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."

responded. He continued to grab Heather by

30 feet away. She landed heavily on the

Heather was furious, nearly

struggled to her feet and shouted, "Father, don't just kill him outright! I want to torture him slowly for days. Only then will

"You heard Heather. I'll first cripple your cultivation, then break your limbs. After that, Heather can take her time tormenting you to

disdain. "You're just an ant, yet

I'll show you the strength of this ant!" Martin roared, charging

felt as though his punch had struck an indestructible metal, making his fist

surge of energy erupted from Sebastian. With

mid-air

What!

was stunned, unable to believe what they were

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

a genius at pill refinement, but I never imagined his combat prowess

her eyes sparkled as she

with fear. She never expected that her father, whom she had believed to be nearly

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

is of no consequence to you. All you need to know is that you are nothing but ants in

would have thought he was boasting. But now, not a

move from Sebastian. To the rest of

who

"I'm warning you. I'm an apprentice of the Netherworld Sect. My mentor is Bertha Erikson! If you dare to touch

his wrist, Heather was unable

objects from a distance, but

over 15 feet away, and Sebastian still managed to pull her toward him effortlessly. This

grabbed Heather by the neck once

you doing, Sebastian?" Heather asked, both angry and terrified.

and sneered. "What can you do now

mentor will never

gave a mocking smile. "I thought you had some brains, but it seems that you're

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

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 power andChapter

from her

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

determined to make this father-daughter duo taste despair, bit by

have five

ants," Sebastian

underestimate them, Mr. Wilder," Hendrick

It wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence

Knott Estate. With the speed of carrier pigeons and their giant birds that people could ride, they should

two hours had passed, and still no sign

your mentor won't be coming," Sebastian

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

wouldn't have let you call for

after me, fine. But if

of destroying a powerful sect as casually as if he were

kind of confidence was this? How strong

they would have dismissed it

had just witnessed him severely injured Martin in a single

have any last words before you die?"

to her knees before Sebastian. "Sebastian, please don't kill me. For the sake of

die."

steal my energe essence, and marrow and then tossed me off

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

skills. Let's set the

had her beaten severely, and even tried to humiliate

my doing! It was Sean acting on his

It had nothing to do with me," Heather quickly tried to distance herself from

can vouch for her. When it all happened, Heather was

her, then it must've

intent.

belongs to s

Martin quickly denied, "It

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

trying to turn us against each other? How vicious!" Martin

that forcing them to choose

simply

all, the survivor would live with

giving you one minute to decide.

full

for words. He didn't want to die, but he

we can negotiate. Let us go,

I'll give you a chance. I want one

gold coins? Why don't you just

gold coins were enough for someone to live comfortably for a lifetime. One million gold coins was

that's fine. I can just kill your

I'll pay!" Martin gritted his teeth, feeling as if his

to the large amount of gold, Sebastian only asked

long after, Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each

and left

intended to kill Martin and Heather-not because he was merciful, but because he wanted

Hendrick to

to ask you for a

there's no need to be

not only healed his wounds, which

that Hendrick considered a second chance

least a second grade alchemist, with immeasurable strength to boot. Such a person

find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then drew an

a professional artist, his drawing was

in the picture your wife?"

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

in Abigail's eyes. It was hard not to admire a man as exceptional

been confident in herself, but after seeing the portrait,

in the drawing

her own

circumstances

people to find her immediately. I'm sure we'll have news soon,"

chamber, waiting for updates.

some people

Brork to

witnessed Sebastian's terrifying power first hand, Brork didn't dare to

refusal. He was completely subdued, with no thoughts

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

I just can't swallow

asked, "Are you

"Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of course I'm

marriage today and then ask the Stonebrook family to

father and daughter then stepped out to greet

family had arrived in large

the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses

a young man of about 26 years old. Though his appearance was average, he

Mr. Camden, your arrival truly graces our humble

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

led the father and son into the sitting room and had them

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

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

it's impolite to keep staring at

his daze and quickly stood up, saying, "I'm sorry, Ms. Knott,

not angry at all. In fact, she

the young mistress of the

strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only a matter

place among the four

Denzel smiled a

"My son

not long ago, and

first sight for him.

lost

his appetite and many.

his father, I became anxious, soove brought him here to

Cóntent

Denzel was done speaking, he clapped his

box of jewelry, a box of

though smaller, contained

betrothal gifts include 880 thousand gold coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a box of premium medicinal

the Stonebrook family had truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880 thousand, which was

internal consumption was not enough, making them extremely scarce in the market. When Martin and Heather heard

improve physical constitution, extend life,

their constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even helped them

Knott, are you satisfied with the Stonebrook

satisfied. Extremely satisfied,

that mean you agree to

to be interested in my daughter is an honor for us.

was overjoyed inside. With the future title

quickly settled on the wedding date, setting it for a year later. Martin

we've recently provoked someone whose strength is formidable

In the southern region, there aren't many people who could cause trouble for you. Who might this person be?"

named Sebastian Wilder. He's just

commoner.

disease once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me.

time, I was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not just to reveal how despicable he

can call off

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

don't mind. It

you for understanding," Heather forced

was part of her clever strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the Stonebrook family's resources, they

up herself, she hoped

marry him. But what I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but a beast. He's

soon as we got engaged, he demanded that I sleep

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

front of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares to bully my woman will die

Camden, that scoundrel is very strong. Even my

years old. How

improve their skills, their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and pills that extend

he's in his 20s, but

least at the early pinnacle stage of diving grandmaster, strongerthan

real age is definitely well

just an early-stage divine grandmaster?

of Heather and Camden's

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

decent status as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it was still far from matching the

that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the daughters of the four

five rings, placing her on

boundless

compensated

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

secretly admired Heather, were

it no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else;

Martin, Sebastian invested in a vast amount of herbs for pill

the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by stealth

pills now to boost the cultivation of those around

process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest.

getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate.

of them is

nodded. "Yes,

immediately saw through Martin's intentions-it was nothing more than an attempt to use the Stonebrook

asked, "Mr. Wilder, are

if I don't go, wouldn't

quickly said, "Mr. Wilder, I think it's best if you don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their

father is

walking right into their

just a bunch of petty clowns. There's nothing to fear,"

you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has many

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your concern, but

clowns. They're not

alone, fine. If they dare provoke me, I'll

ie

family is one of the four major families in the southern region, even stronger than the Netherworld Sect. They shouldn't be underestimated

listen

avoided. If they're out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next

better to confront them sooner

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

dressed in a colorful gown, with a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was

need from me?" Sebastian asked. "Are

Sebastian nodded.

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

to tell me this?" Sebastian asked

just happened to run into you and thought I'd give you a friendly warning,"

expect you to care so much about me. Could it be that

Kaitlyn scoffed and turned

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

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

No more advice, please," Sebastian

thinking Sebastian was marching to his doom. All they could probably do now

Knott Estate, the atmosphere was festive and

powerhouse, the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending Korbin and his

the 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 cross

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

seen and touched by Sebastian So the only

Sebastian.

keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and his subordinate

moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian has

Lock down all the exits once he enters. Make sure he doesn't escape,"

Mr. Camden. Everything is in place. He won't be able

in satisfaction. "By the way, has my

make it today. But with the

nodded again in

Sebastian and

Korbin exclaimed

the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still

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

Since you've

"Brat, today next year will be your

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

I came here to

invited you here just to kill you. You're

thinks that just because he came to congratulate the couple, Mr.

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

present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had

Camden and said, "Today is your engagement

want to live today, the only way is to do as I

laughed and his smile

immediately grew furious. "What are you laughing at, you

and said, "Mr. Camden, I really don't get it. There are so many good women out there. Why on earth did you choose someone

my woman? You've

lost it. This guy

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They

out. I was simply speaking the

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

energy

day, shevited

into her room, and tried

"Shut up!"

Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting

"Mr. Camden, he's just slandering Heather on purpose.

responded, "Of course, I don't believe him. This guy has slandered my woman-this is

you have?" Camden

finish what I was saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me, but

spouting nonsense!" Heather quickly turned to Camden and said, "Camden, he's lying! He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with him,

worry. No matter what he says, I

drugged me that day, I couldn't resist and ended up sleeping with her. But what I didn't expect was that she was using an evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me off a cliff.

my woman right in front of me... you've got some

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

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

quickly chimed in, "Camden, this guy has ulterior

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

Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or not,

Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as soon as

felt as vast and overwhelming as the sea,

the power of a divine grandmaster? Just the aura alone is enough to make me

experts like Korbin and Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they were also divine grandmasters, there were clear

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

you had some sense in you, but you're a fool Youre allowing this malicious woman to manipulate you so

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

a few scratch marks on her

instinctively covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed by now,

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon

tricked, Heather was

you're spouting lies! I swear I'll cut out your tongue and feed it to

wasn't a fool, and he

major families of

middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power was

the pressure from his released aura alone made it hard for anyone nearby to

with faces full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was

Just as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered, reacting

sound, Septimus' arm shattered

pained

him

"What?"

erupted into chaos. Everyone was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage

strength was beyond

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

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

"I've really underestimated you. If you release Septimus now, I

and enraged, and she yelled, "Sebastian, he's from the Stonebrook family! If you dare to

approached Sebastian, his eyes filled

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

from the start. Although her face was hidden, she had an undeniable allure that piqued his

close distance, Camden found her even more enticing than he had imagined. He nodded and said,

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

and breaks both

isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking his hands a bit

This is my bottom line!"

Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I warn

isn't some death trap. Why shouldn't I

didn't realize your strength was so

The Stonebrook

your imagination. Gouging out your eyes and breaking your hands is the best outcome I

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

not in the habit of

know it's hard

miserably than to die. IfChapter

say something, but in the end, she only gave

for a strong person, losing both eyes and hands was a fate worse than death. Rather than living worse than a dog, it was

slim, at

"Septimus!"

of the Stonebrook family

as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder,

won't be satisfied until I torture you

his

was already walking toward Sebastian, his aura growing

intensified. Every footfall left

powerful aura. Trey's cultivation must be truly unfathomable.

stage of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability to

Sebastian's cultivation is? He struck so quickly

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Camden shouted, tossing a long sword to

immediately drew it from its sheath. A sharp,

resonated through the air, unleashing a wave of terrifying

temperature seemed to plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their hearts were quickly

the Godslayer Blade of

roamed the world with this sword, and with it, they rarely met an equal. As long as one wields the Godslayer Blade, their

stunned. They hadn't expected Camden to

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

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

Sebastian, empty-handed-what

unable to bear

the man who had taken her virginity, but after calming down and reflecting, her hatred had

instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had

him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he

strength far surpassed hers,

ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her entire

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

miles surged violently, creating

cultivation slumped

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

blade was about to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out to

try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with one's bare hand

resounded as 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

"How is this possible?"

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

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

trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength, but it didn't budge an

it over," Sebastian said calmly. With a slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let

he was

nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not bad. From now on,

anger and panic, clenching his

His finger trembled as he pointed at Sebastian. "You actually dared to kill two of our family's elders! Do you have a

think you can

"Sebastian, I'm warning you. I'm the heir to the Stonebrook family.

are filled with masters of unparalleled skill.

of idiots. You two really are made for each other," Sebastian said

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

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

You really plan to kill us?" Heather was suddenly

dare to kill me, our family will never let you go.

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

as he spoke. By the end, his voice was

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

thought that he was lying. However, after witnessing Sebastian's terrifying strength, everyone was very

are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over a thousand years, with

come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might

end up in

you dare!"

He gathered all the experts from the

disdain. He took a step forward, releasing an overwhelming

force weighed down on everyone present. Those below

grandmasters struggled to remain standing, their

Kill him!" Camden commanded

filled with terror, they had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting their teeth,

the fray. Instead, he used the

a tremendous energy burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent flying. Before they even

shocked. The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped

of cake. The

was terrifying.

and her face

Heather. He grabbed her by

into the air, attempting to escape.Chapter

to shield the nervous clerk and decided to let the matter

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

absolutely," Elodie blurted, nodding so hard the tight bun

Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her limbs

else's whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful glance first to

between danger and the child, the day would have ended

her posture unexpectedly shy. "Thank you,"

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

I should be the one thanking you,"

out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added, "Every outfit you brought me earlier,

clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened,

well over ten thousand, yet this

card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she sought

A purchase of this scale required

why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult clothing, yet he

"Of course,"

velvet

watched, envy

commission this large could cover the down payment on a

more.

precisely why Jonathan was

Ivy guided Nathaniel

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

over eight million." s

her, Ivy would never have taken a job at a

necessary," Jonathan said, firm as bedrock. "I'm buying

no objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card through the

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

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

Ivy, I truly appreciate

finally set the

a flourish worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the mannequin. "Consider this my gift,

"Pass it on to whatever gentleman keeps you company."

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

apairof

Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you ever hit a rough patch, come to me—no

paying the bill, Jonathan had delivered a

silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and ribbon-tied shopping bags that bumped against their

a downward glance at Jonathan, who still wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh,

in and pick out a few outfits for Uncle Zachary. This

Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best friend would never check up on this, so

once, expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy

to buy

darkened like a sky before

"Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty

it was only because Vivian's eccentricity made anything

more like an

would never delegate adult shopping to

gaze sharpened. "You've figured

blinked, performing

breath. “When it comes to social-grade

exposed so fast, and the realization

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

and forced a civil smile. "Why would I be?" he countered, voice calm yet

none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally

opened, then snapped shut.Am I

his throat. “And exactly where did you pick up

printed across your face, Dad.” Jon

weight on his chest. If even a child could read him, how had Cecilia never noticed? She really doesn't care,

restroom door stayed shut far too

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

she almost

the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded with shopping bags bulging

you two been? And what on earth is

on inspecting

gifts,” he said smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing

painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was

been nice. I was starting to

When have I

his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding flashed

to carrying the constipation

I guess I've been skimping on water

flooded her eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him into a full- bodied

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

Only a woman who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and

cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly as a stovetop

merely confessed the problem, never imagining the confession would buy

ages since Cecilia had

I'll be fine if I drink more

always been the model child, obedient, courteous, eager

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

with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce

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

but honestly, Mommy, I don't need them,” he whispered, the words nearly swallowed

boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the

opened her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and

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

not sure

plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like

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

I can manage

handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that only made

pitying him. So young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache

with you," she said, voice low and gentle, as though

"Okay."

and bolted down the hallway

watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why, felt

sure doesn't look it,"

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

against his chest, trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon

the subject with an exaggerated burst of cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on," she said, "let's try the outfits we just bought

you have to take tons of

bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed

the little photoshoot ended, she pinged the

departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but

them daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug, photos of uneaten cookies, and funny anecdotes typed

in return, video-called often to check on the children and

life seemed to find its

children be able to come back for a visit?" Bethany asked, voice

her priorities were

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

and I will prepare every one of your favorite dishes," Bethany replied, her delight practically shimmering through

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

Elliot collapsed

hush, holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping

couch, eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five minutes

"Ceci."

surprise. "What

doing today?"

you mean?"

eyes. "Nothing,"

plainly on his face. Cecilia finally read the room. Something inside Nathaniel was storming, evident from the faint tension at his jaw and the way

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

single step closer, the scent of cedar

she could speak

arms swept

swift, possessive

though staking a

have to

came out rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every syllable vibrating

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

squirmed, whisper-shouting, "Stop it, let me go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees

atop her

be awkward about two married people holding each other?

"Not babies? They're only six-maybe seven- years

on my own," Nathaniel

amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left the

lit behind his eyes. "Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to

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

།

a full team to watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let

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

"Hmm?"

leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for

proud, composed husband was jealous

course, the kids outrank you. I risked my life to bring them into this

storm gathering behind

arms and bolted down

would dare make a break for it, then sprang up and

the bedroom and tried to swing the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice low and teasing. "Why lock me out? Are you really sentencing

"There are plenty of spare rooms in this house. Pick any one of

gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her

clicked, the deadbolt turned, and darkness

wind hissed against the windows,

in a burst of white light, snow glare slicing through

Nathaniel's face less than an

finger over that faint roughness, then lower to the

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open,

her even closer until her

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

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

had promised her best friends a

"Give me a few more minutes.

realize how clingy he could be, warmth and weight wrapped around

were you this attached? I never noticed

tugged at his mouth. "I was younger.

his hair, dark strands springing up beneath her

get moving. I have a busy day

caught her hand again. "Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends,

shook her head. "That's it.

asked, still unwilling to release

clothes for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa and

carried a note

"Nope."

never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every hanger she touched, as if color and cut were matters of

by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose,

misread the cause. He just hates it when I leave too quickly. With that

once the door clicked shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the

through quiet hallways,

1.

Elena had spirited Jon and Elliot

that crap because you're an idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If

could think the Wolfsbane

an idiot with

He spun

on the table. Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then

Alex-the

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

this one had

cowards! Every last one of you! From this moment

The room fell silent.

worry, Grandma," she

flashing Beatrix a smug grin that

-try all you

this

Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle worker? That she's

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

he turned toward Beatrix, eyes narrowing, "you just sit here sneering. Tell me, Beatrix-what's your real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just

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

coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up as wisdom. And you know what they say:

she snapped. "You're a fool if you

mocking sound that filled the room. "Then let's make this

You think I'm scared? Name your

estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is

through clenched teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want both

Alex said, leaning back with a half-smile.

in too! If I win,

a brow. "Alright.

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

half-slave, how about this—if you lose, you kneel ten times and

really digging your own grave, loser! Fine-I'll

"If you lose, I want you

calmly. "But if I win, you'll

bet and sent the document

"I like it when everyone plays

She couldn't

was one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could

"Sofina, you have three days to negotiate and close the deal. That's all. Meeting

glancing out the window. "You

smirked. "Trust? No. Desperation?

him a look. "That's supposed

comfort, talk to someone who hasn't met this family." Sofina rolled

I bet on your victory.

brow. "You really think this

show who's got

arms. "And what if

right in

file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining.

luxury car they'd won from Nikolaus-a machine

car's polished hood, “we should return this

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

perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't

can."

glancing at him. "You really

our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll have a new mansion to park

half anxious, half amused.

That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for

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

me luck," Sofina whispered as

said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener of the Eden Group. That means you've got an

QUMS

a moment, her nerves eased. She wished

tower and felt something empty out inside her-like a room with the

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

with them was like a beggar asking a

in front of the whole house. There

a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all dressed in tailored suits and

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

The sight said

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration with power.

you doing

Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim, both

tightened the

sentence.

did. I don't understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed

to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal

up his Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided into the room, humming softly as its sensors locked onto

a guest-he forced her out into the entrance area.

the

arm, dragging her down the hallway while papers scattered across

straightened his collar, pulled on his gloves, and strode out

the floor, gathering a pile of scattered

her

No matter what I say, he just slips

asked, gently lifting her chin,

nothing serious," she

know, you don't need to print everything. The digital

I like the feel

brushed his chest. "The same way I

chuckled. "You really

I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes I think it'd be

they walked back through the glass

a voice cracked

I told you

The color drained from

invisible chain that

Her body tensed, eyes

forward, placing himself between Sofina and

this is Eden Group," Alex said. "You're a guest. You have no authority to

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

low, sharp laugh. "Keep dreaming. You're not a king- you're just

sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener. When I'm finished, you'll be out of

He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a

of human resources, hurried over and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you joined our efforts-Winchester's finest

here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out.

"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 and tried to

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

as↑

forget

I can fire you anytime I want.

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and beg for his

who tried to throw out another

have any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one of the brightest minds in Winchester-soon to