"Yes. Do you know my husband?" Fressia asked.

"Damn it. That bastard is really lucky to marry such a beautiful woman." Sean's face was full of jealousy. "Where's SebastianChapter 646

Upon Sean's command, a group of hitmen charged at Jenna and Fressia. One of them kicked Jenna so hard that he broke her legs, then they rained punches and kicks on her.

"Jenna! Stop it!" Fressia wanted to save Jenna, but she was helpless and couldn't even save herself.

A few men dragged her into the house. Despite having cultivation, she didn't know how to put it to good use.

"Remove all her clothes! I'll be the first, and the rest of you can queue up after me." Sean was losing patience, starting to undress after stepping into the house.

Fressia was so scared that she turned pale. She pleaded with them miserably, but they had no compassion at all. Instead, they were even more excited.

Lying in the yard, Jenna didn't even have the strength to get up. Besides cursing loudly, there was nothing else she could do.

Although the neighbors heard the commotion, they didn't dare to stick their noses into this because someone recognized that these people were from the Knott Estate.

...

Holton was a bustling city, and the streets were full of people. Suddenly,

hoofbeats echoed from the front. It turned out that a carriage was out of control, rampaging on the street. Terrified, the pedestrians jumped out of the way in panic.

Sebastian stood at the side of the road as well, but a little girl's cries in the middle of the road caught his attention.

Seeing that the carriage was about to hit her, the little girl froze on the spot in fright and continued crying. Without hesitation, Sebastian stood in front of her in a flash and placed a palm on the horse's head.

The big and tall horse fell from the huge impact, flipping the carriage to the side as well.

"Ah!" A woman in the carriage shrieked, and two people dashed out of the carriage.

They were a middle-aged man and a gorgeous young lady. The moment she stood up, she turned to Sebastian and said in a huff, "How dare you flip our carriage! The nerve of you!"

"I did it to save a life." Sebastian pointed at the little girl.

When the young lady wanted to say some more, the middle-aged man stopped her. "Abigail, it's alright. He didn't do it on purpose. Moreover, we almost hit someone earlier."

"How are you doing, Father?" the young lady, Abigail Watson, asked in concern.

"I'm fine. I can still take it." The middle-aged man seemed frail and left with Abigail's help.

"You're in a terrible condition now. If you don't receive treatment on time, you'll pass away in half an hour," Sebastian said.

"How dare you cure my father!" Abigail was enraged.

Sebastian chuckled softly. "I'm merely telling the truth. Your father sustained a hidden injury when he was younger and has been dragging it way too long. It's a miracle he's alive until now." s

that

ghat

"How do you know that my father has a hidden injury from his early years? Who are you?" Abigail asked warily.

"I'm a doctor. Your father's illness is clearly written on his face, and I can tell with just a look," Sebastian explained proudly.

"Since you're so amazing, do you have a way to treat it?" she asked with a hopeful face.

All these years, they had visited

many famous doctors and even

whonet

asked help of the

the help of the alchemist

from

fort

otherworld Sect, button

avail.

s

"It's a piece of cake to me. He'll be as good as new with one pill," Sebastian answered.

Abigail grabbed his arm anxiously. "What pill is that? Let me have it! I promise to

pay you handsomely as long as it can save my father."

"The pill is very precious," Sebastian explained.

"That's not a problem. My father isChapter 647

"Do you know how to leave this world?" Sebastian asked.

"Leave this world?" Abigail wore a look of confusion.

Hendrick Watson suddenly interjected, "Mr. Wilder, do you mean leaving Coreland?"

"Do you know about it?" Sebastian was exhilarated. His biggest fear was that no one knew about it.

"So, the records in the ancient books are real! Honestly, I didn't know about it. I've only seen some records in an ancient book," Hendrick explained.

"Where's the ancient book?" Sebastian asked anxiously.

"Wait a minute. I'll ask someone to bring it." Then, Hendrick ordered a worker to bring the ancient book.

Hendrick soon found the part where Coreland was recorded. After checking it carefully, Sebastian finally found a clue. "The Abyss!"

If the records were accurate, the way out of Coreland was through The Abyss.

"Mr. Wilder, The Abyss is a death zone. Anyone who goes in there will die. Don't act recklessly," Hendrick advised.

Abigail nodded in agreement. "Yes. The Abyss is one of the three forbidden areas. For thousands of years, no one has walked out of there alive.

"The records in the ancient book may not be correct. I think it's just a myth. It's impossible to have another world. That's all nonsense."

Sebastian merely smiled without a reply, feeling even more confident that The Abyss was the exit. Although it was a forbidden area, he had to take the risk in order to get back and only after he obtained the advanced stage three technique.

The stage three technique must be within the doors of Netherworld Sect. There were three ways to get it. The first method was very straightforward robbing.

With his strength, not even a thousand men from the Netherworld Sect were his opponent. In spite of that, it was ethically wrong to rob so brazenly.

The second method was stealing. Although it was also ethically wrong, it was slightly better than robbing.

Last but not least was trading. He had the techniques for the first and second transformations. They would probably agree if he traded one of them with them.

Sebastian was a man of his word. He asked Abigail to get him a brush and paper and wrote dozens of herbs in one shot.

These were the herbs needed to produce the Ultimate Nourishing Pill. This pill could strengthen the body and increase the cultivation. In the meantime, it could also heal injuries.

As the largest commerce

association in the county, the Holton Chamber of Commerce had all sorts of herbs. Some herbs had a different name as the ones in the surface world but

dese after Sebas

Abigail

knew which ones he meant.

belongs to s

After the herbs were prepared, he started making the pill right away. The chamber

of commerce had a place dedicated to making pills, and there was also a mini

Spirit Gathering Formation.

Beneath the cauldron was magma,

which could save a lot of energy

during the refining process. In addition, Sebastian's cultivation had greatly increased, so it didn't the him at af to refine the Ultimate

Nourishing Pill. s

In less than half an hour, it was ready. Hendrick was stunned when Sebastian presented the pills to him.

"Goodness, this is a second-grade medication. I didn't expect that you're a second-grade alchemist, Mr. Wilder. It's an honor to meet you." Hendrick politely bowed down low toward him, full of respect.

The way Abigail looked at Sebastian took a change as well, her eyes filled with admiration. There was even an odd light in her eyes, and her face blushed unwittingly.

"Are second-grade alchemists amazing?" Sebastian asked, puzzled.

As there were only a handful of alchemists in Coreland, he never found out his alchemy level.

Hendrick replied, "Of course, they are. It's incredibly rare to find an alchemist, and every one of them are very noble.

"All bigger sects and families are spending a lot of money to recruit them, and they enjoy generous benefits if they work for the royalties.

"Furthermore, second-grade alchemists are even harder to find. The head alchemist of Netherworld Sect is their fourth great-elder, Bertha Erikson. She's a second-grade alchemist."

"There's only one third-grade alchemist in Starfire Empire, and he's the imperial chaplain. His status is high, and even the king has to respect him," Abigail added.Chapter 648

Now that Sebastian already knew where the advanced stage three technique was and the way back home, he planned to return home and explain everything to Fressia.

Before he even reached the door, he already sensed something amiss. The door was missing, and pieces of wood were scattered around.

His instinct told him that there was trouble, so he bolted over as fast as he could.

Upon entering the yard, he saw blood on the ground, and the unease in his heart amplified.

"Jenna! Fressia!" he shouted while dashing into the house.

One of the rooms was a complete mess, and there were also bloodstains. There was even a large hole on the roof.

"Jenna! Freesia!" He dashed back to the yard and continued shouting their names, but nobody answered.

Hence, he utilized his spiritual senses. The next second, he turned to the haystacks nearby and was over there in a flash. Parting aside a bunch of dry weed, he found Jenna.

Her face was covered in blood, and her breathing was barely noticeable. She already slipped into a deep coma, and her life was hanging on a thread.

Hurriedly, Sebastian pressed his palm against her and injected his spiritual energy into her to treat her injuries.

His spiritual energy had strong healing effects. In seconds, Jenna's breathing gradually stabilized, and she slowly opened her eyes.

"You're back, Sebastian." Jenna's voice was very weak, but her expression took a great change the next second. "Sebastian, run! The men from Knott Estate want to kill you!"

"Don't worry, Jenna. They can't do anything to me. Tell me what happened. Where's Fressia?" Sebastian implored anxiously.

Although he and Fressia were from different camps and were even enemies, they were husband and wife before she recovered her memories, and they have feelings for each other.

"I don't know where she is, either." Jenna briefly told him what happened.

The men dragged Fressia into the room with indecent intentions, but Jenna had

no idea what happened later. There was a fight, and then, she heard a loud bang.

Jenna was in the yard and only heard someone saying, "After her!"

Afterward, everything was quiet.

Later, she crawled into the house, dragging her exhausted body, but there was nobody inside. All she saw was a hole on the roof Worried that the men from the Knott Estate would return, she hid between the haystacks and passed out unwittingly. s

"Martin and Heather Knott, I'll make sure you die a horrible death!" Sebastian clenched his fists, his eyes gleaming coldChapter 649

"Don't cry, and rest assured, Jenna. I won't strike unless I'm confident, but I can promise you that I'll bring Fressia home," Sebastian assured.

Time was crucial in saving a life, not to mention that Fressia was gorgeous. In the hands of those inhumane men, it wasn't hard to imagine the torture she'd have to go through in their hands.

Therefore, she must be saved as quickly as possible. Any minute later meant that she would suffer more.

For now, Jenna's condition was stabilized. Unfortunately, her legs were broken. Even after Sebastian had given her an Ultimate Nourishing Pill, she'd still need a few days to recover.

Sebastian was ready to return Jenna to the room and then save Fressia when he heard sounds of hooves from outside the door. He looked outside and saw dust rolling as a group of stocky bandits headed toward his house on galloping horses while carrying weapons in their hands.

The chief was a tall and burly skinhead. With a chubby face and eyes as big as golf balls, he looked ferocious and intimidating.

At the sight of them, Jenna's face fell. "Oh, no! They're the bandits from Mount Blitzen, and their chief is Brork Gantz. Run, Sebastian!"

In this world, many bandits claimed mountainous areas to be the chiefs, and Mount Blitzen was the closest bandit lair to this village.

To the kind and innocent villagers, bandits were more terrifying than the nobles. Although the nobles would also intimidate them and even steal the virginities of brides, they would usually return the women to their families after they were done with them.

However, bandits were different because they often murdered and plundered. It was common for them to violate young women and abduct the pretty ones to be their wives. Once they were bored of them, they would kill them.

Due to this, bandits were akin to devils in the villagers' eyes, and the fear they held for bandits was deeply instilled.

Undoubtedly, Sebastian wasn't afraid of the bandits, and he waited for their arrival silently.

Their house was not located at the entrance of the village, but the bandits headed straight for them and entered their yard.

"I heard that there's a beautiful bride in this house. Bring her out here and show me," Brork directly announced the reason that he had gone there.

Although Fressia had only been there for a short time, everyone who saw her would be stunned, and her beauty was already known far and wide.

After hearing news of her, Brork had brought his men here to bring her back for their own enjoyment.

Anxiously, Jenna fell to her knees. "Mr. Gantz, the men from Knott Estate have abducted my goddaughter-in-law."

"You're lying! Search the house!" Brork wouldn't be taken in so easily. Upon his order, the bandits behind him hopped off their horses and headed for the house. s

"Stop right there!" Sebastian bellowed out of the blue, and everyone froze.

"Don't be rude, Sebastian. Apologize to Mr. Gantz now!" Jenna berated sternly Then, she flashed Brork a smile, "Mr Cantz hChapter 650

"Get on my knees for him? He doesn't deserve it. Get up, Jenna. There's no need to be afraid of them," Sebastian said.

The bandits were enraged, charging at him ferociously. Some even raised their swords, ready to cut him to pieces.

Jenna couldn't bear to watch and could already imagine Sebastian's terrible death.

On the other hand, Sebastian didn't move a muscle or dodge. Brork simply thought that he was too frightened to move and sniggered.

The next second, swords landed on Sebastian, but there was no bloody scene.

Everyone merely heard a loud boom as a terrifying energy erupted from Sebastian's body. In an instant, the terrifying energy shattered the swords, and the bandits were thrown off, spewing out blood and dying before even hitting the ground.

"What?" After seeing this scene, Brork was flabbergasted, his eyes filled with shock and disbelief.

The men he had brought with him were the elites amongst his henchmen, and they were all warriors, including the second-in-command of the bandits, who was a pinnacle warrior.

Sebastian had killed all of his men solely by releasing his energy. This was a fearsome strength, and Brork reckoned that not even a grandmaster might be capable of it.

"You're a grandmaster!" Brork's face was full of shock. "Why is there a grandmaster in a small village?"

Sebastian raised his head at him and said indifferently, "You've successfully enraged me, and the price to pay is death."

"What arrogance!" Brork snorted. "So what if you're a grandmaster? I've been the king at Mount Blitzen for more than two decades. The Knott Estate has tried to take me down many times but to no avail. Why do you think I could achieve this?"

Suddenly, he jumped and gave Sebastian a palm through the air.

A huge wave of energy blasted toward Sebastian, who was unfazed and composed. With a wave of his hand, an even greater energy erupted from him.

Along with another loud bang, Brork's attack was repelled, and the remaining force struck him without stopping.

As though struck by lightning, Brork was blasted away by the energy and threw up blood, his eyes filled with shock.

There was a thud as Brork landed heavily on the ground after he was blasted off more than 30 feet away. The impact was so strong that it created a concave in the ground.

Sebastian's eyes were impassive, and with a flash, he was right in front of Brork. Quick and silent, he moved like a ghost.

Brork almost wet his pants as he begged for his life on his knees in panic. "Please spare me. I was wrong. Please let me off."

"Bandits have done all kinds of evil, violating women, plundering, and many other heinous deeds. You deserve death, and I'll rid the people of such a wicked many today Sebastian said. s

Right before he struck, Brork said anxiously, "Please hold on and listen to me, sir. Although I'm a bandit and have done many wrong, I usually plunder and rarely kill.

"Furthermore, I rob the rich and hardly harass the villagers. Please let me off. I promise I'll never do it again."

"I'm missing a henchman now. Are you able to obey me unconditionally?" Sebastian asked.

"Y-Yes, master!" Brork didn't dare to disobey. He had succumbed to Sebastian's strength and had no thoughts of defying him.

Meanwhile, Jenna was utterly flabbergasted by the scene before her eyes. She knew that Sebastian was strong because he coChapter 651

"You can refuse, but I'll kill you right now," Sebastian said coldly.

"I'll go! I'll go, okay?" Brork almost cried. Not going meant death, but going also meant death. It was just supposed to be a simple mission, so how did things get so unlucky for him?

The two of them rode their horses at full speed and soon entered Holton, heading straight for the Knott Estate. Upon arriving at the entrance, they dismounted and barged right in.

"Hold it!" the guards immediately shouted harshly.

Sebastian acted as if he hadn't heard them and continued walking straight ahead.

"How dare you trespass on Knott Estate? You're courting death!"

Enraged, the guards drew their swords and slashed at Sebastian.

Sebastian ignored them, leaving Brork no choice but to intervene and send the guards flying.

The fallen guards were both shocked and furious, and they quickly called for help. Hearing the commotion, more people from the Knott Estate rushed out.

"Sebastian Wilder!"

Many recognized him immediately since Heather had been seen showing him around Knott Estate not long ago.

However, they were also aware that Sebastian had fallen out with their young lady, so they angrily shouted, "How dare you barge into Knott Estate?"

"Tell Martin to get out here!" Sebastian shouted fiercely.

"How dare you disrespect the city lord! You're asking for it! Seize him and bring him to Mr. Knott for punishment!"

The leader of the guards commanded, and a group of them charged at Sebastian. Sebastian stood still, making no move to fight back.

Brork was internally groaning. He knew all too well that if he didn't act, Sebastian wouldn't hesitate to kill him. So, he reluctantly braced himself and joined the fray.

He was a grandmaster. Even though he was injured, he was more than capable of handling these guards. Each strike sent several flying, and not a single one could get close t Sebastian s

The leader was furious. "You're Brork Grant, chief of the bandits from Mount Blitzen, aren't you?

"How dare you cause trouble at the Knott Estate! You've got some nerve! Guards, kill him!"

The Knott Estate guards were ranked by level. The ordinary guards weren't even considered warriors; only the squad leaders had that status.

In addition, there were silver-armored guards, all of whom were warriors, with the squad leaders being mid to advanced-level warriors among them.

At the leader's order, a group of silver-armored guards charged at Brork. But a grandmaster was still a grandmaster, even wounded, he was not someone regular warriors could match. s

They quickly fell one after another.

"You're courting death!"

The leader was enraged. He suddenly leaped into the air and struck down at Brork with his palm.

Brork was caught off guard and hurriedly raised a fist to block the attack. A resounding bang followed, and he spat out a mouthful of blood as he was sent flying.

It was clear that the leader was also a grandmaster. He then approached Sebastian with an air of arrogance.

"So, you managed to get Brork on your side. That's impressive, but if you think you can storm the Knott Estate by relying on him, you're far too naive."

"Rely on him?"

Sebastian smirked. "I have never relied on anyone but myself. Brork is merely my slave."Chapter 652

Heather had just joined Netherworld Sect and was still a newcomer. Nevertheless, she often wasn't present at the sect, which somewhat surprised Sebastian.

What he didn't know was that Heather joined the sect mainly to have Bertha help treat her illness. As for cultivation, she didn't really need to rely on the sect because she had a family-legacy technique that was nearly as good as what the Netherworld Sect offered.

Moreover, she had been practicing it since childhood, so switching to a new technique would be more trouble than it was worth.

Heather stormed over, brimming with fury. "Sebastian, you've got some nerve! How dare you trespass into Knott Estate and show disrespect to my father! Today, I'll personally chop your head off!"

When Sebastian saw Heather, his eyes flashed with a hint of anger.

Heather had drugged him. While he was unconscious, she had used evil methods to extract his spiritual energy, blood essence, and even bone marrow, all before throwing him off a cliff.

If not for his strong cultivation and resilient body, he would have died. He had not forgotten this grudge.

He hadn't immediately sought revenge on Martin and Heather because he was still searching for the third stage of his technique and a way home, so he endured it for the time being.

But to his shock, this father-daughter duo had crossed the line by targeting Jenna and Fressia. They had simply pushed him beyond his limits.

"Heather, it was one thing for you to harm me, but why go after Jenna and my wife? They're just ordinary people," Sebastian demanded sharply.

Heather sneered. "They're just two lowly commoners. I was already merciful enough to not kill them."

At that moment, Martin also walked out. "Heather's right. Sebastian, I'm surprised you're still alive after everything, and you don't even look injured.

"If I were you, I'd have found a place to hide long ago, but here you are, handing yourself over."

Sean and others followed behind Martin. He turned to Heather and said, "Heather, there's no need for you to dirty your hands. Just stand aside and watch-I'll kill him myself."

"Fine, but don't let him die too easily. I won't be satisfied unless he suffers," Heather said coldly.

"Don't worry. I promise he'll enjoy every bit of it!" Sean assured with a cruel grin. He then looked at Sebastian and said, "If you kneel down and beg for mercy now, maybe I'll let you keep your corpse in one piece, you brat."

"The ones who should die are you

people! Release my wife

immediately, or I'll slaughter

everyone in knott Estate!"

wel

sebastian's voice was filled with

murderous intent. 's

Heather scoffed. "You're really delusional. A mere ant like you talking about wiping

out Knott Estate-you don't know your place!"

Martin sneered wickedly. "So, you're here for your wife, huh? Too bad you're too late; we already played her to death."

"What did you say? She's dead?" Sebastian was stunned. If Fressia hadn't lost her memory and married him, her fate would have been irrelevant to him. He might have even celebrated her death s

But now, it was difficult for him to accept that she was gone.

།

Martin smirked triumphantly. "That's right. I have to admit, your wife was really beautiful. She was such a joy to play with. We took turns, dozens of us, one after another, untilshe died from the sheer pleasure of it." s

shea

"You're asking for it!" Sebastian could no longer suppress the fury within him, and

a terrifying killing intent erupted from his body.

In an instant, everyone present felt a chill of fear, and even Martin was taken aback.

At that moment, Sebastian suddenly moved, grabbiChapter 653

Sebastian acted as if he hadn't heard anything and broke Sean's other leg with another kick.

Sean was in so much pain that tears were streaming down his face. "Please, spare me! I was lying earlier! Your wife isn't dead, and we didn't hurt her."

"Then, where is she? Let her go immediately!" Sebastian demanded, his voice dripping with murderous intent.

Martin quickly added, "I don't know where she is! We never captured her in the first place."

"You're still lying to me!" Sebastian snarled as he crushed Sean's shoulder blade.

Sean almost passed out from the pain. "I'm not lying, I swear! We planned to do something to her, but she suddenly went wild! She broke through the roof, and escaped. We chased her for a long time but couldn't catch her.

"I'm telling the truth, please, spare me."

Sebastian let out a sigh of relief, trusting Sean's words. Fressia's memory loss hadn't affected her abilities; it was entirely possible she escaped through the roof when in danger.

Heather shouted angrily, "Sebastian, I advise you to release my cousin immediately, or I'll have you cut into a thousand pieces, leaving you without a complete corpse!"

Sebastian ignored Heather and looked at Sean. "Even if you didn't hurt my wife, you still harbored evil intentions toward her. Not to mention, you nearly killed my godmother.

"You deserve to die!"

With that, Sebastian snapped Sean's neck with a loud crack.

"Sean!" Martin rushed forward to check, but Sean was already lifeless.

"He actually killed Mr. Sean! The nerve of him!"

Everyone at Knott Estate was filled with rage, and Heather's murderous aura surged as well. "How dare you kill my cousin? I'll have you torn to shreds!"

Heather immediately advanced toward Sebastian, unleashing a terrifying aura. "She's a pinnacle warrior!"

"Ms. Knott is truly remarkable! As expected of Holton's number one

prodigy. She's reached the pinnacle Warrior level at just

She now has

a real chance of becoming

20

grandmaster before she turns 18." s

"That's right. Her talent is unparalleled, rivaling even that of Ms. Kaitlyn from the Netherworld Sect Her future achievements are limitless!" s

Everyone was full of admiration, their eyes brimming with fervent worship.

"Die!" Heather shouted, clenching her fist as she prepared to strike Sebastian. Just then, a commanding voice rang out from a distance.

"Hold it!"

།

The voice wasn't particularly loud, but it carried an undeniable authority that shook everyone to their core. Heather feft a jolt of fear and instinctively halted. fo s

They all turned toward the source of the voice and saw a middle-aged man

striding forward, accompanied by a young girl.

"It's Mr. Watson!" someone exclaimed.

The man was none other than the chairman of Holton Chamber of Commerce. He was accompanied by his daughter, Abigail.

"Mr. Watson, what brings you to Knott Estate?" MartChapter 654

Hendrick knew that Sebastian was no ordinary person. Since Sebastian wanted to handle things himself, it was clear he had confidence in himself, so Mr. Watson stepped aside with a sense of relief.

However, he remained ready to intervene at any moment. Sebastian had given him a new lease on life, and he was determined not to let anyone harm him.

Heather stared at Sebastian coldly and said, "I don't know why Mr. Watson is protecting you, but anyone who goes against Knott Estate is as good as dead!"

As she spoke, she unleashed her aura again, making the guards around her feel incredibly oppressed.

Heather smirked smugly. "Do you see this? This is my power. It won't be long before I become a grandmaster. In my eyes, you're nothing more than an insect. If you kneel and apologize now, I might consider leaving your corpse intact."

Sebastian responded with a mocking smile, "Even grandmasters are nothing more than ants to me. You don't even qualify as one, yet you dare spout nonsense in front of me? How laughable."

"You're asking for it!" Heather shouted furiously. She raised her hand and struck Sebastian with a powerful blow.

Sebastian merely stood there, not moving an inch, appearing as though he was paralyzed with fear.

Hendrick was startled by this and was about to step in to save him when he noticed something strange.

Heather's palm had already connected with Sebastian's chest, but he remained completely unaffected, as if nothing had happened.

On the other hand, Heather's expression changed drastically as she was filled with shock and disbelief.

Sebastian showed her a disdainful smile and then extended his hand, pressing it in her direction from a distance.

An invisible force immediately bore down on Heather. She had no strength to resist and collapsed to her knees with a loud thud while her eyes filled with terror. "What?"

Everyone present was stunned. Heather was a pinnacle warrior, yet after hitting Sebastian with a palm strike, he remained completely unharmed.

With just a distant press of his hand, he had forced her to her knees. This kind of power was just too terrifying.

Heather struggled to stand, but the invisible force was too overwhelming, rendering her unable to move.

"This can't be! How is your strength so formidable?"

"It's not that my strength is formidable; it's that yours is too weak," Sebastian replied, delivering a slap to Heather's face.

A loud smack echoed as Heather was sent flying nearly 20 feet away.

"How dare you hurt my daughter? I will make sure you die without a burial!" Martin

roared in fury as he charged toward Sebastian.

"The city lord himself is stepping in!

This kid is done for," the Knott Estate people exclaimed excitedly, as seeing a divine grandmaster take action was a rare sight. s

Sebastian smirked with disdain, ready to retaliate when Hendrick suddenly stepped in, positioning himself in front of Sebastian.Chapter 655

Although he was a grandmaster, Brork was nothing more than an ant in the face of a divine grandmaster like Martin.

Since he had come with Sebastian, he knew that once Martin killed Sebastian, he wouldn't be spared either.

Brork desperately wanted to flee, but Knott Estate's guards surrounded him on all sides.

"You can go ahead and try!" Hendrick stepped forward, releasing a similarly terrifying aura, one that matched Martin's intensity.

"He's a divine grandmaster! Mr. Watson is also a divine grandmaster!"

Everyone was astonished. Divine grandmasters were the most formidable beings

in the world, capable of single-handedly opposing entire armies.

However, such powerful individuals were exceedingly rare.

In all of Holton, excluding the Netherworld Sect, Martin had been the only divine grandmaster.

Now that Hendrick had also ascended to the Divine Realm, it was no wonder everyone was so shocked.

"You actually broke through to the Divine Realm!" Martin exclaimed, clearly surprised.

Hendrick smiled and said, "Indeed, not only did I fully recover from my injuries, but I also broke through the bottleneck and entered the Divine Realm. Do you still think I can't protect Mr. Wilder now?"

Martin's expression turned cold. "Mr. Watson, even though you've entered the Divine Realm, you've only just broken through. You're no match for me, so I suggest you think it over carefully."

Hendrick snorted. "There's nothing to consider. I won't allow anyone to harm Mr. Wilder."

"Then, you've brought this upon yourself. Don't blame me for being ruthless," Martin growled before launching a punch at Hendrick.

Hendrick quickly countered with a punch of his own.

A deafening explosion echoed as a terrifying force erupted from the clash of their fists. The shockwave hit those nearby, stinging their faces and sending them scrambling back in fear and astonishment. s

At the same time, Hendrick was forced back a few steps by the powerful energy, while Martin only wavered slightly, clearly demonstrating who was stronger.

This outcome was inevitable, given that Martin had entered the Divine Realm long ago, while Hendrick had just recently broken through. It certainly left a significant gap, between them. s

Vol

Martin snorted and pressed his advantage, throwing punch after punch, leaving Hendrick with no chance to counter. Martin then. seized an opportunity and struck Hendrick squarely in the chest, sending him flying with a terrifying force. s

Hendrick immediately spat out a mouthful of blood mid-air.

"Father!" Abigail cried out in shock, rushing forward to support him.

Martin smirked with satisfaction. "I told you before that you're no match for me, but you wouldn't listen!"

Hendrick wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and said coldly, "Even if I'm not your match, if you insist on killing Mr. Wilder, I will fight to the death!"

"Mr. Watson, sacrificing yourself is pointless. I won't stop you if you leave right now, but that kid is doomed." Martin sneered, then turned to Sebastian.

"Brat, now I see why you dared to make trouble at KChapter 656

Upon hearing this, Martin smirked mockingly. "I really don't know where you get your confidence from, brat. You're at death's door, yet you still talk tough!"

Heather approached, her eyes filled with fury as she glared at Sebastian.

She spat venomously, "No one has ever laid a hand on me since I was a child. You're the first. I will make you wish for death over life! As for your wife and godmother, I'll ensure that they suffer fates worse than death too!"

The moment she finished speaking, a terrifying killing intent erupted from Sebastian, causing the surrounding temperature to plummet. Everyone present felt a chill of fear run down their spines.

Almost instantly, Sebastian moved aside.

His figure blurred like a ghost. In the blink of an eye, he was in front of Heather, gripping her neck tightly.

Heather's face instantly turned pale with fright; she never expected Sebastian's strength to be so terrifying. What confused her even more was that she had cast a forbidden technique on Sebastian, which should have killed him, but he remained completely unscathed.

"Let go of Heather, or I'll ensure you die a brutal death!" Martin shouted, both shocked and furious. He was startled by Sebastian's power, especially his incredible speed.

Still, he remained confident that he could easily subdue Sebastian. After all, no matter how talented Sebastian was, he was still young-his strength couldn't possibly be that formidable.

Sebastian could be a grandmaster at most. As a divine grandmaster himself, that was merely a slightly stronger ant.

Sebastian's eyes gleamed with a cold light as he stared at Heather and said icily, "You have some nerve, Heather, threatening me with my wife and godmother!"

As she was both frightened and enraged, Heather tried to maintain her composure as she said, "Let me go now, or my father will tear you to pieces!"

"Your father is nothing but an ant in my eyes! He's not even worth fearing!" Sebastian scoffed.

"Damn, this guy is way too arrogant! He actually dared to call Mr. Knott an ant. He has no idea what he's up against!"

"Exactly! The divine grandmaster is one of the most powerful beingsan existence, and he dares to call a divine grandmaster an ant? What a joke! Knott Estate's people sneered, mocking Sebastian. s

Even Hendrick and Abigail thought Sebastian was being too arrogant. It was fine

to boast, but there needed to be a limit; otherwise, it would just make him a laughingstock.

Martin laughed angrily, "You brat, if you think I'm just an ant, then let Heather go and face me in a duel. Let's see what you're really made of."

continued to grab

throw her over 30 feet away. She landed heavily on the ground, coughing

Heather was furious, nearly

feet and shouted, "Father, don't just kill him outright!

coldly, "You heard Heather. I'll first cripple your cultivation, then

back, his face full of disdain. "You're just an

of this ant!" Martin roared, charging at Sebastian with incredible speed.Chapter

though his punch had struck an indestructible metal, making his fist go numb. He tried to retreat upon realizing something was terribly wrong,, but

Sebastian. With

immediately spewed a mouthful of blood mid-air as

What!

unable to believe what they were

divine grandmaster; he had punched Sebastian, but Sebastian was unharmed and instead sent Martin flying. The sheer strength was

I knew Mr. Wilder was a genius at pill refinement, but I never imagined his combat prowess would be

was in awe, and her eyes sparkled as she watched,

she had believed to be nearly invincible, would be so easily

so young, how can your strength be this overwhelming?" Martin gasped, struggling to comprehend the situation. His eyes

know

had said this earlier, everyone would have thought he was boasting. But

single move from Sebastian. To the rest of them, they weren't even worthy of being

his gaze toward Heather, who instantly paled. Terror was evident

I'm an apprentice of the Netherworld

With a flick of his wrist, Heather was unable to

a distance, but usually no further

pull her toward

by the

are you doing, Sebastian?" Heather asked, both angry and

Sebastian slapped her hard across the face and sneered. "What can you do now

"My mentor will never let you

"I thought you had some brains,

Heather asked while bristling with anger. Sebastian's cold laugh echoed. "Even now, you don't understand what kind of being you've provoked.

Even if your mentor Bertha were here, she wouldn't be able to save you because,

delusional! My mentor is one of the Grand Elders of the Netherworld Sect! She has unfathomable

her mentor, Bertha,

skill, ordinary people wouldn't pose a threat to her even with her memory loss. So now he had no reason to worry about

this father-daughter duo taste despair, bit

whispered, "Mr. Wilder, the Netherworld Sect is full of experts. They have five divine grandmasters, and Tyler's power is beyond comprehension.

just ants," Sebastian

don't underestimate them, Mr. Wilder," Hendrick

arrogance but confidence, confidence rooted in

of carrier pigeons and their giant birds that people could ride, they should

had passed, and still no

seems your mentor won't be coming," Sebastian

eyes. "Sebastian, you can't kill me. I'm the Netherworld Sect's once-in-a-millennium genius apprentice. If you kill me,

"If I were afraid, I wouldn't have let you call for help, nor would I be standing

the Netherworld Sect doesn't come after me, fine. But if they do, I'll just

destroying a powerful sect as casually as if he were talking

confidence was this? How strong did one have to be to

would have dismissed it as bluster, and not even credible

him severely injured

do you have any last words before

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

die."

me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then tossed me off a cliff ff thadn't been lucky, I

know I was wrong now. Please give me a chance to change. I'll devote myself to

gone into acting with those skills. Let's set the fact that you harmed

sent people after my godmother, had her beaten severely, and even tried to humiliate my wife.

my doing! It was Sean

lust. It had nothing to do with me,"

it all

but I don't believe he acted alone. If it wasn't her, then it must've been you." Sebastian turned

intent.

belongs to s

fear, Martin quickly denied, "It wasn't me!

Sebastian scoffed. "Well, it's definitely either one of you. So, you can choose who

trying to turn us against each other?

forcing them to choose would be

than simply

all, the survivor would live with the guilt

you one minute to decide. IfChapter

full of fear

to die, but he also couldn't

negotiate. Let us go, and just name your

I'll give you a

you just rob a

live comfortably for a lifetime. One million gold coins was

"If you're unwilling to pay one million, that's fine. I can just kill your daughter, and you

teeth, feeling as

large amount of gold, Sebastian only asked for

Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth

and left after

merciful, but because

followed Hendrick to the

Watson, I'd like to ask you for a favor," Sebastian

quickly replied, "Mr. Wilder, there's no need to be so formal. Just tell me what you

healed his wounds, which saved his life, but

Hendrick considered a

grade alchemist, with immeasurable strength to boot. Such a

help to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen,

artist,

woman in the picture

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

was hard not to admire a man as exceptional as

always been confident in herself, but after

the

her own

the circumstances and

worry, Mr. Wilder. I'll send people to find her immediately. I'm sure

stayed at the chamber,

to arrange for some people to take care of

to

first hand, Brork didn't

was completely subdued, with no thoughts

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

can't swallow

at Heather and asked, "Are you willing

is an outstanding

marriage today and then ask the Stonebrook family to deal with that little bastard!"

stepped out to

large numbers, bringing an abundance

a dignified middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one

old. Though his appearance was average, he had an impressive presence; this was Camden Stonebrook, the heir to the Stonebrook

Denzel, Mr. Camden, your arrival truly graces our humble Knott Estate," Martin said

"Mr. Knott, you're too kind. Please forgive our unannounced

for that; it's our honor. Please, come in." Martin led the father and son into

saying, "I've long heard that your daughter is as beautiful

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

"Camden, it's impolite to

quickly stood up, saying, "I'm sorry, Ms. Knott, I was being

bashful smile. She was not angry at all. In fact, she

one of the southern region's four major families. If Heather could become the young mistress of

access to the Stonebrook family's cultivation resources, her strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds,

place among the

Denzel smiled a

said, "My

Knott once not long ago,

at first sight for him.

lost

his appetite and many.

his father, I

Cóntent

was done speaking, he clapped his hands, and the

were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs,

pill box, though smaller,

box

truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880

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

cleanse the body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and

pills significantly improved their constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even helped

are you satisfied with the Stonebrook family's betrothal

very satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually,"

you agree

Camden is a remarkable man. For him to be interested in my daughter is an

inside. With the future title of daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family, who

settled on the wedding date, setting it for

provoked someone whose strength is

region, there aren't many people who could cause trouble

interjected, "It's a scoundrel named

commoner.

fell ill with a strange disease once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later, when

was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not just to reveal how despicable he is, but also to be upfront

you mind, we can call off the

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

Heather. I don't

you for understanding," Heather forced out a couple of

Sebastian seeing her

bringing it up herself, she hoped to

to marry him. But what I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but

soon as we got engaged, he demanded that

of woman and naturally refused him. He then tried to force himself on me, but luckily, I

in front of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares to bully

strong. Even my father couldn't defeat him," Heather

30 years old. How could he be

cultivators improve their skills, their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and

20s, but his real age could be

right. That brat's cultivation is at least at

age is definitely well over

"Isn't he just an early-stage divine grandmaster?

Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

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

Knott Estate, it was still far from

family background wasn't on par with the daughters of

her talents were remarkable. The Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level as Kaitlyn and the Netherworld

genius with boundless potential and unimaginable

beauty and talent compensated for her comparatively

engagement, many women felt envious and even jealous of Heather. After all,

who secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their hopes seemingly

mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't want her even if she was offered without

obtaining a million gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in

third stage of

wanted to stockpile pills now to boost the cultivation of those

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

and Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've

is for me, I assume?" Sebastian

nodded. "Yes, you're

saw through Martin's intentions-it was nothing more than an attempt

"Mr. Wilder, are

if I don't go, wouldn't I be letting them down?" Sebastian replied

both hate you to the core and their invitation is definitely not sincere it's

is right.

walking right

clowns. There's nothing to fear," Sebastian

so careless. know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has many powerful figures. If you go you're bound to be at a

Hendrick warned.

to .net

unmoved. "I appreciate your concern, but

just clowns. They're

If they dare provoke me,

ie

families in the southern region, even stronger than the Netherworld Sect. They shouldn't be

"Mr. Wilder, please listen

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

them

Sebastian and his group approached the entrance of Knott

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

is there something you need from me?" Sebastian asked. "Are you heading to

Sebastian nodded.

Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the banquet. Going there now is like

here just to tell me this?" Sebastian

flatter yourself. I just happened to run into you and thought I'd give

you to care so much about me. Could it be

scoffed

says so, then

Wilder. There's always hope as long as you're alive. With your talent, you're destined to become a peerless force in

mind is made up. No more advice, please," Sebastian

sighed and shook their heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to his doom. All they could probably do now was retrieve his body

atmosphere was festive and

the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by

main figures of the day, Heather was overjoyed. After all, by the end of today, she would be the future daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family-who would dare to

a woman both

had already been seen and touched by Sebastian So the only way to

Sebastian.

had been keeping tabs on Sebastian's

moment, "Mr.

Make sure he doesn't

able to get away, even if he sprouts

in satisfaction. "By the

But with the family's third

nodded again

Sebastian and his companions entered Knott

What's he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he spotted

was also taken aback. She had already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still showed up. Was

"Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I can't

smiled lightly and said, "This place isn't exactly a dragon's lair. Why wouldn't I dare to

you've

a mocking smile. "Brat, today next year will

"Don't say I didn't give you a chance. If you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out

me to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet,

mind?" Camden sneered. "I invited you here just to

He thinks that just because he came to

reputation. Mr. Camden would never let him live. I can't tell if this

Among all the people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done to her, seeing him in danger made her

and said, "Today is your engagement party. Killing someone might bring bad

"We cultivators don't care about such things. If you want to live today, the

laughed and his smile was

grew furious. "What are you laughing at, you

get it. There are so many good women out there. Why on earth did you choose

woman? You've got some nerve!" Camden fumed

This guy

live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now he's probably wishing for

Everyone nodded in agreement.

elder, Trey Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were

get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth.

been practicing

cultivation technique, one that

energy

day, shevited

into her

"Shut up!"

quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting nonsense and tarnishing my

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

course, I don't believe him. This

you have?"

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

just upset that I broke off the engagement with him, so he's trying to

said, "Don't worry. No matter what he says,

evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me off a cliff. If I hadn't been lucky, I wouldn't be standing here

laughed angrily. "To slander my woman right

me, you can have her checked.

it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be a joke if

guy has

long moment, and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he

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

everything

powerful aura that felt as vast and overwhelming

alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers said as their eyes filled

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

the early stage, whereas Septimus was a middle-stage divine grandmaster, significantly stronger

some sense in you, but you're a fool

taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep talking. Heather

way, I left a few scratch marks on her chest because I got a bit rough. They're probably

In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed by now, given a warrior's

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon

tricked, Heather was

Even now, you're spouting lies! I swear I'll cut out your tongue and feed

and he was infuriated by the Chapter

the four major families of the southern

in particular, was a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His

made his move, the pressure from his released aura

faces full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could do; they were

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

a resounding sound,

out a pained scream and staggered back

chased him down and grabbed Septimus by the

"What?"

middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been

strength was

shocked. Not long ago,

all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why would

fury. "I've really underestimated you. If you release Septimus now, I might leave your corpse

he's from the Stonebrook family! If you dare to kill him, you won't even have a grave to

his eyes filled with

a favor? I'll have him release Septimus, and in return, you spare

already noticed Kaitlyn from the start. Although her face was hidden, she had an undeniable allure

her even more enticing than he had imagined. He nodded

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

gouges out his own eyes, and breaks both

Camden, isn't gouging out his eyes and

offering this. This is my bottom line!" Camden

and whispered, "Didn't I warn you? Why did you

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

your strength was so formidable, but

The Stonebrook family

exceeds your imagination. Gouging out your eyes and breaking your hands

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

the habit of

know it's hard to accept, but

than to die.

but in the end, she only

than death. Rather than living worse than a dog, it was better to fight to

at least

"Septimus!"

members of the Stonebrook family erupted in

rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder,

I won't be satisfied until I

cripple his

need Camden's order. He was already walking toward

presence intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on the

cultivation must be truly unfathomable. He's probably at

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

He struck so quickly before; this is

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted,

immediately drew it

the blade resonated through the air, unleashing a wave

as though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their

the Godslayer Blade

Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with it, they

They hadn't expected Camden to

doomed now. With the added power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters

said to be

was Sebastian, empty-handed-what

closed her eyes, unable

resented the man who had taken her virginity,

preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian

him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was in danger—she simply didn't want to

Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't need

completely powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook

As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged

instant, the energy within a few miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere that weighed down on

weaker cultivation slumped to the ground

alive, so his sword's

strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out to grab the

with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique

the expected sight of blood and

"How is this possible?"

filled with shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as they

Blade with his bare hand! This is insane!" "What level

desperately channeled his energy, trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip.

calmly. With a slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go of the s go

he was

nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is

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

as he pointed at Sebastian. "You actually dared to

you think you can kill

and angry. "Sebastian, I'm warning you. I'm the heir

imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top experts in

really are made for each other," Sebastian

calling idiots? You're the idiot! Your whole family is!" Heather

you still dare to shout

plan to kill us?" Heather was

dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not just you, but everyone you care about will pay with

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

By the end,

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

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

He remarked, "You truly are full of yourself! Our family has

to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live. Otherwise, I guarantee you won't even have

in a grave, you won't be around

you dare!"

experts from the Stonebrook family around him as they were ready to flee at any

him with disdain. He took a step forward, releasing

weighed down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed to

struggled to remain standing, their

Kill him!" Camden commanded

terror, they had no choice but to

join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos

a wave 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

The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family

cake. The

was terrifying.

ground, and her

Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her

air, attempting to

shield the nervous clerk and decided to

trust nothing like this will ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through

absolutely," Elodie blurted, nodding so hard the tight

Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her

whim. Grateful, she offered a quick,

child, the

Jonathan, her posture unexpectedly shy. "Thank you," she

practiced smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly composed for a boy

thanking you," he replied,

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

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

all knew each ensemble Ivy had chosen started at well over ten thousand, yet this

around the card, uncertainty flickering

minor. A purchase of this scale required his guardian's

still did not understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult clothing, yet he trusted

expression. "Of course," she said, nearly breathless with

velvet hangers into satin-lined bags with practiced

showroom, the other employees watched, envy shining through their

could cover the down payment on a new car,

more.

precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared

Ivy guided

voice barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or

over eight million." s

her, Ivy would never have taken a

Jonathan said, firm as bedrock. "I'm

Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she finally

in disbelief. The wealthy, it seemed, spent money the way others breathed

for choosing us." Ivy presented the card with both hands, as though returning a

with matching courtesy. "Ms. Ivy, I truly appreciate

finally set the receipt

toward Ivy. With a flourish worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray wool

"Pass it on to whatever

across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's far

apairof

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

earlier, while paying the bill, Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast briefing about the ruckus that had erupChapter

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

reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did

wanted me to pop in and pick out a few outfits for Uncle

his own mind. Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best

Ms.

remembers to buy clothes for

darkened like

pinkie around Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty sure

the first fib, it was only because Vivian's eccentricity made anything

Nathaniel, Jonathan appeared more like an adult

never delegate adult shopping to a

"You've figured something

Jonathan blinked, performing

quiet breath. “When it comes to social-grade lying, you're still rough around the

so fast, and the

lashes lifting so his wide eyes could study every flicker

"Why would I be?" he

for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally direct in the way only children

mouth opened, then snapped shut.Am I showing it

exactly where did you pick up on

across your face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as if stating simple

a weight on his chest. If even a child could read

door stayed shut far

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

corridor, she almost collided with Jonathan

also noticed the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded with

have you two been? And

intent on inspecting

smoothly. "Holiday tokens,

so Nathaniel was patching the hole as

nice. I

bewildered. When have I

cleared his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed

the constipation story

I've been skimping on water lately," Jon

an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him into a full- bodied embrace that smelled of

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

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 body can

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

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

Cecilia had hugged him like

I'll be fine if I drink more water. It

child, obedient, courteous, eager to spare adults

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

the way surgeons announce

silent misery. Great, sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you could invent, you picked constipation. Now

Mommy, I don't need them,” he whispered,

for the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess he had

speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's

time they reached home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie,

embarrassed. If you're not sure how to use them,

suppositories, despair

he let Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his head so hard his hair whipped across

can manage on

every gesture brimming with pride that only

help pitying him. So young, already forced to endure the

to the bathroom with you," she said, voice low and gentle, as though sending him into

"Okay."

and bolted down the

the couch, Elliot lounged with a plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why, felt sweat break across his

he really constipated? He sure doesn't look it,"

fixed him with a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease your brother. He's having a hard enough time

a small hand against his chest, trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of

burst of cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on," she said, "let's

have to take tons of super-cool photos

bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to

little photoshoot ended, she pinged the piChapter

Queenie's departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in

of the boys chasing sunlight across

return, video-called often to check

little, life seemed to find

children be able to come back for a visit?"

so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side of the

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

can. Your grandpa and I will prepare every one of your favorite dishes," Bethany replied, her delight

aloud, chatted with Bethany for a good while longer, then finally ended the

and Elliot collapsed onto their beds, fast asleep

Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick

back against the couch, eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five minutes of

"Ceci."

in surprise. "What is

all we're doing today?"

don't follow. What do you mean?"

Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing," he

read the room. Something inside Nathaniel

lifted her face to his, worry eclipsing her earlier

closer, the scent of cedar from his freshly

she could

long arms swept

possessive

chest, as though staking

have

velvet-edged with gravel, every

breath fanned over her cheek. Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush

whisper-shouting, "Stop it, let me go! If Elliot or

atop her hair as if

other? They're not babies anymore. They should understand," he responded

babies? They're only

own," Nathaniel replied, the words

arched, genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left the country that

affirmative, then an idea lit behind his eyes. "Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and

"They're too little, Nathaniel. Besides, Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps

།

team to watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let him stay with Old Mr. Sinclair

pad of his finger brushing her

"Hmm?"

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

Her proud, composed husband was jealous of his

it. "Of course, the kids

a storm gathering behind the calm

Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the

blinked, stunned that she would dare make a break for it, then sprang up and covered the distance in long,

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

plenty of spare rooms in this house. Pick any

he slipped inside, scooped her up

turned, and darkness enveloped the

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

snow glare slicing

to find Nathaniel's face less than an inch away. She

finger over that faint roughness, then lower to the soft

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open, hazy with

drawing her even

I can't breathe.” Her voice came out in a whisper, pressed tight

hold by a fraction, closed his eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just a little longer." "It's

her best friends a full day of

his arms and mumbled, "Give me a few

how clingy he could be, warmth and weight wrapped around her like an oversized

you this attached? I never

mouth. "I was younger. Didn't know any

hair, dark

I have a busy day ahead," she said, trying to slip from his

the mall with your friends, that's all, right? No other

shook her head. "That's

asked, still unwilling to release

New clothes for Mom, and something nice for

tone carried a note of suspicion wrapped in playful

"Nope."

coat she bought yet this

the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat. “Fine.

the heaviness under the words but misread the cause. He just hates it when I leave too quickly. With that familiar assumption,

the door clicked shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like a weight on his ribs Sleep had scattered, and

through quiet hallways, and

1.

spirited Jon and Elliot off to RaiChapter

brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had even a sliver of sense,

truly believed that only a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had any chance

idiot with

face went pale, then burned red. He spun

trembled on the table. Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and

people, it was Alex-the outcast, the family fool-who stood up

girl. But seeing Sofina step

this

of you! From this moment on, Sofina will handle

The room fell silent.

she

his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin that

"Go on, Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag the

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

"You're the half-slave here, Alex -the real embarrassment of

is great enough that even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's dream—and

problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking your own grandmother's got

waved her hands fast. "No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's

being realistic-you're being a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment

Envious?" she snapped. "You're a fool if you

make this interesting. What if she does

arms. "Fine. You think I'm

heard the Baroness gave you that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is

teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want both of you out of the Wolfsbane

half-smile. "Then let's see who

in, "Count me in too!

her, raising a brow. "Alright.

arms, chin lifted. "I won't lose. But fine-I'll play along. What do you

half-slave, how about this—if you

burst out laughing. "Ha! You're really digging

"If you lose, I

he said calmly. "But if I win, you'll accept our

recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's official now. You'll have

said. "I

glance at them. She couldn't care less about their childish

to her was one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could actually secure that

She roared. "Sofina, you have three days to

glancing out the window. "You really think

"Trust? No.

"That's supposed to

want comfort, talk to someone who

bet on your

a brow. "You really

said. "It'll show who's got

"And what

"Then I'll finally fit right in with this

thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind

Alex drove the sleek black luxury car they'd won from Nikolaus-a machine so rare in Winchester that it turned

uneasily, watching the reflections glide across the car's polished hood, “we should return this car. It's too extravagant for us.

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

deputy of the Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother and mother

can."

frowned, glancing at him. "You really think

without looking away from the road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up.

anxious, half amused.

grin widening. "You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if

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

me luck," Sofina whispered

and walked around 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 you've got an insideron your

QUMS

her nerves eased. She wished she could

the shadow of the two-hundred-story tower and felt something

rose into the sky like a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old, fractured, scandal-scarred—could sit

partner with them was like a beggar asking

she'd promised her grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front of the whole house. There was

a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from

but tense, each waiting for their turn to be judged

The

all every one

of them was hono

the same thing: a coffaboration

are you doing here?" a

Heinrich standing

lips tightened the way a

sentence.

told you a thousand times-get this sort of woman away from my sight. How could you let 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

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

a security drone glided into

us to monitor was just shoved by a guest-he forced

me the

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

on his gloves, and strode out

gathering a pile of scattered papers.

he said quietly, helping her pick them

Heinrich. No matter what I say, he

gently

nothing serious," she

last sheet. "You know, you don't need to print

faintly. "Maybe. But I like the feel of paper. I

hand brushed his chest. "The

chuckled. "You

"You cooked for me, 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 all these

they walked back through the glass corridor

voice

"What the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I don't want you near

froze. The color drained

chain that still tied her

doesn't vanish overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if

himself between Sofina and

is Eden Group," Alex said. "You're a guest. You

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 your

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

Heinrich's face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a

Don't give him anything. He brings

extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you joined our

derisive snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place

tone tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone

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

gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you pretending to be one

of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I

forget your place. I'm Dietrich Wedell,

Human Resources. I can fire you anytime I

and beg for

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

Schiller is?