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?"

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

would have thought he was boasting. But now, not a single person

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

Heather, who instantly

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

words. With a flick of his wrist, Heather was unable to resist and

They knew that a divine grandmaster could manipulate objects from a distance, but usually

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

Heather by the

doing, Sebastian?" Heather asked, both angry and

smack, Sebastian slapped her hard across the face and sneered. "What can you do now that I've laid

furious and panicked. "My mentor will never let you

smile. "I thought you had some brains,

by that?" Heather asked while bristling with anger. Sebastian's cold laugh echoed. "Even now, you don't understand what kind of being you've provoked. You keep threatening

if your mentor Bertha were here, she wouldn't be able to save you because, in my eyes, she's

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

had pleaded for help from her

already knew by now that Fressia hadn't been captured. With her level of skill, ordinary people wouldn't pose

make this father-daughter duo taste despair, bit

of experts. They have five divine grandmasters, and Tyler's

just ants," Sebastian replied

don't underestimate them,

wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence

far from Knott Estate. With the speed of carrier pigeons and their giant birds that people could ride,

passed, and still no

mentor won't be coming," Sebastian

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

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

doesn't come after me, fine. But if

a powerful sect as casually as if he were talking about

this? How strong did one have

had heard him before, they would have dismissed it as bluster, and not even credible

severely injured Martin

do you have any last words

me. For the sake of the one night we shared

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

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

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

godmother, had her beaten severely, and even

wasn't my doing! It was Sean acting on

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

"She's right, I can vouch for her. When it all happened, Heather was at the Netherworld Sect. She

If it wasn't her, then it must've been you." Sebastian turned his gaze te Martin, his

intent.

belongs to s

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

of you.

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

agreed, thinking that forcing them

simply killing

the survivor would live

one minute to decide.

full of

was at a loss for words. He didn't want to

we can negotiate. Let us go, and just

"Alright. I'll give you a chance. I want one million

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

comfortably for a lifetime.

can just kill your daughter, and you won't have to

pay!" Martin gritted his teeth, feeling as

to the large amount of gold, Sebastian only asked for

after, Martin handed Sebastian ten

and left after receiving

intended to kill Martin and Heather-not because he was merciful, but because he wanted to take his

Sebastian followed Hendrick to the

Watson, I'd like to ask you

no need to be so formal. Just tell

his wounds, which saved his life, but also helped him

debt that Hendrick considered a second chance at

a second grade alchemist, with immeasurable strength to boot.

your help to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen,

professional artist, his drawing

the woman in the picture your

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

It was hard not to admire a

confident in herself, but after seeing the portrait, her confidence

in the

matching her own beauty.

then explained the circumstances

Wilder. I'll send people to find her immediately. I'm sure we'll have news soon," Hendrick assured him with

chamber,

some people to take care

to protect her

first hand, Brork didn't dare

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

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

I just can't swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter

asked, "Are you

Camden is an outstanding

marriage today and then ask the Stonebrook family to deal

father and daughter then stepped

large numbers, bringing an abundance

of the Stonebrook family and one of the top

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

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

slightly and said, "Mr. Knott, you're too

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

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

Stonebrook." Heather appeared slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left her, like they were practically

reprimanded, "Camden, it's impolite to keep staring at Ms. Knott.

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

She was not angry

If Heather could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family,

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

among

Denzel smiled a

"My

once not long ago,

love at first sight for

he lost his

his appetite and many.

over her. As his father, I

Cóntent

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

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

box, though smaller, contained dozens

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

truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880 thousand, which was

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

cleanse the body, improve physical constitution, extend

improved their constitution, accelerated their training

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

very satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin

mean you agree to

remarkable man. For him to be interested in my daughter is an honor for us. How could we

future title of daughter-in-law of

setting it for a year later. Martin then

provoked someone whose strength is formidable and who is

In the southern region, there aren't many people who could cause trouble for you. Who might this person

scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's just

commoner.

once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could

I was powerless and had

you mind, we can call

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

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

you for understanding," Heather forced out

knew about Sebastian seeing her

it up herself, she hoped to handle the situation

"To protect my reputation, I agreed to marry him. But what I never expected was that the scoundrel was

as we got engaged, he demanded that

that kind of woman and naturally refused him. He then tried to

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

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

years old.

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

like he's in his 20s, but his

least at the early pinnacle stage of

age is definitely well

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

Camden's

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

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

background 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

with boundless potential

talent compensated for her comparatively modest

of their engagement, many women felt envious and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the Stonebrook family's

those who secretly admired Heather,

he paid it no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he

Sebastian invested in a vast

the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by stealth or force-and then return

to boost the

Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest.

engaged tomorrow at Knott

is for

"Yes, you're

than an attempt to use the Stonebrook family's

"Mr. Wilder, are you planning to

wouldn't I be letting them down?" Sebastian

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

"My father is right. You mustn't

right

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

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your concern, but

clowns. They're not worth worrying

fine. If they dare provoke me, I'll destroy

ie

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

Wilder, please listen to us and don't

If they're out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even

confront them sooner rather than

his group approached the entrance of Knott Estate,

a veil partially hiding

Sebastian

Sebastian nodded.

the Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the banquet. Going there now is like walking into a trap,"

been waiting here just to tell me this?"

into you and thought I'd give you

much about me. Could it be that you've fallen for me?" Sebastian

scoffed and turned to

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

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

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

was marching to his

Knott Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled

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

was overjoyed. After all, by the end of

face was beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning

side-Heather's body had already been seen and touched by

Sebastian.

keeping tabs on Sebastian's

just at that moment,

Make sure he

able to get away, even if

the way, has

make it today. But with the family's third elder and the seventh elder here, dealing with that

again

Sebastian and his companions

he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he spotted

about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he

"Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I can't decide if I should praise your bravery or call you

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

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

"Brat, today next year will be

down, admit your mistakes, gouge out your own eyes, and break your

invitation in his hand and said, "You invited me to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet, here you are, shouting threats. Is this

"I invited you here just

such an idiot. He thinks that just because he came to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden

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

only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian

engagement party. Killing someone might bring bad luck, don't

want to live today, the only way is to

and his

grew furious. "What are you laughing

really don't get it. There are so many good women

woman? You've got some nerve!" Camden

it. This guy must be

slim chance to live. But insulting

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood

unbothered. "Mr. Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I

been practicing

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

day, shevited me

into her room, and tried to seduce

"Shut up!"

interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting nonsense

"Mr. Camden, he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You can't believe a word

I don't believe him. This guy

do you

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

spouting nonsense!" Heather quickly turned to Camden and said, "Camden, he's lying! He's just upset that I broke off the

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

she drugged me that day, I couldn't resist and ended up sleeping with her. But what I didn't expect was that she was using an evil cultivation technique to

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

can

horrified. "Camden, don't listen to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence,

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

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

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

Camden planned to verify everything as soon

as vast

power of a divine grandmaster? Just the aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers said as

Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they were also divine grandmasters, there were

early stage, whereas Septimus was

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

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 than a worn-out shoe

the way, I left a few scratch marks on her

In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks

However, Heather's reaction

everyone stunned. Upon realizing

tricked, Heather was

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

a fool, and he was infuriated by

major families of the southern

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

his released aura alone made

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

as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly

a resounding sound, Septimus'

a pained scream and staggered

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

"What?"

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

strength was beyond

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

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

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

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

also approached Sebastian, his eyes filled with

a favor? I'll have

Kaitlyn from the start. Although her face was

than he had

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

gouges out his own eyes, and breaks both

gouging out his eyes and breaking his

This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone

I

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

realize your strength was

Stonebrook family

your imagination. Gouging out your eyes and breaking your

smiled lightly and replied, "Ms. Gardner,

the habit of

know it's hard

than

say something, but in

worse than death.

were slim, at least Sebastian could die fighting

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook

was seething with rage as he shouted,

I won't be satisfied until I torture you

cripple his cultivation

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

intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on the hard

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

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

quickly before; this is definitely going to be a

Everyone nodded in agreement.

catch the sword!" Camden shouted,

immediately drew it from its sheath. A sharp, clear

through the air, unleashing

feeling as though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their hearts

be the Godslayer

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

expected Camden to carry the Godslayer

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

magical artifact, said to be

Sebastian, empty-handed-what

closed her eyes, unable

taken her virginity, but after calming down

for 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 had acted

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

had come to realize that Sebastian's strength far

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

blinding white blade aura

energy within a few miles surged violently, creating

cultivation slumped to

alive, so

blade was about to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching

To try and

of blood and mangled flesh, the sword stopped dead in its tracks as

"How is this possible?"

and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as they

my god! He caught the Godslayer Blade with his bare hand! This is insane!" "What level is this guy? How can he be this

channeled his energy, trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength, but

over," Sebastian said calmly. With a slight exertion of his

he was

satisfaction. "This sword is not bad. From now on, it's

mix of anger and

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

or be killed. If you think you can

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

with masters of

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

the idiot! Your

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

to kill us?"

afraid as he 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

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

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

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

that he

has stood strong for over a thousand years,

my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then,

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

dare!" Camden

he was already afraid of him. He gathered all the experts from

looked at him with disdain. He

down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed to the ground, trembling

grandmasters struggled to remain standing, their legs

Kill him!" Camden

were filled with terror, they had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting

didn't join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos

a wave of his hand, a tremendous energy burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and the

family had been wiped out in

cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

collapsed to the ground, and

moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed

air,

in the way little Jonathan stepped forward to shield the nervous clerk and decided to

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

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

breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like warm water, leaving her

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

hadn't stepped between 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 her

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

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

the miniature pocket of his blazer and drew out a sleek

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

each ensemble Ivy had chosen started at well over ten thousand,

around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she

minor. A purchase of this scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel gave a single, calm

still did not understand why Jonathan wanted an entire

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

velvet hangers

the other employees watched, envy shining through their fixed

could cover the down payment on a new

more.

and everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal Ivy's triumph, not

Ivy guided

whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a

over eight million." s

would never have taken

Jonathan said, firm as bedrock.

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

tone chimed, she stared at the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy,

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

Ivy, I

set the

toward Ivy. With a flourish worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the mannequin. "Consider this my gift,

"Pass it on to whatever gentleman keeps you

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

apairof

who had listened in silence until now, spoke in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that,

bill, Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast briefing about the ruckus that

silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored

still wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did you have

and pick out a few outfits for Uncle Zachary. This is just a

added, in the privacy of his own mind. Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and

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

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

mood darkened like a

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

Nathaniel had believed the first fib, it was

like an adult compared to

She would never delegate adult shopping

"You've figured

blinked, performing

let out a quiet breath. “When it comes to social-grade

be exposed so fast, and the realization sent a tremor of startled admiration through

you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes could

back and forced a civil smile. "Why

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

then snapped shut.Am I showing it that

his throat. “And exactly where did you pick up

Jon shrugged as if stating

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

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

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

corridor, she almost collided with

behind them, arms loaded

have you two been? And what on earth

intent on inspecting the loot, but

said smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing

excuse had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching

been nice. I was

When have I

and shot Jonathan a pointed

himself to carrying the constipation story on

guess I've been skimping

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

me take you to a doctor, all right? You're far too little to struggle with something

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

his cheeks until his whole

had merely confessed the problem, never imagining the confession

since Cecilia

drink more water. It

always been the model child,

unwilling to yield. "That won't do. Maybe we should buy

the way surgeons announce

all lies you could invent,

need them,” he whispered, the words nearly swallowed

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

opened her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's worth of

they reached home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the small box into

you're not sure how to use

suppositories, despair dropping like a stone

this particular battlefield. He shook his

Mommy. I can

anything." She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming

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

bathroom with you," she said, voice low and gentle, as though sending

"Okay."

box like contraband and bolted down the hallway toward

He watched his brother's

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

mild but warning stare. "Don't

his chest, trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of pitiful," he breathed, each syllable

her hands. “Come on," she

you have to take tons

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

the little photoshoot ended, she pinged

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

short clips of the boys

in return, video-called often to check on the children

seemed to find

be able to come back for a

belonged to the Rainsworths, so her

We'll come right

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

while longer, then finally

Elliot collapsed onto

and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags

against the couch, eyelids drooping, intent on

"Ceci."

in surprise.

this all we're doing today?" His question

do you mean?"

Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing," he

weight of his displeasure sit plainly on his face. Cecilia finally read the room. Something inside Nathaniel was

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

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

could

arms swept out

swift, possessive

against his chest, as though

have to

gravel, every syllable vibrating through the scant

face. Her blush deepened

it, let me go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and

settling atop her

two married people holding each other? They're not babies anymore.

"Not babies? They're

seven when I moved overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words

genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left

for Elliot and

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

།

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

the pad of his finger

"Hmm?"

can't stand to be apart from the kids, yet you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like I'm

did it click. Her proud, composed husband was jealous of his own

course, the kids outrank you. I

a storm

twisted free of Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the hallway,

stunned that she would dare make a break for it, then sprang up and covered the distance

the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice low and

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

he slipped inside, scooped her up again, and kicked

deadbolt turned,

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

glare slicing through the

find Nathaniel's face less than an inch

faint roughness,

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open, hazy

even closer

Her voice came out in a whisper,

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

a full

only tightened his arms and mumbled, "Give me a few more minutes. Keep

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

when were you this attached? I never noticed

grin tugged at his mouth.

his hair, dark strands springing up beneath her

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

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

shook her head.

he asked, still unwilling to release

Mom, and something nice

else?” His tone carried a note of suspicion

"Nope."

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

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

sensed the heaviness under the words but misread the cause. He just hates it when I leave

ceiling until

through quiet hallways, and

1.

and Elliot off to

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

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

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

red. He spun toward

own kin had mocked her-Beatrix

now, of all people, it was Alex-the outcast,

seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the old

this one had

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

The room fell silent.

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

a smug grin that made her blood

exhaled sharply through her nose, lips curling into a sneer. "Go on, Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag

a thousand of you. She's fighting to lift this family up, while you bury it in arrogance and shame. You're

A disgrace?" Beatrix's face turned crimson. "You're the half-slave here, Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle

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

sit here sneering. Tell me, Beatrix-what's your real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking your own grandmother's

what I meant! I just think

and dangerous. "No, you're not being realistic-you're being a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up as wisdom. And you know what they say: hell's full

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

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

"Fine. You think I'm scared?

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

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

a half-smile.

me in too! If

on her, raising a brow.

crossed her arms, chin lifted. "I won't lose. But fine-I'll play along. What

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

really digging your

"If you lose, I want you to divorce

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

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.

he said. "I like it when everyone

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

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

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

Sofina frowned, glancing out the window. "You really think Grandma

"Trust? No.

a look. "That's supposed to

comfort, talk to someone

I bet on your

a brow. "You really think this bet will prove

who's

crossed her arms. "And what if

right

spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind was sharp.

they'd won from Nikolaus-a machine so rare in Winchester that it turned heads

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

the wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy for a

Your grandmother and mother

can."

frowned, glancing at him. "You really think

sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when

half amused. "I wish

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

smile softened as the car descended toward the Eden Group's towering

Sofina whispered as the

luck's already doubled," he said lightly "Remember

QUMS

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

something

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

was like a beggar asking a banker to

grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front

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

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

The

all every one

of them was hono

the same thing: a coffaboration with

on earth are you doing here?"

and found Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim, both

lips tightened the way a judge's did

sentence.

you let her walk in here?" Heinrich bowed his head like a man forced to swallow bile. "I'm sorry, Katarina. I tried. I truly did. I don't understand how she keeps

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

was still buttoning up his Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone

a guest-he forced her out into the entrance area. Do

me the

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

collar, pulled on his gloves, and strode out toward

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

said quietly, helping her pick them up.

matter what I say, he just

Alex asked, gently lifting her chin, checking for

nothing serious,"

don't need to print everything. The digital

"Maybe. But I like the feel of paper. I

hand brushed his chest. "The same way I like

"You really

than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes I think it'd be better to live without all

they walked back through the glass

voice cracked

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

froze. The color drained from

saw it-the invisible chain that still

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

himself between Sofina and

"You're a guest. You have no

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

king?" Alex let out a low, sharp laugh. "Keep dreaming. You're not a king- you're just another

hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener. When

brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found

over and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor

derisive snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out. Frankly, Eden Group doesn't

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

the man. Your gardener.

"I've never seen you before. Are you pretending to be one of our

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

forget your place. I'm Dietrich

you anytime I want. Now, you've offended

Kneel and beg

the one who tried to

is? He's one of the brightest minds in Winchester-soon to join the

if he's not joining?"

deserves your respect. You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I

Alex said calmly, shaking his head.

be fired if you don't!" Dietrich

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

to me. Three kowtows,

started to gather, drawn by the rising tension.

stand up to

got a name. You know who

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing off. He's too stupid to

smirked and turned

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

who doesn't

bows, and I might

tightened around Alex's

"If you don't, I'll make sure everyone in Winchester hears about this. You have offended

I'll have

the Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing outcasts. And

s

but Sofina grabbed him tighter and shook her

was soft but steady. "Let

her face. She met his eyes.

stepped forward alone.Chapter

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

curse.

name do you think you're doing, bitch!"

robot - fetch her, give her twenty lashes, then

with a hand at the small

She won't be standing after that her flesh will

Heinrich said, every syllable a command. "Give her

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

one who'll get hurt

"Security — attend. Punish

tilted his head. "I

crowd began to close

hit

you know Heinrich's

her!" another voice

ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses swept over

moment the system flagged a threat to her, an alert raced

in the room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina had left at home,

had wired her into his

Alex's accounts and every linked node. Any device that touched Sofina reported to Eve first-she was Sofina's guardian in

into the network. "Override the previous command.

robot optical sensors swung