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.

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

How is it possible? You're so young, how can your strength be this overwhelming?" Martin gasped, struggling to comprehend the situation. His eyes

is of no consequence to you. All you need to know is that you are nothing but ants in my eyes, something easily crushed

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

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

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

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

his wrist, Heather

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

Sebastian still managed to pull her toward him effortlessly. This display of power was far beyond

Heather by the

you doing, Sebastian?" Heather asked, both angry and terrified. Her eyes betrayed her

sneered. "What can you

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

a mocking smile. "I thought you had

mean by that?" Heather asked while bristling with anger. Sebastian's cold laugh echoed. "Even now, you don't understand

were here, she wouldn't be able

of the Grand Elders

had pleaded for help from her mentor, Bertha,

ordinary people wouldn't pose a threat to her

make this father-daughter

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

ants," Sebastian

don't underestimate them, Mr. Wilder,"

It wasn't arrogance but

wasn't far from Knott Estate. With the speed of carrier pigeons and their giant birds that

two hours had passed, and still no sign

seems your mentor won't

I'm the Netherworld Sect's once-in-a-millennium genius apprentice. If you kill me, the Sect will never

have let

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

destroying a powerful sect as casually

around was stunned-what kind of confidence was this? How strong did one have to be

had heard him before, they would have dismissed it as bluster, and

had just witnessed him severely injured Martin

have any last

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

die."

wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then tossed me off a

in a moment of weakness. I truly know I was wrong now. Please

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

and even tried to humiliate my wife. Such malice-how

doing! It was Sean acting on his

to do with me," Heather quickly tried

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

then it must've been you." Sebastian turned his gaze te Martin, his

intent.

belongs to s

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

one of you. So, you can choose who will

turn us against

silently agreed, thinking that forcing them to choose

simply killing

the survivor would live with the guilt

giving you one minute to

were full

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

we can negotiate. Let us go, and

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

you just rob a

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

that's fine. I can just kill your daughter,

gritted his teeth,

amount of gold,

handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100

and left

Heather-not because he was merciful, but because he wanted to take his time to

Hendrick to the Holton Chamber of

Watson, I'd like to ask you for a

Wilder, there's no need to be so formal. Just tell

even deeper. Sebastian not only healed his wounds, which saved

that Hendrick considered a

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

help to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and

wasn't a professional artist, his drawing was remarkably

is the woman in the

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

was hard not to admire

always been confident in herself, but after seeing the portrait, her

the drawing

matching her

the circumstances and timing of

her immediately. I'm sure we'll have

the chamber, waiting

to arrange for some people

to protect her in

first hand, Brork didn't

word of refusal. He was completely subdued, with

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

I just can't swallow

at Heather and asked, "Are you willing to marry

without hesitation, "Mr. Camden is an outstanding man.

ask the Stonebrook family to deal with that little

then stepped out

large numbers, bringing an abundance of

the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses

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

Camden, your arrival truly graces our humble Knott Estate," Martin said with

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

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

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

compliment, Mr. Stonebrook." Heather appeared slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the

it's impolite to keep staring

snapped out of his daze and quickly stood up, saying, "I'm sorry, Ms. Knott, I was being

showed him a bashful smile. She was not angry at all. In fact, she felt quite pleased

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

cultivation resources, her strength would surely advance by

among

Denzel smiled a

said, "My

Knott once not long

first sight for him.

lost

his appetite and many.

I became anxious, soove brought him

Cóntent

done speaking, he clapped his hands, and

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

box, though smaller,

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

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

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

cleanse the body, improve physical constitution, extend

improved their constitution, accelerated their training speed,

are you satisfied with

satisfied. Extremely satisfied,

you agree to their marriage?"

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

she was overjoyed inside. With the future title of daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family, who would dare

parties quickly settled on the wedding date, setting it for a year

is

people who could cause trouble for you. Who

interjected, "It's a scoundrel named

commoner.

a strange disease once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later, when my illness flared up, that scoundrel saved

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

mind, we can call off

light crossed Camden's eyes. "I heard about this incident too, but I didn't know the

worry, Heather. I don't mind. It wasn't

for understanding," Heather forced out a couple of

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

she hoped

I never

engaged, he demanded

then tried

furious, smashing the table in front of him. "Heather, don't

is very strong. Even my father couldn't defeat

years old. How could he

increase. There are also

his 20s, but his real

at least at the early pinnacle

is definitely well over

he just an early-stage divine

Camden's engagement

heir of the Stonebrook family, one of the four major families of the

Holton's Knott Estate, it

odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the

at five rings, placing her on the same level as Kaitlyn and the

with boundless potential and

compensated

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

those who secretly admired Heather,

no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't want her even if she was

from Martin, Sebastian invested in a

find Fressia, secure the third stage of the cultivation

boost the cultivation of those

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

are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've sent

is for me,

nodded. "Yes,

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

are

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

"Mr. Wilder, I think it's best if you don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their invitation is definitely not sincere it's clear

nodded in agreement. "My father is right.

right into

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

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your concern, but those

They're not worth

fine. If they dare provoke

ie

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

please listen to us and don't

can't be avoided. If they're out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even if I

them sooner

the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman

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

me?" Sebastian asked.

Sebastian nodded.

the banquet. Going there now is like walking into

been waiting here just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked

into you

to care so much about me. Could it be that you've fallen for me?"

scoffed

if Ms. Gardner says so, then it's surely true. Why don't

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

up. No more advice, please," Sebastian said

father and daughter both sighed and shook their heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to his doom.

atmosphere was

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

end of

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

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

Sebastian.

keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and his subordinate

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

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

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

the way, has

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

nodded again

Sebastian and his companions entered

doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he

family's plan, yet he

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

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

"Stop playing dumb. Since you've come today, don't expect to leave here

"Brat, today next year

right after. "Don't say I didn't give you a chance. If you kneel down,

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

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

came to congratulate the couple, Mr.

reputation. Mr. Camden would never let him live. I

Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done to her, seeing him

Camden and said, "Today is your engagement

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

his smile was

furious. "What are you laughing at, you

are so many good women out there. Why on earth did you

You've got some nerve!" Camden fumed with

it. This guy must

Mr. Camden asked, he might have had a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now he's probably wishing for death to be an easy way

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Stonebrooks' third elder, Trey Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking ready

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

been practicing

cultivation technique, one that

energy to

One day,

her

"Shut up!"

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

on

believe him. This guy has slandered my

you have?" Camden

wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me, but I wasn't interested in her at

He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with

No matter what he

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 I

"To slander my woman right in front

with me. If you don't believe me, you can have

Even if an examination proves my

has ulterior motives.

for a long moment, and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he wondered, "Could this guy be

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

verify everything as soon as the engagement banquet

as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it hard

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

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

whereas Septimus was a middle-stage divine grandmaster, significantly

no fear. He smirked mockingly and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're a fool

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

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

Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks

However, Heather's reaction

everyone stunned. Upon realizing she

tricked, Heather

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

fool, and he was infuriated by the

one of the four major families of the southern region, with all their elders being divine

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power was truly

the pressure from his released

and Abigail looked on with faces full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could

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

sound, Septimus'

pained scream and

chased him

"What?"

was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like

strength was

and Kaitlyn were the most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian had participated in

just an ordinary person, perhaps at most a warrior. After all, if he

underestimated you. If you release Septimus now,

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

his eyes

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

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

found her even more enticing than he had imagined. He nodded

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

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

out his eyes and breaking

is my bottom line!" Camden

and whispered, "Didn't I

place isn't some death trap. Why

Kaitlyn said, "I didn't realize your strength was so formidable, but

The Stonebrook family

your eyes and breaking your

and replied, "Ms. Gardner,

in the

know it's hard to

five miserably than

but in

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

were slim, at

"Septimus!"

members of the Stonebrook family erupted

rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how

be satisfied until I torture you

cripple his cultivation

truth, Trey didn't need Camden's order. He was already walking toward Sebastian, his

Every footfall left a deep

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

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

Sebastian's cultivation is? He struck so quickly before; this is definitely

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a long

sword and immediately drew it from its sheath. A

air, unleashing

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

be the Godslayer Blade

with this sword, and

hadn't expected Camden

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

in agreement. The Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could slice through iron

Sebastian, empty-handed-what

her eyes, unable to bear watching

resented the man who had taken her virginity, but after

defiled 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

him. This was why she would always instinctively

strength far surpassed hers, and

completely powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the

As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura

violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere that weighed down on

with weaker cultivation slumped

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

Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out to grab the Godslayer

filled with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade

made contact with Sebastian's palm. However, instead of the expected sight of blood and mangled

"How is this possible?"

and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as

Blade with his bare hand! This is insane!" "What level is this guy? How can

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

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

if he was jolted by

while nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not

a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and

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

kill or be killed. If you think you can

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

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

of idiots. You two really are

the idiot! Your whole family is!" Heather shouted angrily

you still dare to shout at me. If that's

plan to kill

said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not just you, but everyone you care

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,

the end, his voice was thunderous, sending

could believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring his intent to annihilate

down on him and thought that

was furious. He remarked, "You truly are full of yourself! Our family has stood

my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live.

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

dare!"

all the experts from the Stonebrook

disdain. He

down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed

struggled to remain

Kill him!" Camden

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

fray. Instead, he used the

burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out

from the Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a single move

The sheer ease

was terrifying.

to the ground, and her face became

that moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her by the

air, attempting

stepped forward to shield the nervous clerk and decided to let the matter drop,

happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet

so hard the tight bun

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

fate had dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful glance first to Jonathan and then

Ivy hadn't stepped between danger and the child, the day

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

almost grown-up, impossibly composed

I should be the one thanking you," he replied, voice clear

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

clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened, and the boutique

at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended to buy the lot

around the card, uncertainty flickering across her

required his guardian's word. Nathaniel gave a single,

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

"Of course," she said, nearly breathless

from velvet

employees watched, envy shining through their fixed

large could cover the down payment on a

more.

why Jonathan was

Ivy guided Nathaniel

but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one

over eight million." s

have taken a job at a

said, firm as bedrock. "I'm

When he offered no objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card through the polished

the numbers in disbelief.

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

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

set the receipt

indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the mannequin.

marble. "Pass it on to whatever gentleman keeps

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

apairof

listened in silence until 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 the ruckus that

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

reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did you have in a men's boutique

pick out a few

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

once, expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy certainly

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

darkened like a sky

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

it was only because

more like

She would never delegate adult shopping to

gaze sharpened. "You've figured

Jonathan blinked, performing

out a quiet breath. “When it comes

exposed so fast, and the realization sent

dark lashes lifting so his wide

back and forced a civil smile. "Why would

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

snapped shut.Am

“And exactly where did you pick up on

printed across your face, Dad.” Jon

landed like a weight on his chest. If even a child could read him, how had

door stayed shut

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

almost

behind them, arms loaded with shopping bags bulging with new

been? And what on earth is

inspecting the loot, but

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

had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel

nice. I was starting to

bewildered. When have

Jonathan a pointed look.

resigned himself to carrying the constipation story

I've been skimping

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

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

who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch of discomfort in that tiny body can split

his cheeks until his whole face

the problem, never imagining

Cecilia had hugged him

really. I'll be fine if I drink more water. It isn't that bad,

had always been the model child, obedient, courteous, eager to spare adults

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

the

expression twisted into silent misery. Great, sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you

whispered, the words nearly swallowed by the flush covering his

and a glimmer of amused

another word, Cecilia opened her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and

a summoned genie,

not sure how to use them,

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

on earth would he let Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his head

can manage

can. You can handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that

endure the

off to the bathroom with you," she said, voice low and gentle, as

"Okay."

like contraband and

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

constipated? He sure doesn't look it," Elliot

with a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease your

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

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

Mommy, you have to take

she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back while he struck every pose

photoshoot ended, she

Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the sorrow

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

return, video-called often to check on the children

life seemed to find its

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

belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were

have decided. We'll come right after the New

will prepare every one of your favorite dishes," Bethany

aloud, chatted with Bethany for a good while longer, then

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

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

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

"Ceci."

jerked in surprise. "What is

we're doing today?" His question

do you mean?" Confusion

Nathaniel's eyes.

read the room.

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

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

could

long arms swept

possessive motion,

his chest, as though staking a

have to

rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every syllable vibrating through the scant inches

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

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

his embrace, chin settling atop her hair as

other? They're not babies anymore. They

babies? They're only six-maybe

own," Nathaniel replied, the words low,

arched, genuine amazement slipping past her

for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build

just regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps Old Mr.

།

Elliot. As for Jonathan, let

a hand, the pad of his finger brushing her burning cheek.

"Hmm?"

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

then did it click. Her proud, composed husband was

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

storm

and bolted down the hallway, bare feet whispering

it, then sprang up and covered the distance in long,

Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice low

door. "There are plenty of spare rooms in this

gentle shove, he slipped inside,

latch clicked, the deadbolt turned,

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

of white light, snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting the

her eyes to find Nathaniel's face less than an

that faint roughness, then lower to the soft curve of his

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open,

her even closer

can't breathe.” Her voice came out in

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

best friends a full day

tightened his arms and mumbled, "Give me a few

could be, warmth and weight

this attached?

his mouth. "I was younger.

and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing up beneath her

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

hit the mall with your friends,

head.

asked, still unwilling to

and something nice for

His tone carried a note of

"Nope."

interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every hanger she touched, as if color

her fingers loose, voice low and

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

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

rose, padded through quiet hallways,

1.

spirited Jon and

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

think

widened. "Baroness Wolfsbane," he called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot

burned red. He

Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her so-called pride, had done

all people, it was Alex-the outcast, the family

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

least this one

of you! From this moment on, Sofina will handle

The room fell silent.

"Don't worry, Grandma," she said. "I'll do my

a smug grin that made her blood

-try all

thousand of you. She's fighting to lift this

embarrassment of this

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

you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking your own grandmother's got half a

"No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal, that's all!

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 they say: hell's full

eyes flashed. "Me? Envious?" she snapped. "You're a fool if you think any of this will

let's make this interesting. What if she

"Fine. You think I'm scared?

main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is

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

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

me in too! If I win,

gaze on her, raising a brow. "Alright. But

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

this—if you lose, you kneel ten times and admit you're lower

"Ha! You're really digging your

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

"Fine," he said calmly. "But if I win, you'll accept our marriage- no more insults, no more

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

said. "I like it when everyone plays

them. She

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

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

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

"Trust?

shot him a look. "That's supposed

talk to someone who hasn't

I bet on your victory.

a brow. "You really think this

course," Alex said. "It'll show who's got

her arms. "And what if

I'll finally fit right in

seat, clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind was sharp. Today would decide

black luxury car they'd won from Nikolaus-a

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

one hand casually resting on the wheel. "Maybe it's

grandmother and mother wouldn't dare buy you one,

can."

him. "You

on our way up. And when this is over,

shook her head, half anxious, half amused. "I wish I had your

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

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

luck," Sofina whispered as the car touched

door. "With me here, your luck's already doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener of the Eden

QUMS

couldn't help but laugh. For a moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could carry that same unshakable optimism he

stood under the shadow of the two-hundred-story tower and felt something empty out inside her-like a room with the furniture

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

to partner with them was like a beggar asking a banker to

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

occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all dressed

huddled in quiet conversations, their voices low but tense, each

Group. The sight

all every one

of them was hono

the same thing: a coffaboration

on earth are you doing here?" a

standing with

tightened the way a judge's did

sentence.

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

the hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother

Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided into the room, humming softly as its

was just shoved by a guest-he forced her

the

projected the recording. Heinrich's hand clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging her down the hallway while

his collar, pulled on his

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

helping her pick

matter what I say, he just slips back into

he hurt you?" Alex asked, gently lifting her

nothing serious,"

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

But I like the

hand brushed his chest. "The same way I like

"You really

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

walked back through the glass

a voice cracked

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

The color

it-the invisible chain that still tied her

vanish overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if waiting for his approval...

stepped forward, placing himself between Sofina

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

me how to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like a king.

laugh. "Keep dreaming. You're not

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

give him anything. He brings

Wedell, head of human resources, hurried over and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group.

somebody in your place had the nerve to try and

would deliberately offend you.

said coldly. "That's the man. Your gardener. He insulted me and tried to

His brow furrowed. "I've never seen

smiled faintly. "Eden Group has over a thousand workers in this two-hundred-floor building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone

forget your place. I'm Dietrich

I can fire you anytime I want. Now,

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and beg for

He's the one who tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't even

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

not

compared to him! Now

Alex said calmly, shaking

fired if you don't!"

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

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

gather, drawn by the rising tension. Laughter rippled through them

jeered. "A gardener trying to stand up to Heinrich? The man really doesn't know who he's

"That gardener's got a name. You know

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing off.

smirked and turned to

you've been desperate for my attention, haven't

it. Your husband's a fool who doesn't know

Three bows, and I might forgive

Alex's arm, her

I'll make sure everyone in Winchester hears about this. You have

I'll have the whole

Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing outcasts. And you know I

s

him tighter and

but steady.

She met his eyes.

stepped forward

face was red as a boil. "You hit me,

curse.

God's name do you think you're doing, bitch!" Dietrich

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

Heinrich upright, supporting him with a hand at the small of his

worry, Mister Heinrich. I've called security. Twenty lashes. She won't be standing after that her flesh will

a command.

stepped forward until he stood toe-to-toe with Dietrich. "You'd better cancel

who'll get hurt is

communication bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish this

head. "I warned

crowd began

hit Heinrich," someone

know Heinrich's the man everyone

another

security unit glided forward and ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses swept over

a threat to her, an alert raced