Under the Veil I Rule

Chapter 457: Chapter 483 Wang Hu Confirms His Love

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

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

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

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

Xiao Hong slightly frowned and became silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Xiao Hong lowered her head, rarely shy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She returned to her room and slammed the door.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Hang on," Sebastian stopped her.

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

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

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

find his way back as soon as

possible.

s

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

that

ghat

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

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

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

All these years, they had visited

many famous doctors and even

whonet

asked help of the

the help of the alchemist

from

fort

otherworld Sect, button

avail.

s

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

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

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

"The pill is very precious," Sebastian explained.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

As the largest commerce

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

dese after Sebas

Abigail

knew which ones he meant.

belongs to s

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

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

Spirit Gathering Formation.

Beneath the cauldron was magma,

which could save a lot of energy

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

Nourishing Pill. s

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Afterward, everything was quiet.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Hold it!" the guards immediately shouted harshly.

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

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

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

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

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

"Sebastian Wilder!"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

They quickly fell one after another.

"You're courting death!"

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

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

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

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

"Rely on him?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"The ones who should die are you

people! Release my wife

immediately, or I'll slaughter

everyone in knott Estate!"

wel

sebastian's voice was filled with

murderous intent. 's

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

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

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

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

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

།

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

shea

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

a terrifying killing intent erupted from his body.

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

At that moment, Sebastian suddenly moved, grabbiChapter 653

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"You deserve to die!"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She now has

a real chance of becoming

20

grandmaster before she turns 18." s

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

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

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

"Hold it!"

།

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

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

striding forward, accompanied by a young girl.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

roared in fury as he charged toward Sebastian.

"The city lord himself is stepping in!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Everyone was astonished. Divine grandmasters were the most formidable beings

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

However, such powerful individuals were exceedingly rare.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hendrick quickly countered with a punch of his own.

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

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

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

Vol

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Almost instantly, Sebastian moved aside.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"As you wish!" Sebastian responded. He continued to grab Heather by the neck

and throw her over 30 feet away. She landed heavily on the ground, coughing up a mouthful of blood.

Heather was furious, nearly

exploding with rage. She struggled to her feet and shouted, "Father, don't just kill him outright! I want to torture him slowly for days. Only then will be satisfied!" s

Martin glared at Sebastian and said coldly, "You heard Heather. I'll first cripple your cultivation, then break your limbs. After that, Heather can take her time tormenting you to death!" s

Sebastian stood with his hands behind his back, his face full of disdain. "You're just an ant, yet you dare to boast in front of me. How ridiculous."

"Then, I'll show you the strength of this ant!" Martin roared, charging at Sebastian with incredible speed.Chapter 657

Martin was shocked and horrified. It felt as though his punch had struck an indestructible metal, making his fist go numb. He tried to retreat upon realizing something was terribly wrong,, but it was already too late.

Suddenly, a terrifying surge of energy erupted from Sebastian. With a deafening sound, the energy blasted Martin away.

He immediately spewed a mouthful of blood mid-air as his eyes filled with disbelief and fear.

What!

Everyone was stunned, unable to believe what they were seeing.

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

"What incredible power! I knew Mr. Wilder was a genius at pill refinement, but I never imagined his combat prowess would be so profound!" Hendrick exclaimed in awe.

Abigail was in awe, and her eyes sparkled as she watched, momentarily entranced.

believed to be

young, how can your strength be this overwhelming?" Martin gasped, struggling to comprehend the situation. His eyes were filled with terror as he stared at Sebastian.

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

had said this earlier, everyone would have thought he was boasting. But now, not a

from Sebastian. To the rest of them, they

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

I'm an apprentice of the Netherworld Sect. My mentor is

flick of his wrist, Heather was unable to resist and was suddenly

knew that a divine grandmaster could manipulate objects from a distance, but usually no further than 10 feet and not with heavy

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

by the

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

slapped her hard across the face and sneered. "What

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

had some brains, but it seems that

while bristling with anger. Sebastian's cold laugh echoed. "Even now, you don't understand

mentor Bertha were here, she wouldn't

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

pleaded for help from her

ordinary people wouldn't pose

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

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

ants," Sebastian replied

them, Mr.

wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence rooted

carrier pigeons and their giant birds that

and still no sign

your mentor won't be

I'm the Netherworld Sect's once-in-a-millennium genius apprentice. If you kill

I were afraid, I wouldn't have let you call

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

of destroying a powerful sect as casually as if he were talking

stunned-what kind of confidence was this? How strong did one

they would have dismissed it as bluster, and not even credible

witnessed him severely injured Martin in

last words before you

me. For the sake of the one night we shared as husband and wife, spare my life.

die."

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

truly know I was wrong now. Please give

with those skills. Let's set the fact that you

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

was Sean

by lust. It had nothing to do with me," Heather quickly tried to distance herself

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

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

intent.

belongs to s

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

definitely either one of you. So, you can choose who

turn us against

onlookers silently agreed, thinking that forcing

than simply

the survivor would

giving you one minute to decide. IfChapter

were full of fear and

was at a loss for words. He didn't want to die, but he also couldn't bear

maybe we can negotiate. Let us go, and just name your price- anything

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

million gold coins? Why don't you just rob a bank?" Martin

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

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

gritted his teeth, feeling as if his heart was

to the large amount of gold, Sebastian only asked for

after, Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100 thousand gold

his word and left

Martin and Heather-not because he was merciful,

Hendrick to the

I'd like to ask

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

grown even deeper. Sebastian not only healed his wounds, which saved his life, but also helped

that Hendrick considered a second chance

alchemist, with immeasurable strength to boot. Such a person was worth cultivating a good relationship

find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a

professional artist, his drawing was remarkably

in the picture your

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

trace of disappointment flashed in Abigail's eyes. It was hard not

herself, but after seeing the portrait,

the

matching her own

the circumstances and timing of Fressia's

send people to find her immediately.

at the chamber, waiting for updates. He

some people to take

to protect her in

terrifying power first hand, Brork

word of refusal. He was completely subdued, with no thoughts

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

just can't swallow this humiliation!"

"Are you willing to marry the Stonebrook's

"Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of

We'll settle this marriage today and then ask the Stonebrook family to

stepped out to

Stonebrook family had arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance

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

average,

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

said, "Mr. Knott, you're too

led the father and son into

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

shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left her, like they were practically glued to her

it's impolite to keep staring at Ms. Knott.

and quickly stood up, saying, "I'm sorry,

She was not angry at all. In fact, she felt

family was one of the southern region's four major families. If Heather could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would be like a shortcut

advance by leaps and bounds, making it

place among the

Denzel smiled a

"My

once not

love at first sight for

lost his

his appetite and many.

I

Cóntent

done speaking, he clapped his hands, and the servants immediately opened the

three boxes were filled with gleaming gold coins. They were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs,

smaller, contained dozens

880 thousand gold coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a

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

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

physical constitution, extend life, and greatly

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

said proudly, "Mr. Knott, are you satisfied with the

satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually,"

mean you agree to their

responded, "Of course. Mr. Camden is a remarkable man. For him to be interested in my daughter is an honor for

future title of daughter-in-law

wedding date, setting it for a year later. Martin then mentioned Sebastian

someone whose strength is formidable and who is

people who could cause trouble for

named Sebastian Wilder.

commoner.

with a strange disease once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help

he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm

can call off the

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

worry, Heather. I don't

Camden, thank you for understanding," Heather forced

about Sebastian seeing her naked.

it up herself, she hoped

to marry him. But what I never expected was that the

soon as we got engaged, he demanded that

and naturally refused him. He then tried to force

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

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

30 years old. How could he be stronger than

"As cultivators improve their skills, their lifespans increase. There are also

he's in his 20s, but his real age could be far

"That's right. That brat's cultivation is at least at the early pinnacle stage of diving grandmaster, strongerthan

real age is definitely

an early-stage divine grandmaster?

Camden's engagement spread quickly,

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

Knott Estate, it was still far from matching

upon reflection, it didn't seem that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the daughters

potential at five rings, placing her on

boundless potential and

her beauty and talent compensated for her comparatively

the news of their engagement, many women felt envious and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming

who secretly admired Heather,

mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything

coins from Martin, Sebastian invested

was to find Fressia, secure the third stage of the cultivation

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

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

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

One of them is

"Yes,

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

"Mr. Wilder, are

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

best if you don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core

is right. You mustn't go.

walking right

petty clowns. There's nothing to fear," Sebastian responded

careless. know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has many powerful

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your concern,

They're not worth

they leave me alone, fine. If

ie

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

listen to us and don't

cook up something else

them sooner

the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman suddenly blocked their

hiding her stunning beauty-it

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

Sebastian nodded.

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

to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with

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

me. Could it be that you've fallen for

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed

Wilder, if Ms. Gardner says so, then it's surely

you're destined to become a peerless force in the future. Just bide your

made up. No more advice, please," Sebastian said

to his doom. All they could probably do now

Estate, the atmosphere was festive and

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

of today, she would be the future daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family-who would dare to

beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning and neredibly talented was something that would inspire envy in countless

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

Sebastian.

had been keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements,

report just at that moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian

Make sure he doesn't escape," Camden

be able to get away, even if he

"By the way, has my

ran into some issues and likely won't make it today. But with the family's third elder and the seventh elder here, dealing with that brat will

again in

and

doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he

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

bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I can't

isn't exactly a dragon's

snorted coldly. "Stop playing dumb. Since you've come

wore a mocking smile. "Brat, today next year will be your

If you kneel down, admit your

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

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

that just because he came to

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

people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn

looked at Camden and said, "Today is your engagement party.

care about such things. If you want to live today, the only way is to

and his smile was

"What are

There are so many good women out there. Why on earth

woman? You've got some nerve!" Camden

it. This

a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott?

Everyone nodded in agreement.

seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking

calm and unbothered. "Mr. Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth.

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to

day, shevited me

Estate, lured me into her room,

"Shut up!"

turned pale and quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop

Camden, he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You

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

you

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

that I broke off the

"Don't worry. No matter

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

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

believe me, you can have her checked. If I'm lying, you can do with me as you wish," Sebastian

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

has

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

around and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth

Heather, Camden planned to verify everything

as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it hard

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

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

Septimus was a

He smirked mockingly and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're a fool

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

by the way, I left a few scratch marks on

and instinctively covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed by now, given a warrior's

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing she

tricked, Heather

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

he was

one of the four major families of the southern

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

his move, the pressure from his released aura alone

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

neck. Just as it

a resounding sound, Septimus' arm shattered

out a pained scream and staggered back in

movement, Sebastian chased him

"What?"

erupted into chaos. Everyone was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated in a single

was

Not long ago, Sebastian had participated in

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

erupted in fury. "I've really underestimated you. If you release Septimus now, I might

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

approached Sebastian, his

do me a favor? I'll have him release Septimus,

the start. Although her face was hidden, she

her even more enticing than he had imagined.

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

and breaks both his

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

This is my bottom line!" Camden

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

death trap. Why shouldn't

"I didn't realize your strength was

The Stonebrook

Gouging out your eyes and breaking your hands

"Ms. Gardner,

not in the habit

hard to accept, but

miserably than to

say something, but in the end, she

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

at least Sebastian could

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook family erupted

rage as he shouted, "Sebastian

I won't be satisfied until I torture you

cripple his

truth, Trey didn't need Camden's order. He was already

footfall left a deep imprint on the hard

cultivation must be truly unfathomable. He's probably at the late-stage divine grandmaster

middle pinnacle stage of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a long sword

sword and immediately drew it from its sheath. A sharp, clear

the air, unleashing a wave of terrifying killing

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

the Godslayer

right. This is 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

stunned. They hadn't expected Camden to carry the Godslayer Blade with

Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters

a renowned magical artifact, said to be a

Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

unable to bear watching

taken her virginity, but after calming

by that old scoundrel 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

to know Sebastian a bit more, she even started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was in danger—she simply didn't want to see him

far surpassed hers, and he didn't need her

she felt completely powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her entire Netherworld

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

within a few miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere that weighed

slumped to the ground while

to capture Sebastian alive, so his sword's target

blade was about to strike, Sebastian

courting death!" Trey sneered, his expression filled with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with one's bare hand was

boom resounded as the blade made contact with Sebastian's palm. However, instead of the expected sight of

"How is this possible?"

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

bare hand! This is insane!"

his energy, trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's

exertion of his spiritual energy,

was jolted by

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

mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a

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

"Either kill or be killed. If you think you can kill me, I can also kill you. It's

afraid and angry. "Sebastian, I'm warning you. I'm the heir to the Stonebrook family. Do you dare to

masters of

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

idiots? You're the idiot! Your whole family is!" Heather shouted angrily at

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

to kill us?" Heather was

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

clowns. If you send one person to me, I'll kill that person. If you send two, I'll kill both of them. If you send a whole army, I'll wipe them out. If your entire family comes at me, I'll exterminate every last

louder as he spoke. By the end,

No one could believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring his

that he

yourself! Our family has stood strong for over

my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps

up in a grave,

dare!" Camden

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

at him with disdain. He took a step forward, releasing an

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

to remain standing,

him!"

grandmasters from the Stonebrook family were filled with terror, they had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting

Instead, he

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

very shocked. The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped out

The sheer ease

was terrifying.

collapsed to the ground, and her

rushed toward Heather. He grabbed

air, attempting to escape.Chapter

forward to shield the nervous clerk and decided to let the matter drop, choosing mercy over further

this will ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet

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

did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her

Grateful, she offered a

stepped between danger and the child,

posture unexpectedly shy. "Thank you," she murmured, sincerity softening every line of

answered with a small, practiced smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly composed for a boy his

should be the one thanking you,"

and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added, "Every outfit you

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

over

around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she sought

this scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel gave a single, calm nod. "Wrap

wanted an entire rack of adult clothing, yet he

expression. "Of course," she

from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags with

showroom, the other employees watched, envy shining through

this large could cover the down

more.

why Jonathan was buying, no

guided Nathaniel

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

over eight million." s

never have taken a job at

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

gaze flicked to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card through the polished

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

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

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

clerk finally set

pivoted toward Ivy. With a flourish worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the mannequin.

on to whatever gentleman keeps you

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

apairof

spoke in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket

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

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

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

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

of his own mind. Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best friend would never

once, expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts

Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but

darkened like

a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty sure that one

first fib, it

more like an adult

never delegate adult

figured something out,

Jonathan blinked, performing innocent

comes to social-grade lying, you're still rough

expected to be exposed so fast, and the realization sent a tremor of

exhaled a theatrical sigh. “Are you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes

rolled his shoulders back and forced a civil smile. "Why would I be?"

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

mouth opened, then snapped shut.Am I

cleared his throat. “And exactly where did you

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

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

door stayed shut far too

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

corridor, she almost collided with

behind them, arms loaded with shopping bags bulging

you two been? And what on

intent on inspecting the loot,

he said smoothly. "Holiday

had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel

well, a heads-up would have been nice. I

Jonathan gaped, utterly bewildered. When have I ever

throat and shot Jonathan a

the constipation story on his

guess I've been skimping on

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

right? You're

word confirmed aloud, Cecilia's chest pinched. Only a woman who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how

his cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly

never imagining the confession would buy him this long-lost

been ages since Cecilia had

fine if I drink more water.

been the model child,

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

gravity, the way surgeons

Of all lies you could invent, you picked constipation. Now

them,” he whispered, the

the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess

and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's worth of

gate like a summoned genie,

If you're not sure how to use them,

plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like a stone

anywhere near this particular battlefield.

can

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

forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation.

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

"Okay."

box like contraband and bolted down the hallway toward the

sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why, felt sweat break across

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

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

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

subject with an exaggerated burst of cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on,"

to take tons of

One by one, she handed them

ended, she pinged the

Queenie's departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the

of her life, including short clips of the boys chasing

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

seemed to find its

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

knew Cecilia now belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side of

decided. We'll come right after the New Year to

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

a good while longer, then finally ended the

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

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

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

"Ceci."

surprise. "What

this all we're doing today?"

don't follow. What do you mean?" Confusion knitted

clouded Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing," he

room. Something inside Nathaniel was storming, evident from the

her face to his, worry eclipsing her earlier cheer.

single step closer, the scent of cedar from his freshly pressed

could

long arms swept out

swift, possessive

though staking

really have

gravel, every syllable vibrating through

her cheek. Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened as she tried to

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

chin settling atop her hair as if

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

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

was seven when I moved overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low, laced with a faint,

her irritation. "You

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

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

།

for Jonathan, let him stay with

a hand, the pad of his finger brushing

"Hmm?"

a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like I'm dead last

proud, composed husband was jealous

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

a storm gathering behind the

down the hallway, bare feet whispering

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

the bedroom and tried to swing the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice low

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

gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her

latch clicked, the deadbolt turned,

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

came in a burst of white light, snow glare slicing through

find Nathaniel's face less than an inch

finger over that faint roughness, then lower to the soft curve of

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open,

awake?” he murmured, drawing her even closer until

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

and sighed. "Stay.

friends a full

arms and mumbled, "Give me a

clingy he could be, warmth and weight wrapped around

when were you this

his mouth. "I was

hair, dark strands springing up

I need to get moving. I have a busy day ahead," she said, trying to slip from his

"Ceci, after you hit the

her head. "That's

asked, still unwilling

and something nice for Grandpa and

note of suspicion

"Nope."

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

the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose,

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

the ceiling until the silence felt like a weight on his ribs Sleep had

quiet hallways, and

1.

Jon and Elliot off to RaiChapter

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

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

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

burned red. He spun toward

humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix

Alex-the outcast, the family

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

this one

Every last one of you! From this moment on, Sofina will handle the Eden Group

The room fell silent.

worry, Grandma," she

his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin that

sneer. "Go on, Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you

worth a thousand of you. She's fighting to lift this family up, while you bury it

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

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

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

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

"No, you're not being realistic-you're being a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's

snapped. "You're a fool

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

I'm scared? Name your terms,

main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is ours foever. You move into our home,

twitched, "Deal," she said through clenched teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want both

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

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

a

her arms, chin lifted. "I won't lose.

how about this—if you lose,

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

said. "If you lose, I want you to divorce

I win, you'll accept our marriage- no

"You really think you can win this? I've already recorded the bet and sent

he said. "I like it when everyone

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

one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could actually secure that collaboration with the

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

the window. "You really think Grandma trusts me with the

"Trust? No. Desperation?

look. "That's supposed to make me feel

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

"Hey, at least I bet on your victory.

arched a brow. "You really

said. "It'll show who's got

"And what if

fit right in

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

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

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

"Maybe it's too fancy for a gardener like

Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare buy you one, so

can."

glancing at him. "You

It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this

half anxious, half amused. "I wish

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

Group's towering headquarters, its glass walls gleaming in

luck," Sofina whispered as the car

your luck's already doubled," he said

QUMS

moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could carry that same

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

god. The idea

to partner with them was like a beggar

accepted the challenge in

pace. The lobby felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all dressed in tailored

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

The sight said

all every one

of them was hono

thing: a

on earth are you doing here?" a voice

found Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim,

like hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way

sentence.

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

hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group. You're not worthy-none of yoChapter

Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone

you asked us to monitor was just shoved by a guest-he forced her out into

me the footage," Alex

Heinrich's hand clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging

his collar, pulled on his gloves, and strode

the floor, gathering a pile of scattered papers. He knelt beside

he said quietly, helping her pick them

shook her head, frustrated. "It's Heinrich. No matter what I say,

asked, gently lifting her chin, checking for

serious,"

you don't need to print everything. The digital

the feel of

his chest. "The same way I

chuckled. "You really are

she said softly. "You cooked for me, you looked at me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes I think

teased each other as they walked back through

a voice

forward. "What the hell are you doing here? I told you to

froze. The color drained

chain that still tied

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

placing himself between Sofina

"You're a guest. You have

gardener telling me how to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like a king. Where's your manager? I

low, sharp laugh. "Keep dreaming. You're not a

Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said

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

resources, hurried over and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at

out a derisive snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve

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

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

turned and spotted Alex in his Eden Group gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you pretending to be one of

in this two-hundred-floor building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt officially registered, the security androids wouldn't have given

seem to forget your

can fire you anytime I want. Now, you've

Kneel and beg for his

firm. "Why should I? He's the one who tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't even belong to

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

he's not joining?" Alex asked

your respect. You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I make sure you

calmly, shaking his

be fired if you don't!"

a long time. Just kneel and bow three times, and maybe I'll let you keep

kneel to me. Three kowtows, then maybe I'll let you stay in this

by the rising tension. Laughter

up to Heinrich? The man really

"That gardener's got

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder

smirked and turned to

for my attention,

husband's a fool who doesn't

Three bows, and

hand tightened around Alex's arm,

everyone in

have

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

s

him tighter

soft but steady. "Let me handle

She met his eyes. "Trust

Sofina stepped forward

as a boil. "You hit me, bitch-" He spat the

curse.

name do you think

dare you strike Mister Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her, give her twenty lashes,

hustled Heinrich upright, supporting him with a hand

lashes. She won't be standing after that her flesh will tell the

a

Dietrich. "You'd better cancel that order,"

sneered. "The one who'll get hurt is

communication bracelet. "Security — attend.

his head. "I

began

hit Heinrich," someone

Heinrich's

her!" another voice

Group security unit glided forward and ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment,

flagged a threat to her, an alert raced