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.

father, whom she had believed to be nearly invincible,

struggling to comprehend the situation. His eyes were filled with terror as

need to know is that you are nothing but ants in my eyes,

have thought he was boasting. But

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

Heather, who instantly paled. Terror

do?" Heather stammered, trying to sound defiant. "I'm warning you. I'm an apprentice of the Netherworld Sect. My mentor is Bertha Erikson!

With a flick of his wrist, Heather was unable to resist and was suddenly pulled toward

They knew that a divine grandmaster could manipulate objects from a distance, but usually no further

away, and Sebastian still managed to pull her

grabbed Heather by

both angry and terrified.

sneered. "What

and panicked. "My mentor will never let you

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

now, you don't understand what

make it clear for you. Even if your mentor Bertha were here, she wouldn't be able to save you because, in my eyes, she's nothing more

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

had pleaded for help from her mentor, Bertha, while Sebastian stood

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

to make this father-daughter duo taste

and whispered, "Mr. Wilder, the Netherworld Sect is full of experts. They have

ants," Sebastian

don't underestimate them, Mr.

remained unfazed. It wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence rooted

Sect wasn't far from Knott Estate. With the speed of carrier pigeons and their giant birds that people could ride,

hours had passed, and still no sign of

won't be coming,"

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

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

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

a powerful sect as casually as if he were talking about slaughtering

strong did one have to be

had heard him before, they would have dismissed it

severely injured

do you have any last words before

was trembling so much that her legs gave out. She fell to her knees before Sebastian. "Sebastian, please don't kill me. For the sake of

die."

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

I truly know I was wrong now. Please give me

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

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

It was Sean acting on

by lust. It had nothing to do with me," Heather

it all

wasn't her, then it

intent.

belongs to s

Martin quickly denied, "It wasn't me! I had nothing

one of you. So, you can choose who will

to turn us against

silently agreed, thinking that forcing them to choose would

simply killing them

survivor would live with the

talk. I'm giving you one minute to

Heather's eyes were full of

He didn't want to die, but he also couldn't bear

we can negotiate. Let us go, and just name

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

just rob a bank?" Martin nearly

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

sneered. "If you're unwilling to pay one million, that's fine. I can just kill your daughter, and you won't have to pay

Martin gritted his teeth, feeling as

large amount of gold,

Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100

kept his word and left after

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

Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton Chamber

to ask you for a favor," Sebastian

there's no need to be so formal. Just tell me what you

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

that Hendrick considered

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

requested paper and a pen, then drew an image

professional artist, his drawing

Wilder, is the woman in the picture

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

eyes. It was hard not to

had always been confident in herself, but

in the

her own

then explained the circumstances and

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

the chamber, waiting for

for some people to

Brork to

terrifying power first

refusal. He was completely subdued, with

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

just can't swallow this humiliation!"

at Heather and asked, "Are you willing to

hesitation, "Mr. Camden is an outstanding man.

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

father and daughter then stepped out

arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance

man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses

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

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

said, "Mr. Knott, you're too

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

straight to the point, saying, "I've long heard that your daughter is as

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

impolite to keep staring

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

a bashful smile. She was not angry at

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

cultivation resources, her strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only a matter of time before she

among the four great

Denzel smiled a

"My

not long ago, and

first sight for

lost

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

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

box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box

smaller, contained dozens of

box of top-grade gemstones, a box of premium medicinal herbs, some

out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880 thousand, which was Chapter

extremely scarce in the market. When Martin

body, improve physical constitution, extend

their constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even helped

are you satisfied with the

satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually,"

that mean you agree to their marriage?"

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

inside. With the future title of daughter-in-law

it for a year later. Martin then mentioned Sebastian

whose strength is formidable

who could cause trouble for

a scoundrel named

commoner.

none

I was powerless

you mind, we can call

eyes. "I heard about this incident too, but I

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

understanding," Heather forced out

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

up herself, she hoped to handle the

what I never expected was that the scoundrel

engaged, he demanded that

refused him. He then tried to force himself on me, but

Camden was furious, smashing the table in front of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares to bully my woman will

Camden, that scoundrel is very strong. Even my father couldn't

years old. How could he be

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

may look like he's in his 20s, but his real age could be

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

age is definitely well

he just an early-stage divine grandmaster?

of Heather and Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

major families of the southern region, Camden would typically only marry into one of the other three great

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

wasn't on par with the daughters of the four great

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

a genius with boundless

compensated for

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

especially those who secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their hopes

but he paid it no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty

obtaining a million gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in a vast amount of

find Fressia, secure the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by stealth

pills now to boost the cultivation of those around him

rest. One day, after finishing his pill refinement session, Hendrick came to see

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

of them is for me, I assume?" Sebastian

nodded. "Yes,

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

asked, "Mr. Wilder, are

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

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

nodded in agreement. "My father is right. You mustn't

walking right

petty clowns. There's nothing to

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

"I appreciate your concern, but those people

just clowns. They're not worth

me alone, fine. If

ie

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

listen to us

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

better to confront them

of Knott Estate, a

gown, with a veil partially hiding her

me?" Sebastian asked. "Are you heading to the engagement banquet?" Kaitlyn

Sebastian nodded.

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

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

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

didn't expect you to care so much about me. Could

Kaitlyn scoffed and

Ms. Gardner says so, then it's surely

long as you're alive. With your talent, you're destined to become a peerless force in the future.

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

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

Estate, the atmosphere was

by sending Korbin and

main figures of the day, Heather was overjoyed. After all, by the end of today, she would be the future

was equally pleased, and his face was beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning and neredibly talented was something that would inspire

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

Sebastian.

tabs on

moment, "Mr.

once he enters. Make sure he doesn't

is in place. He won't be able to get

the way, has my father

subordinate reported, "Mr. Denzel head 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

again in

and his companions entered Knott

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

the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still showed up. Was he walking

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

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

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

a mocking smile. "Brat, today next

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

party. I came here to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet, here you are, shouting

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

he came to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden would let him go.

live. I can't tell if this

Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done to her, seeing him in danger made her

Camden and said, "Today is your engagement party. Killing someone might bring bad luck, don't

cultivators don't care about such things. If you want to

this, Sebastian laughed and his smile was full of

"What are you laughing at,

I really don't get it. There are so many good women out there. Why

You've got some nerve!"

lost it. This guy must

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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.

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to

One day,

lured me into her room, and tried to

"Shut up!"

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

Heather on purpose. You can't

him. This guy

you

"Why don't you let me finish what I was saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through

Camden and said, "Camden, he's lying! He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with him, so he's trying to

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

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

right in front of

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

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

in, "Camden, this guy has ulterior motives. Don't

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

coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the

for Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as soon

a powerful aura that felt as vast and overwhelming

Just the aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is truly

Korbin and Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster,

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

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

few scratch marks on her chest because I

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

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing

Heather was

I'll cut out your tongue and feed it

he

major families of the southern region, with all their

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster.

from his released

full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could do; they were powerless to stop the Stonebrook family from killing

quickly as lightning as his hand reached out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered, reacting faster and landing a punch directly into Septimus's

sound, Septimus' arm

a pained scream

with a swift movement, Sebastian chased him down and grabbed Septimus by

"What?"

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

strength was

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

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

you. If you release Septimus now, I

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

his eyes filled with

a favor? I'll have him release Septimus, and

her face was hidden, she had an undeniable allure that piqued his

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

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

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

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

is my

to Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I

death trap. Why shouldn't I

strength

Stonebrook

out your eyes and breaking your hands is

"Ms.

the habit of

it's hard to accept, but

miserably than to

Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but in the end,

fate worse than death. Rather than

chances were slim, at least Sebastian could die fighting

"Septimus!"

of the Stonebrook family

was seething with rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how

won't be satisfied until I torture

his cultivation

didn't need Camden's order. He was already walking toward Sebastian, his aura growing increasingly

step forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall left

be truly unfathomable. He's probably at the late-stage

it's said that Trey has the ability to fight

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Camden shouted, tossing a long

the sword and immediately drew it from its

through the air, unleashing a wave of

plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they

the Godslayer Blade of the Stonebrook

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

was stunned. They hadn't expected Camden to carry the

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

artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that

Sebastian, empty-handed-what

closed her eyes, unable to bear watching

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

Sebastian, she would have been defiled by that old scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he

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

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

trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her entire Netherworld Sect would

blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It seemed as though it would split the earth in

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

cultivation slumped

Sebastian alive, so his sword's target was

Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching

cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with one's

sight of blood and mangled flesh, the sword stopped dead in its tracks as it was caught firmly in

"How is this possible?"

shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned

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

the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all

slight exertion of

if he was

satisfaction. "This sword is not

sword back!" Trey shouted in a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a punch at

His finger trembled as he pointed at Sebastian. "You actually dared to kill two

If you think you can kill me, I can also

warning you. I'm the heir to the Stonebrook family. Do you dare to

Stonebrook family's power is beyond anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of

two really are made for each other," Sebastian

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

you still dare to shout at

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 about will pay with their

might seem powerful to others, but not me. You're nothing more than clowns. If you send one person to me, I'll kill that person. If you send two, I'll kill both of them. If you send a whole army, I'll wipe them out. If your entire

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

stunned into silence. No one could believe how brazen Sebastian was,

had said this before, everyone would have looked down on him and thought that he was lying.

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

admit your wrongs. Perhaps

"Whether or not I end up in a grave, you won't be around

you dare!"

from the Stonebrook family around him as they were ready to

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

an instant, the oppressive force weighed down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed to the

the grandmasters struggled to remain standing, their

him!" Camden

the Stonebrook family were filled with terror, they had no choice but

fray. Instead, he

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

crowd was very shocked. The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a single move

The

was terrifying.

and her face became pale

moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed

leapt into the air, attempting to

way little Jonathan stepped forward to shield the nervous clerk and

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

tight bun at the

Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread

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

danger and the child, the day would have ended in chaos or

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

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

the one thanking you," he replied, voice

a sleek matte card. Holding it

the staff like a clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes

at well over ten

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

was still a minor. A purchase of this scale required his

Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult

in Ivy's expression. "Of course," she said, nearly breathless with

velvet hangers into satin-lined bags

the showroom, the other employees watched, envy shining through

the down payment on

more.

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

Ivy guided Nathaniel

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

over eight million." s

her, Ivy would never have taken a

Jonathan said, firm as bedrock. "I'm

flicked to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she finally

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

presented the card with both hands, as though

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

finally set the receipt

he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the mannequin. "Consider this my gift, he said, oice

it on to whatever gentleman

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

apairof

Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing.

earlier, while paying the bill, Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast briefing

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

reach his thigh, and

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

knows Ms. Kennedy, and

"Your Ms. Kennedy

Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci

like

"Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a

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

Nathaniel, Jonathan appeared more like

delegate adult shopping to

"You've figured something out, haven't

Jonathan blinked, performing innocent

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

so fast, and the realization sent a tremor of

asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes

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

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

mouth opened, then snapped shut.Am I

exactly where

Dad.” Jon shrugged as

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

grew uneasy when the restroom door stayed shut far too long. Taking Elliot by

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

in the corridor, she almost

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

And what on earth is

inspecting

smoothly. "Holiday

so Nathaniel was

a heads-up would have been nice. I was

utterly bewildered. When have I ever been

and shot Jonathan a pointed look.

resigned himself to carrying the constipation

I guess I've been skimping

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

take you to a doctor, all right? You're

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

his cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly as a stovetop

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

since Cecilia had

drink more water. It

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

do. Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation sometimes needs glycerin

with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce

Great, sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you could

need them,” he whispered, the words

boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess

tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's

the time they reached home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia

If you're not sure how to use

Jonathan stared at the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like a

near this particular battlefield. He shook his head

can

hair, every

already forced to endure the stubborn ache

said, voice low and gentle, as though sending him into

"Okay."

and

brother's retreating and, though

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

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

chest, trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind

burst of cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on,"

to take tons of

to the bedroom, arms gathering the new clothes in bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and

photoshoot ended,

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

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

return, video-called often to

by little, life seemed to find its

be able to come back for a

knew Cecilia now belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward

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

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

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

Elliot collapsed onto their beds, fast asleep within

and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick of

eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five

"Ceci."

surprise.

doing today?" His question

you mean?" Confusion knitted

clouded Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing," he

turned his head, letting the full weight of his displeasure sit plainly on his face. Cecilia finally read the room.

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

a single step closer, the scent of cedar from his freshly pressed shirt drawing her

she could speak

long arms swept out

swift, possessive motion,

against his chest, as though staking a claim

have to

every syllable vibrating through the scant inches between

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

If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees this,

tightened his embrace, chin settling atop her hair as if the conversation

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

her eyes, she muttered, "Not babies?

overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low, laced with a

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

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

Elliot's just regained his health, and

།

over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let him stay with Old Mr. Sinclair for now. OnceChapter

his finger brushing

"Hmm?"

sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath.

Her proud, composed husband

the kids outrank you.

eyes darkened, a storm gathering behind the

and bolted down the hallway, bare feet whispering

break for it, then

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

on the door. "There are plenty of spare rooms in this

a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her up again, and kicked

clicked, the deadbolt turned, and darkness enveloped the

hissed against the windows,

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

less than an inch away. She could count the fine stubble dusting

her trace a finger over that faint roughness, then lower to the soft

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open,

her even closer until her

voice came out in a whisper, pressed tight

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

had promised her best friends a full day of window-shopping

his arms and mumbled, "Give

how clingy he could be, warmth and

were you this attached?

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

dark strands

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

again. "Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends, that's

her head. "That's

are you buying?” he asked,

for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa

a note

"Nope."

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

by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose,

when I leave too quickly. With that familiar assumption, she let the

behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like a

through quiet

1.

Elena had spirited Jon and

idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted,

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

idiot with half a brain for daring to ask for collaboration. Thought

pale, then burned red. He spun toward

kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her

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

Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the

this one had

cowards! Every last one of you!

The room fell silent.

she said. "I'll

a smug grin that made her blood

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

lift this family up, while you bury it in arrogance

Beatrix's face turned crimson. "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

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

and waved her hands fast. "No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal, that's all! I'm being

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

she snapped. "You're a fool if you

make this interesting. What if she

You think I'm scared? Name your terms, Alex

heard the Baroness gave you that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is ours foever. You move into our home,

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

Alex said, leaning back with a half-smile. "Then let's

me in too!

his gaze on her, raising a brow.

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

half-slave, how about this—if you lose, you kneel ten times and admit you're lower than that

burst out laughing. "Ha! You're really digging your own grave, loser! Fine-I'll take that

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

win, you'll accept

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

"I like it when

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

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

this nonsense." She roared. "Sofina, you have three days to negotiate and close

window. "You really think Grandma

smirked. "Trust? No.

shot him a look. "That's

someone who hasn't met this family." Sofina rolled

least I bet on your victory.

really think this bet

Alex said. "It'll show who's got guts

arms. "And

"Then I'll finally fit right in

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

from Nikolaus-a machine so rare in Winchester that it

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

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

you the future deputy of the Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare buy you one, so let's enjoy it while

can."

frowned, glancing at him. "You really think this is

from the road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this

half anxious, half amused. "I wish I had

"You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the

toward the Eden Group's towering headquarters, its glass walls gleaming in the morning

Sofina whispered as the car

walked around to open her door. "With me here, your luck's already doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener of the Eden Group. That means

QUMS

but laugh. For a moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could carry that same unshakable optimism he always

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

sky like a polished god. The idea that

like a beggar asking a banker

accepted the challenge in front of the whole

the entrance, Sofina slowed her pace. The lobby felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from

but tense, each waiting for their turn to

The sight

all every one

of them was hono

thing: a coffaboration with power.

on earth are you doing

turned and found Heinrich standing with

like hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way a judge's did

sentence.

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

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

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

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

the footage,"

arm, dragging her down the hallway while papers scattered

straightened his collar, pulled on his

the floor, gathering a pile of

her pick

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

hurt you?" Alex asked, gently

nothing serious,"

handed her the last sheet. "You know, you don't need to print everything. The digital

"Maybe. But I like the feel of

chest. "The same way I like

"You really

that," 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

back through the glass

voice cracked

"What the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay away from me.

froze. The color drained

saw it-the invisible chain that still

doesn't vanish overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if waiting for his approval... or his

himself between Sofina

Alex said. "You're a guest. You

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

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

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

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

"Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you

yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to

tone tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you, tell me their name and I'll see they're

man. Your gardener. He insulted me and tried

Eden Group gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you pretending to be one of our employees by wearing

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 me the uniform."

closer. "You seem to forget your

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

and beg

tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't even belong to Eden

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

he's not joining?" Alex

nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I make sure you

said calmly, shaking his head. "I

if you

darkly. "Come on, Alex. We've known each other a long time. Just kneel and bow three times, and maybe I'll let you

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

by the rising tension. Laughter rippled through

gardener trying to stand up to

gardener's got a name. You

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

"Oh hell, that Alex? The walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing off. He's too stupid to know

and

my

husband's a fool who doesn't know his

Three bows, and I might forgive

Alex's arm, her knuckles

sure everyone in Winchester

I'll have the

back on you-even the Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing outcasts. And you know I

s

but Sofina grabbed him tighter and shook her

but steady.

searching her face. She

stepped forward alone.Chapter

hit me, bitch-" He spat the

curse.

do you think

Eden Group! Security robot

hustled Heinrich upright, supporting him with a hand at the

Mister Heinrich. I've called security. Twenty lashes. She won't be

every syllable a command. "Give her what

toe-to-toe with Dietrich. "You'd better cancel that order," he said. "Someone's going to get hurt if

sneered. "The one who'll get

communication bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish

tilted his head. "I

began

dare she hit

Heinrich's the man

her!" another voice

and ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses swept over Sofina, cold

to her,