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.

Heather, however, was paralyzed with fear. She never expected that her father, whom she had believed to be nearly invincible, would be so easily overpowered by Sebastian. His strength terrified her.

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

know is that

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

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

his gaze toward Heather, who

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

wrist, Heather was unable to resist and was suddenly pulled

knew that a divine grandmaster could manipulate objects from a

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

grabbed Heather by the neck once

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

hard across the face and sneered. "What

was both furious and panicked. "My mentor will never let you get away with this!" she

"I thought you had some brains, but it seems

cold laugh echoed. "Even now, you don't understand what

Bertha were here, she wouldn't

My mentor is one of the Grand Elders of the Netherworld

had pleaded for help from her mentor, Bertha,

captured. With her level of skill, ordinary people wouldn't pose a threat to

to make this father-daughter duo taste despair,

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

ants,"

them,

It wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence rooted in his

far from Knott Estate. With the speed of carrier pigeons and their giant

two hours had passed, and still no sign

mentor won't be

you can't kill me. I'm the Netherworld Sect's once-in-a-millennium genius apprentice. If you kill

responded calmly, "If I were afraid, I wouldn't have let you call for help, nor would I be standing

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

casually as if he were talking about slaughtering

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

would have dismissed

just witnessed him severely injured Martin in a single

last words before you die?" Sebastian

kill me. For the sake of the one night we shared as husband and wife, spare my life. I'm still

die."

a cold chuckle. "You still dare to mention our one night together? You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then

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

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

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

wasn't my doing! It was Sean acting on his

do with

can vouch for her. When it all happened, Heather

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

intent.

belongs to s

a wave of fear, Martin quickly denied, "It

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

against each

thinking that forcing them to choose would

than simply killing them

survivor would live with

talk. I'm giving you one

full of fear and

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

go, and just name your price-

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

Why don't you just rob a bank?"

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

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

Martin gritted his teeth, feeling

of gold, Sebastian only asked for

Martin handed Sebastian ten

and left after receiving

he was merciful, but because he wanted to

Sebastian followed Hendrick to

Watson, I'd like to ask you for a favor,"

need to

healed his wounds, which

debt that Hendrick considered a

alchemist, with immeasurable strength to boot.

paper and a pen, then drew an image

a professional artist, his

the woman in the picture your wife?" Abigail

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

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

confident in herself, but after seeing the portrait,

the drawing

matching her

explained the circumstances and timing

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

Sebastian stayed at the chamber,

arrange for some people to

assigned Brork to

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

single word of refusal. He was completely

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

I just can't swallow

looked at Heather and asked, "Are you willing to marry

"Mr. Camden is an outstanding

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

daughter then stepped out to greet

in large

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

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

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

Knott, you're too kind. Please

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

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

more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes

it's impolite to

quickly stood up, saying,

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

the

would surely advance by

might even secure a place among the four great

Denzel smiled a

said, "My son

Knott once not long ago, and

at first sight for

he lost

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

was done speaking, he clapped his hands,

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

smaller, contained dozens of

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

gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to

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

constitution, extend life, and

their constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even helped

"Mr. Knott, are you

satisfied,

that mean you agree to

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

future title of daughter-in-law

setting it

recently provoked someone whose strength is formidable and who is extremely

could cause trouble for you. Who might this person be?"

"It's a scoundrel named Sebastian

commoner.

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

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

we can call off

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

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

Heather forced out a couple of

Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the Stonebrook family's

herself, she hoped to handle the situation

what I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but

soon as we got engaged, he

refused him. He then tried to force himself on

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

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

be under 30 years old.

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

20s, but his real age could be

That brat's cultivation is at least at

real age is definitely well

an early-stage divine grandmaster? That's nothingChapter

Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

of the

decent status as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it

Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the daughters of

five rings, placing her on

with boundless

and talent compensated for

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

peers, especially those who secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened,

the news, but he paid it no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't want her even if she was offered without

invested in a vast amount

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

stockpile pills now to boost the cultivation of those around him

refinement was an exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One day, after finishing

Wilder, Heather and Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've

is for

"Yes, you're

intentions-it was nothing more than an attempt to

asked, "Mr. Wilder, are you planning

me an invitation, so if I don't go, wouldn't I

you to the core and their invitation is definitely not sincere it's clear they want to use the Stonebrook family's

in agreement. "My father is right. You

walking right into

petty clowns. There's

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

appreciate your concern,

They're

alone, fine. If

ie

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

Wilder, please listen to us and don't

they'll cook

better to confront them sooner rather than later,Chapter

approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman

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

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

Sebastian nodded.

the banquet. Going there now is like

been waiting here just to tell me this?" Sebastian

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

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

scoffed and turned to

so, then it's surely true. Why don't we turn

Mr. Wilder. There's always hope as long as you're alive. With your talent, you're destined to become a peerless force in the future. Just bide

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

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

Knott Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled

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

Heather was overjoyed. After all, by the end of today, she

To have Heather a woman both stunning

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

Sebastian.

on Sebastian's movements, and his

at that moment, "Mr. Camden,

exits once he enters. Make

able to get away,

satisfaction. "By the

with the family's third elder and the seventh elder here, dealing

again in

that moment, Sebastian and

Korbin exclaimed in

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

you bastard! You actually had the guts

place isn't exactly a dragon's lair. Why wouldn't I dare to

Since you've come today, don't expect to leave

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

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

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

"I invited you here just to kill you. You're no

He thinks that just because he came to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden would let him go.

Camden would never let him live.

was quick to hurl insults. Among all the people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had

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

things. If you want to live today, the only way is to do as

his

are you laughing at,

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

dare you insult my woman? You've got some

it. This guy

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.

Stonebrook stood up. They

Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth. You

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to enhance

day, shevited

Estate, lured me into her room,

"Shut up!"

pale and quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting

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

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

do you have?"

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

just upset that I broke off the engagement with him, so he's trying to slander me. You

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

expect was that she was using an evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she

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

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

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

chimed in, "Camden, this guy has ulterior motives. Don't fall for his

feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he wondered,

stop standing around and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether

to verify everything as soon as the engagement banquet

powerful aura that felt as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it hard for everyone

Just the aura alone is enough to make

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

whereas Septimus was a middle-stage divine

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

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

on her chest because I got a bit rough. They're probably

hand. In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed by now, given a

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing she

tricked, Heather

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

a fool, and he was infuriated

major families of

in particular, was a middle-stage divine grandmaster.

his released aura

flashed with worry. But there was little they could

it seemed he would succeed,

resounding sound, Septimus' arm shattered

Septimus let out a pained scream and staggered back

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

"What?"

A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated

was beyond

Kaitlyn were the most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian

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

"I've really underestimated you.

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

his eyes filled

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

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

enticing than he had imagined. He nodded and said,

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

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

isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking his

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

Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I

place isn't some death trap. Why shouldn't I come?"

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

The Stonebrook family

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

"Ms. Gardner, I appreciate your

in the

it's hard to

five miserably than

my..." Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but in the end,

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

slim, at

"Septimus!"

of the Stonebrook

rage as he shouted,

satisfied until I torture

cripple his cultivation for

need Camden's order. He was

each step forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall

Trey's cultivation must be truly

but it's said that Trey has the ability to fight beyond his level, comparable

struck so quickly before; this is definitely going

Everyone nodded in agreement.

shouted, tossing a

and immediately drew it from its sheath. A

resonated through the air, unleashing a wave

plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their

this be the Godslayer Blade of

member of the Stonebrook family proudly stated, "That's right. This is our Stonebrook family's Godslayer Blade. Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with

stunned. They hadn't expected Camden

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

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

here was Sebastian, empty-handed-what

unable to

first, she deeply resented the man who had taken her virginity, but after calming down and reflecting, her

found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was

develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he

come to realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't need her

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

the Godslayer Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It

violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere

with weaker cultivation slumped to the ground while

so

about to strike, Sebastian

and stop the Godslayer Blade technique

Sebastian's palm. However, instead of the expected sight of blood and mangled flesh, the sword stopped dead in its tracks as it

"How is this possible?"

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

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

desperately channeled his energy, trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He

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

he was

examined the Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is

in a mix of anger and panic,

"You actually dared to kill two of our family's elders! Do you have a

"Either kill or be killed. If you think you can kill me, I can

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

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

two really are

You're the idiot! Your whole family is!"

about to die, yet you still dare to shout at me. If

You really plan to kill us?" Heather was

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

me, I'll kill that person. If you send two,

the end, his voice

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

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

was furious. He remarked, "You truly are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over a thousand years,

fight us alone? Hand over the Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live. Otherwise, I guarantee

not I end up in a grave, you won't

you dare!" Camden

He gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as they were ready

He took a step

everyone present. Those below

to remain standing, their legs quivering with

Kill him!"

were filled with terror, they had

join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos

disdainful expression. With a wave of his hand, a tremendous energy burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood

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

of cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

collapsed to the ground, and her face became

rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her by the

the air, attempting

in the way little Jonathan stepped forward to shield the nervous clerk and decided to let the matter drop,

ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of

Elodie blurted, nodding so hard the tight bun at the back of her

away did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like

Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful glance first

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

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

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

thanking you," he replied, voice clear

the miniature pocket of his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up,

a clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes

at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended to

flickering across her eyes as she sought Nathaniel's

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

did not understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of

in Ivy's expression. "Of course,"

from velvet

employees watched,

the down payment on a new

more.

nearby and everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying,

guided

voice barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of

over eight million." s

her, Ivy would never have

said, firm as bedrock.

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

chimed, she stared at the numbers in

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

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

finally set the

stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray

it on to whatever

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

had listened in silence until now, spoke in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you ever hit a rough patch,

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

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

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

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

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

nodded once, expression unreadable. "Your Ms.

inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but

mood darkened like

his tiny pinkie around Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually

it was only

appeared more like an

delegate

"You've figured

Jonathan blinked,

comes to social-grade lying,

hadn't expected to be exposed so fast, and the realization sent a tremor of startled admiration through

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

smile. "Why would I be?" he countered,

clothes for me and Elliot, but none for you. She skipped you completely. That

opened, then snapped shut.Am I showing it that

“And exactly where did you pick

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

like a weight on his chest. If even a child could read him, how had Cecilia never noticed? She

when the restroom door stayed shut far too long.

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

in the corridor, she almost collided with Jonathan

the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms

And

stepped forward, intent on inspecting the loot,

said smoothly. "Holiday

earlier excuse had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel

been nice. I was starting to wonder why you'd vanished."Chapter

Jonathan gaped, utterly bewildered. When have I ever been

his throat and shot Jonathan a

carrying the

skimping on water lately,"

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

all right? You're far too little

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

felt heat rush to his cheeks until his

never imagining the

ages since Cecilia had hugged him like

I'll be fine if I drink

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

won't do. Maybe we should buy medicine.

with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce

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

Mommy, I don't need them,” he whispered,

the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess he

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

a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed

If you're not sure

the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair

particular battlefield. He shook his

Mommy. I can manage

handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every gesture

already forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If it lasted, a doctor's visit would be

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

"Okay."

contraband and bolted

sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating

sure doesn't look it," Elliot muttered

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

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

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

have to take tons

the new clothes in bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back while he struck

photoshoot ended, she pinged

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

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, and funny anecdotes typed at

in return, video-called often to check

seemed

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

Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side of the

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

as soon as you can. Your grandpa and I will prepare every one of your favorite dishes," Bethany replied, her delight practically shimmering

good while longer, then finally ended the call with a reluctant

and Elliot collapsed onto their beds,

and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick of a wall

intent on

"Ceci."

surprise. "What

doing today?" His question hovered,

do you mean?"

clouded Nathaniel's eyes.

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

earlier cheer. "What's the matter? Who

step closer, the scent of

she could speak

arms

swift, possessive

chest, as though staking a claim no

really have to

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

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

If Elliot or

chin settling atop her hair as if the conversation

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

she muttered, "Not babies? They're only six-maybe

on my own," Nathaniel

past her irritation. "You left

arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build some resilience. It'll give us more space for,

Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still

།

Jonathan, let him stay with

lifted a hand, the pad of his finger brushing

"Hmm?"

a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives.

Her proud, composed husband was

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

storm gathering

down the hallway, bare feet whispering across the

blinked, stunned that she would dare make a break for it, then

the bedroom and tried to swing the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the

are plenty of spare rooms in

he slipped inside, scooped her up again, and kicked the door

clicked, the deadbolt turned, and darkness enveloped

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

snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting the room in

opened her eyes to find Nathaniel's face less than an inch away. She could count the fine

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

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open, hazy

awake?” he murmured, drawing her even closer until her breath mingled

breathe.” Her voice came out in

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

had promised her best friends a full day of

"Give me a few more minutes. Keep me

realize how clingy he could be, warmth and

were you this attached? I

grin tugged at his mouth. "I was younger.

dark

to get moving. I have a busy

hit the mall with your friends, that's all, right?

head. "That's it.

are you buying?” he asked, still unwilling to release

for Mom, and something

a note of suspicion wrapped in playful

"Nope."

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

her fingers loose, voice low and flat.

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

shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like a weight on his ribs

quiet hallways,

1.

Elena had spirited Jon and Elliot off

the Dunce! You can say all that crap because you're an idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had even a sliver of sense,

only a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had any chance of working with the

called you an idiot with half a

He spun toward the Baroness. “I—I didn't

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

was Alex-the outcast, the family fool-who

girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the old woman's

least this one had

you!" she thundered. "You're cowards! Every last one of you! From this moment on,

The room fell silent.

"Don't worry, Grandma," she

a smug grin that

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

She's fighting to lift this family up,

real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind

"I think the Wolfsbane family is great enough that even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the

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

what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that

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

snapped. "You're a fool if you think any of

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

You think I'm scared? Name your

Sofina pulls this off, that place is ours foever. You move into

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

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

in, "Count me in too! If I win, I want Nikolaus's

turned his gaze on her, raising a brow. "Alright. But what

"I won't lose. But fine-I'll

you love calling me a half-slave, how about this—if

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

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

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

bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's official now. You'll

"I like it when everyone

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

family could actually secure that

"Sofina, you have three days to negotiate

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

"Trust? No.

a look. "That's supposed to make

want comfort, talk to someone who

bet on your victory. Isn't that

brow. "You really think this bet will

who's got guts

her arms. "And what if you

fit right in with this

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

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

the reflections glide across the car's polished hood, “we should return this car. It's too extravagant for us. Everyone's going

wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy for a gardener like me,"

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

can."

glancing at him. "You

road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll have

her head, half anxious, half amused. "I

Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you

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

luck," Sofina whispered

"With me here, your luck's already doubled," he said

QUMS

eased. She wished she could carry that same unshakable

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

glass façade rose into the sky like a polished god. The

like a beggar asking a banker to lend

She'd accepted the challenge in front of the whole

felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts,

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

The sight said

all every one

of them was hono

the same thing: a coffaboration with

What on earth are you doing

turned and found Heinrich standing

lips tightened the way a judge's did

sentence.

don't understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward and grabbed Sofina's wrist in a rough. "You're here to attract attention," he hissed. "I told you I won't give you any. Leave this place." "Heinrich,” she said calmly. "I'm not here for you. I'm here for the Wolfsbane- for

tone thick with mockery. "You? Who the hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group. You're not worthy-none

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

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

me the footage,"

around Sofina's arm, dragging her down the

collar, pulled on his gloves, and strode

gathering a pile of scattered papers.

he said quietly, helping her pick them

frustrated. "It's Heinrich. No matter what I say, he just

asked, gently lifting her chin, checking

nothing serious,"

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

But I like the feel of paper. I

"The same way I like touching

chuckled. "You really

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

walked back through the

voice

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

froze. The color drained

invisible chain that still tied her

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

forward, placing himself between Sofina and

"You're a guest. You have no authority to order people

to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like

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

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

his arm. "Let's go. Don't give him anything. He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a nearby figure. "Manager Wedell!" he

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

join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out. Frankly, Eden Group doesn't feel

tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to

the man. Your gardener. He insulted

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

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

closer. "You seem to forget your place.

you anytime I

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and beg for his

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

idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one of the brightest

he's not joining?" Alex asked

doesn't, he deserves your respect. You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I make sure you

said calmly, shaking

if you don't!"

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

low and dangerous. "How about this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three

the rising tension. Laughter

"A gardener trying to stand up to

got a name. You know who he

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

of Winchester?

and turned

desperate for my attention,

fool who doesn't know

bows, and I might

Alex's

sure everyone in Winchester hears about this. You have offended

have

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

s

but Sofina grabbed him

soft but steady. "Let me handle

face. She met his eyes. "Trust

stepped

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

curse.

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

Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot - fetch

a

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

syllable a command. "Give

cancel that order," he said. "Someone's going to get hurt if

one who'll get hurt

"Security

head. "I warned

crowd began to close

hit Heinrich,"

Heinrich's

her!" another

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

flagged a threat to her, an

in the room expected-Eve, the household robot

machine. Alex had wired her into his network bridge so she could talk to every Eden

every linked node. Any device that touched Sofina

snapped into the network. "Override the previous command. Secure Dietrich and

security robot optical sensors