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

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

Heather was furious, nearly

and shouted, "Father, don't just kill him outright! I want to torture

at Sebastian and said coldly, "You heard Heather. I'll first cripple your cultivation, then break your limbs. After that, Heather can

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

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

his fist go numb. He

terrifying surge of energy erupted from Sebastian. With

blood mid-air

What!

to believe what they were

punched Sebastian, but Sebastian was unharmed and

but I never imagined his combat prowess

in awe, and her eyes sparkled

expected that her father, whom she had believed to be nearly invincible, would be so easily overpowered by Sebastian. His

can't be happening! How is it possible? You're so young, how can your strength be this overwhelming?" Martin gasped, struggling to comprehend the situation. His eyes were filled with terror as

you. All you need to know is that you are nothing but ants in

everyone would have thought he

grandmaster, couldn't even withstand a single move from Sebastian. To the rest of them, they weren't even worthy of being called

who instantly paled.

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

his wrist, Heather was unable to resist and was suddenly pulled toward

divine grandmaster could manipulate objects from a distance, but usually

15 feet away, and Sebastian still managed to pull her toward

Heather by the

Sebastian?" Heather asked, both angry and

loud smack, Sebastian slapped her hard across the face and sneered.

was both furious and panicked. "My mentor will never let you

a mocking smile. "I thought you had some brains, but it

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

if your mentor Bertha were here, she wouldn't be able to

of the Grand Elders of the Netherworld Sect!

her mentor, Bertha, while Sebastian

of skill, ordinary people wouldn't pose a threat to her even with her memory

this father-daughter duo taste despair, bit by

is full of experts. They have five divine grandmasters, and Tyler's power is beyond

ants," Sebastian replied

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

unfazed. It wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence

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

two hours had passed, and still no

your mentor won't be coming,"

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

afraid, I wouldn't have let you call for help, nor would I be

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

a powerful sect as casually as

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

they would have dismissed it as bluster, and

witnessed him severely injured

have any last words before you

Sebastian. "Sebastian, please don't kill me. For the sake of the one night we shared as husband and wife, spare my life. I'm still so

die."

a cold chuckle. "You still dare to mention our one night together? You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then tossed me off a cliff ff thadn't been

too young and made a terrible mistake in a moment of weakness. I truly know I was wrong now. Please give me a chance to change. I'll devote myself to you and serve you well

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

sent people after my godmother, had her beaten severely, and even

It was Sean

to do with me," Heather quickly tried to distance herself from the

for her. When it all happened, Heather was at the Netherworld Sect. She didn't know anything about

die, but I don't believe he acted alone. If it wasn't her, then it must've been you." Sebastian turned his gaze te Martin, his eyes

intent.

belongs to s

quickly denied, "It wasn't me! I had

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

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

agreed, thinking that forcing them to choose would be

simply killing them

the survivor would live with

I'm giving you one minute to decide. IfChapter

were full of

to die, but he also couldn't bear to lose his

Let us go, and

for a moment and said, "Alright. I'll give you a chance. I want one

just rob a bank?" Martin nearly jumped up

gold coins were enough for someone to live comfortably for

pay one million, that's fine. I can just kill your

his teeth, feeling as if

gold,

Sebastian ten

word and left after receiving

because he was merciful, but because he wanted to take his

followed Hendrick to

to ask

Wilder, there's no need to be

Sebastian had grown even deeper. Sebastian not only healed his wounds, which

was a debt that Hendrick

immeasurable strength

someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then

a professional artist,

is the woman in the picture your wife?"

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

eyes. It was hard not to admire

been confident in herself, but after seeing the portrait,

in the

matching her own beauty.

the circumstances and timing of Fressia's

send people to find her immediately. I'm sure we'll have

Sebastian stayed at the chamber, waiting for updates. He

some people to take

to protect her

power first hand, Brork didn't

was completely subdued, with no

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

swallow

"Are

is an outstanding man.

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

daughter then stepped out to

arrived in large

middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook

was a young man of about 26 years old. Though his appearance was average, he had an impressive presence; this was Camden Stonebrook, the heir to the Stonebrook

graces our humble

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

our honor. Please, come in." Martin led the father and son into the sitting room

to the point, saying, "I've long heard that your daughter is as beautiful as a goddess, and today I see the reputation

But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left her, like they were

it's impolite to keep

up, saying, "I'm sorry, Ms. Knott,

angry at all. In fact, she

If Heather could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would be like a shortcut to

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

might even secure a place among the four great ladies in

Denzel smiled a

"My son

not long ago, and

first sight for him.

he lost his

his appetite and many.

sleep over her. As his father, I became anxious,

Cóntent

Denzel was done speaking, he clapped his hands, and the servants immediately

coins. They were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs, a box of antique paintings, a box of aged

pill box, though smaller,

coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a

admit, the Stonebrook family had truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted

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

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

their constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even

you satisfied with the Stonebrook

very satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin quickly

you agree to their

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

With the future

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

someone whose strength is formidable and who

aren't many people who could cause trouble

a scoundrel named Sebastian

commoner.

once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later, when my illness flared

advantage of the situation and insisted I take off my clothes before he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not just to reveal

we can call off the engagement,

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

I don't mind. It wasn't

Camden, thank you for understanding," Heather forced

people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the

bringing it up herself, she hoped

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

engaged, he demanded that I

refused him. He then tried to force himself

don't worry. Anyone

that scoundrel is very strong. Even

he should be under 30 years old.

There are also herbs and pills that

look like he's in his 20s, but

cultivation is at least at the early pinnacle stage of diving grandmaster, strongerthan

is definitely well

he just an early-stage divine grandmaster? That's nothingChapter

of Heather and Camden's engagement spread

the southern region,

of Holton's Knott Estate, it was still far from matching the prestige of the

on par with the daughters of the four great families,

Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level as Kaitlyn and the Netherworld Sect's

boundless potential and unimaginable

her beauty and talent compensated for

envious and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the Stonebrook family's

who secretly admired Heather, were equally

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

invested in a vast amount of herbs for pill

third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by

wanted to stockpile pills now to boost the cultivation of those around him once he got

exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest.

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

them is for me, I assume?"

"Yes, you're

more than an attempt to use the

asked, "Mr. Wilder, are you planning to

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

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

father is right. You mustn't

walking right

clowns. There's nothing to

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

"I appreciate your concern,

They're

If they dare

ie

four major families in the southern

"Mr. Wilder, please listen

If they're out for revenge, they'll cook

better to confront them sooner

approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman suddenly blocked

with a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was Kaitlyn,

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

Sebastian nodded.

received word that the Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the banquet. Going there now

to tell me

to run into you and thought I'd give you a

much about me. Could it be that you've

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed and turned

says so, then it's surely true. Why

you're alive. With your talent, you're destined to

made up. No more advice, please,"

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

was festive and

Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to personally attend and offer

of today,

woman both stunning and

and touched by Sebastian

Sebastian.

had been keeping tabs on

report just at that moment, "Mr.

exits once he enters. Make sure he doesn't escape,"

worry, Mr. Camden. Everything is in place. He won't be able to get away,

in satisfaction. "By the way,

head ran into some issues and likely won't make it today. But with the family's third elder and

nodded again

and his

exclaimed in

She had already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still showed

her teeth. "Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts

said, "This place isn't exactly a dragon's lair.

playing dumb. Since you've come today, don't expect to

a mocking smile. "Brat, today next year

right after. "Don't say I didn't give you a chance. If you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out your own eyes, and break your own hands, I'll spare

came here to congratulate

of your mind?" Camden sneered. "I invited you here just to kill you. You're

to congratulate

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

Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed

engagement

If you want

laughed and his smile was full

furious. "What are you

don't get it. There are so many good women out there. Why on earth did you choose someone as despicable as

woman? You've got

This guy

he had done as Mr. Camden asked, he might have had a slim chance to live. But insulting

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth. You don't know how despicable

practicing

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

One day,

into her

"Shut up!"

and quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping,

Heather on purpose.

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

evidence do you

finish what I was saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me, but I wasn't interested in her at all,

"Camden, he's lying! He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with him,

and said, "Don't worry. No matter

continued, "After she 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. If

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

only telling the truth. Her first time was with me. If you don't believe me, you can have her

"Camden, don't listen to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be a

chimed in, "Camden, this guy has ulterior motives.

to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he wondered, "Could this guy be telling

around and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian

planned to verify everything as soon as the engagement banquet

a powerful aura that felt as vast and overwhelming as

make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers said as their

they were also divine

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

fear. He smirked mockingly and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're a fool Youre allowing this malicious woman

wish you were dead!" Camden snapped angrily. Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but I'll

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

and instinctively covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing;

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned.

tricked, Heather was

I swear I'll

and he was infuriated by the

major families of the southern region, with

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

from his released aura alone made it hard for anyone nearby

with worry. But there was little they could do; they were powerless

out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed he would

a resounding sound, Septimus' arm

Septimus let out a pained scream and staggered back in

chased him

"What?"

A powerful middle- stage divine

strength was beyond

shocked. Not long

at most a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or

you. If you release Septimus now, I might leave your corpse

enraged, and she yelled, "Sebastian, he's from the Stonebrook family! If you dare to kill him, you won't even have a grave to rest

also approached Sebastian, his eyes filled

stepped forward. "Mr. Camden, can you do me a favor? I'll have him release Septimus, and in

from the start. Although her face was hidden,

close distance, Camden found her even more enticing than he had imagined. He nodded and said, "I'll grant

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

own eyes, and breaks

Camden, isn't gouging out his eyes

kind for offering this. This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone that

turned to Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I warn

isn't some death trap. Why shouldn't

"I didn't realize your strength

Stonebrook family

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

smiled lightly and replied, "Ms. Gardner, I

the habit

know it's hard to

miserably than to

wanted to say something, but

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

the chances were slim, at least Sebastian could

"Septimus!"

of the Stonebrook family erupted in

was seething with rage as he shouted,

I won't be satisfied

cripple his

need Camden's order. He was already walking toward Sebastian,

forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall left a

must be truly

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

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

shouted, tossing a long sword to

caught the sword and immediately drew it from

blade resonated through the air, unleashing

the surrounding temperature seemed to plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen into an

this be the Godslayer Blade of the Stonebrook

our Stonebrook family's Godslayer Blade. Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with it, they rarely met an equal. As long as one wields the Godslayer Blade, their combat

hadn't expected Camden to carry

With the added power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand against Trey Defeating

said to be

here was Sebastian,

her eyes, unable to bear watching Sebastian's

who had taken her virginity, but after

instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted to save her. That all made his

more, she even started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she

had come to realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and he

powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook

he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It seemed as

the energy within a few miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere

cultivation slumped to the ground

so his sword's target was

the blade was about to strike, Sebastian

sneered, his expression filled with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with one's

contact with Sebastian's palm. However, instead of the expected sight of

"How is this possible?"

disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as they were

This is

Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength, but

of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go of the

if he was jolted

Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This

in a mix of anger and

at Sebastian. "You actually dared to kill two

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

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

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

pair of idiots. You two really are made for each

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

you still dare to shout at me. If that's not foolishness,

plan to kill us?" Heather

if you dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not just you,

that person. If you send two, I'll kill both of them. If you send a whole army,

voice grew louder as he spoke. By the end, his voice

No one could believe how brazen Sebastian

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

truly are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over a thousand years, with countless divine grandmasters and

my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps

in a grave, you won't be

you dare!" Camden

afraid of him. He gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as

him with disdain. He took a

instant, the oppressive force weighed down on everyone present.

grandmasters struggled to remain

him!" Camden

had no choice but to obey Camden.

the fray. Instead, he used the

of his hand, a tremendous energy burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent

The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped

of cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

the ground, and her face became pale

toward Heather. He grabbed her by

the air, attempting to escape.Chapter

Jonathan stepped forward 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

so hard the tight bun at the back

Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her

moment ago, her fate had dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful

stepped between danger and the child, the day would have ended

you," she murmured, sincerity softening

with a small, practiced smile-courteous, almost grown-up,

the one thanking you," he replied, voice clear

and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added,

thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened, and

at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended to buy the lot without

card, uncertainty flickering across her

of this scale required his guardian's

understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult clothing,

"Of course," she said, nearly breathless

hurried off, sweeping the garments from velvet hangers

showroom, the other employees watched,

the down payment on

more.

Nathaniel standing nearby and everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal

guided

register, she leaned down, voice barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain

over eight million." s

never have taken a job at

necessary," Jonathan said, firm as

Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she

at the numbers in disbelief. The

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

it with matching courtesy. "Ms. Ivy,

finally set

With a flourish worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray

on to

eyes widened, first in wonder, then 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,"

apairof

now, spoke in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If

had delivered a lightning-fast briefing about

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

at Jonathan, who still wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh, and asked, "What

Kennedy wanted me to pop in and pick out a

and Mom's best friend would never check up on this, so the story is

unreadable. "Your Ms.

sour note curled inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci never thinks of buying any

mood darkened like a sky before

and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me

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

appeared more like an

would never delegate adult shopping to

gaze sharpened. "You've figured

Jonathan blinked, performing

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

the realization sent a tremor of startled admiration through

sigh. “Are you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes could study every flicker on

smile. "Why

for me and Elliot, but none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally direct in the way

shut.Am I showing it

where

face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as

comment landed like a weight on his chest. If even a

door stayed shut far too

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

in the corridor, she almost

behind them, arms loaded with shopping bags bulging with

two been? And what

stepped forward, intent on inspecting the

smoothly. "Holiday tokens,

earlier excuse had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching the hole as

been nice. I was

bewildered. When

his throat and shot Jonathan

himself to carrying the constipation story on

I've been skimping on water lately," Jon

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

right? You're far too

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

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

problem, never imagining the confession would buy him this

had been ages since Cecilia

I drink more

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

Maybe

earnest gravity, the

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

whispered, the words nearly swallowed by the

the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for

and ordered suppositories plus

stood at the gate like a summoned genie,

you're not sure how to use them, I will

stared at the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like a stone in his

let Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He

can

can handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every gesture

him. So young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If

she said, voice low and gentle, as though

"Okay."

contraband and bolted down the hallway toward the

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

he really constipated? He sure doesn't look it," Elliot muttered around a

with a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease your brother. He's having a

little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of pitiful," he breathed, each

Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on," she said, "let's try

to take

she handed them to the

little photoshoot ended, she pinged the piChapter

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

wanting loneliness to take root, she sent them daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the

in return, video-called often to

seemed to find its

able to

so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side

I have decided. We'll come right after the New

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

for a good while

final outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their beds, fast

rare hush, holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick of a

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

"Ceci."

jerked in surprise. "What

this all we're doing today?" His question hovered,

you mean?" Confusion knitted

Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing,"

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

earlier

scent of cedar from his freshly pressed shirt drawing her

could

long arms swept

possessive

against his chest, as though staking a claim

really have to

every syllable vibrating through

across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened as she tried to

Elliot or Jonathan walks

her hair as if

people holding each other? They're not

babies? They're only six-maybe seven- years

Nathaniel replied, the

slipping past her irritation. "You left the country that

shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build some resilience. It'll give us more space for,

regained his health,

།

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

his finger brushing

"Hmm?"

fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like I'm dead last in that beautiful heart of

then did it click. Her proud, composed husband was

it. "Of course, the kids outrank you. I risked my

eyes darkened, a storm gathering behind

bolted down the hallway, bare feet whispering across the

dare make a break for it, then sprang up and covered the distance in long, powerful

and tried to swing the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice low and teasing. "Why

plenty of spare rooms in this house. Pick any one

strength. With a gentle shove, he

latch clicked, the deadbolt turned, and

hissed against the windows,

snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting the room in chilled

opened her eyes to find Nathaniel's face less than an inch away.

a finger over that faint roughness, then lower

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open, hazy with

he murmured, drawing her even closer until her breath mingled

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

sighed. "Stay. Just a little longer." "It's already nine.

best friends a full day of

only tightened his arms and mumbled, "Give me

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

this attached? I

tugged at his mouth. "I was younger.

dark strands springing up

I need to get moving. I have a busy day ahead,"

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

shook her head. "That's it.

he asked, still unwilling to

New clothes for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa and

His tone carried a note of suspicion wrapped in playful

"Nope."

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

gently pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat. “Fine. Go on,

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

bedroom felt even smaller once the door clicked shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like a weight on his ribs Sleep had

quiet

1.

and Elliot off to

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

only a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane

Wolfsbane," he called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with half

pale, then burned red. He spun toward

with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella,

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

to Sofina. She'd never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the old

least this

one of you! From this moment on, Sofina

The room fell silent.

Grandma," she said. "I'll do my

Beatrix a smug

Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag the rest of us down

She's fighting to lift this family up, while you bury it in arrogance and

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

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

Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you

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

slow and dangerous. "No, you're not being realistic-you're being a 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

she snapped. "You're a fool

that filled the room. "Then let's make this interesting. What if she does succeed? Want

"Fine. You think I'm scared?

Baroness gave you that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina

"Deal," she said through clenched teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want both of you out of the Wolfsbane family-for

a half-smile. "Then let's see who ends up

in, "Count me in too! If I

a brow. "Alright. But what happens if you

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

about this—if you lose, you

laughing. "Ha! You're really digging

"If you lose, I want

"But if I win, you'll

really think you can win this? I've already recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's

he said. "I like it

them. She couldn't care less

one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family

of this nonsense." She roared. "Sofina, you have three days to negotiate and close the deal. That's all.

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

smirked. "Trust? No. Desperation?

shot him a look. "That's supposed to make me

comfort, talk to someone who hasn't

at least I bet

"You really think

show who's got guts and who's

crossed her arms. "And

"Then I'll finally fit right in with this family-bad decisions and

sat in the passenger seat, clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent the

from Nikolaus-a

the car's polished hood, “we

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

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

can."

glancing at him. "You really think this

on our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll have

half anxious, half amused. "I

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

car descended toward the Eden Group's

Sofina whispered as the

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

QUMS

her nerves eased. She wished

felt something empty out inside

like a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old,

with them was like a beggar asking a banker to lend

her grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front of

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

voices low but tense, each waiting for their turn

The sight

all every one

of them was hono

thing: a coffaboration

are you doing here?" a voice

and found Heinrich standing

Katarina's lips tightened the

sentence.

clipped laugh. "I 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 attract attention," he hissed. "I told you I won't give you any. Leave this place." "Heinrich,” she said calmly. "I'm not here for you. I'm here for the Wolfsbane- for the

you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't

security

monitor was just shoved by a guest-he forced her out into the entrance area.

the footage," Alex

arm, dragging her down the hallway while papers

his collar, pulled on his gloves, and

Sofina crouched on the floor, gathering a pile of scattered papers.

said quietly, helping her pick them up.

matter what I say, he

gently lifting

nothing serious,"

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

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

chest. "The same way I like

chuckled. "You really are

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

as they walked back through

a voice cracked

doing here? I told

The color drained

saw it-the invisible chain that still tied her to

overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering,

forward, placing himself

Alex said. "You're a guest. You have no

I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like a king. Where's your manager? I want to speak

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

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

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

an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you joined our efforts-Winchester's finest in Al

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

courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone

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

never seen you before. Are you

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

"You seem to forget

fire you

Kneel and beg for his

who tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't

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