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?"

consequence to you. All you need to know is that you are nothing but ants in my eyes, something easily crushed at my

he had said this earlier, everyone would have thought he was boasting. But now,

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

who instantly

sound defiant. "I'm warning you. I'm an apprentice of the Netherworld Sect. My mentor

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

manipulate objects from a distance, but usually no further than

her toward him effortlessly. This display of

Heather by the

doing, Sebastian?" Heather asked, both angry

a loud smack, Sebastian slapped her hard across the face and sneered. "What

will never

thought you had some brains, but it seems

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 me with your mentor-how

your mentor Bertha were here, she wouldn't be able to save you because, in my eyes, she's nothing

delusional! My mentor is one of the Grand Elders of the

had pleaded for help from her mentor, Bertha,

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

was determined to make this father-daughter

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

just ants," Sebastian replied

don't underestimate them, Mr. Wilder,"

wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence rooted in his

the speed of carrier pigeons and their giant birds that

two hours had passed, and still

seems your mentor won't be

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

wouldn't have let you

fine.

destroying a powerful sect as casually as

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

they had heard him before, they would have dismissed it

severely injured Martin in a

last words before you die?" Sebastian

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

die."

one night together? You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then tossed me off a cliff ff thadn't been lucky,

still too young and made a terrible mistake in a moment of weakness. I truly know I was wrong now.

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

her beaten severely, and even tried to humiliate my wife. Such malice-how could I

my doing! It was Sean acting on his

It had nothing to do with me," Heather quickly tried

for her. When it all happened, Heather was

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

intent.

belongs to s

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

of

against each

silently agreed, thinking that forcing them to choose would

simply

the survivor would

I'm giving you one minute to decide. IfChapter

full of fear

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

us go, and just

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

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

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 your

teeth, feeling as if his

of gold, Sebastian only asked for gold

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

and left after receiving

was merciful, but

Sebastian followed Hendrick to the

ask you for

to be so formal.

only healed his wounds, which saved his life, but also helped him break through his

Hendrick considered

strength to

to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then drew an image

wasn't a professional artist, his drawing was remarkably

the woman in

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

eyes. It was hard

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

in the drawing

her own

circumstances and timing of Fressia's

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

stayed at the chamber, waiting for updates. He

for some people to

assigned Brork to protect

terrifying power first

word of refusal. He was

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

can't swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter

Heather and asked, "Are you

is an outstanding man. Of course

and then ask the Stonebrook

daughter then stepped out to greet

large numbers, bringing an

a dignified middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook

of about 26 years old. Though his appearance was average, he had

our humble Knott

Knott, you're too

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

is as beautiful as a goddess, and today I see the reputation

But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left her, like they were

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

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

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

Heather could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would be like a

the Stonebrook family's cultivation resources, her strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only

place among

Denzel smiled a

"My son

once not long ago, and

first sight

he lost

his appetite and many.

his father, I became

Cóntent

speaking, he clapped his hands,

gold coins. They were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of

though smaller,

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

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

enough, making them extremely scarce in the market. When Martin and Heather heard about

improve physical constitution, extend life,

accelerated their training

said proudly, "Mr. Knott, are you

satisfied. Extremely satisfied,

mean you agree to their

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

feeling shy, but she was overjoyed inside. With the future title of daughter-in-law

on the wedding date, setting it for a year later.

strength is formidable and who is

could cause trouble for you. Who

a scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's just

commoner.

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

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

call off the engagement, Mr.

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

I don't mind.

understanding," Heather forced out

was part of her clever strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing

herself, she hoped to handle the

what I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but a

soon as we got engaged, he

kind of woman and naturally refused him. He then tried to force himself on me, but luckily,

furious, smashing the table in front of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares to

strong. Even

years

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

like he's in his 20s,

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

real age is definitely well

scoffed. "Isn't he just an early-stage

Heather and Camden's engagement

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

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

Heather's family background wasn't on par with the

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

boundless potential and

talent compensated for her comparatively

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

who secretly admired Heather,

was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't want her even if

gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested

stage of the

now to boost the cultivation of those around

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 sent over an

of them is for me, I

nodded. "Yes,

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

"Mr. Wilder, are

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

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

is right.

right into

a bunch of petty clowns. There's

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

"I appreciate your concern,

They're not worth

alone, fine. If they dare provoke

ie

families in the southern region, even stronger

added, "Mr. Wilder, please listen to

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

to confront them sooner rather

his group approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman suddenly

with a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was Kaitlyn, the distinguished

you need from me?" Sebastian asked.

Sebastian nodded.

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

waiting here just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked

into you and thought I'd give you a friendly warning,"

so much about me.

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed

Gardner says so,

With your talent, you're destined to become a peerless force in

No more advice, please,"

shook their heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to his

Knott Estate, the atmosphere was festive

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

of the day, Heather was overjoyed. After all, by the end of today, she would be the future daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family-who would dare to

Heather a woman both stunning and neredibly talented was something

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

Sebastian.

been keeping tabs on Sebastian's

that moment,

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

is in place. He won't be able to get away, even if

in satisfaction. "By the

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

again in

and his companions entered Knott

Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he

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

gritting her teeth. "Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I can't decide if I should

"This place isn't exactly a dragon's lair. Why wouldn't I

coldly. "Stop playing dumb. Since you've come today,

today next

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

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 how you treat

your mind?" Camden sneered. "I invited

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

Ms. Knott's reputation. Mr. Camden would never let him live. I can't tell if this guy is

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

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

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

and his smile was full of

immediately grew furious. "What are

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

my woman? You've got some nerve!"

lost it. This

he might have had a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now he's probably

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking ready to strike

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

been practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

energy to

day, shevited me

Estate, lured me into her

"Shut up!"

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

he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You can't believe a

don't believe him. This guy has slandered my woman-this is unforgivable!Chapter

do you

male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me, but I wasn't

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

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

up sleeping with her. But what I didn't expect was that she was using an evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me

right in front of me... you've got some

telling the 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 me as you wish," Sebastian

listen to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be a

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

stared at Heather for a long moment, and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he

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

for Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as soon as the

as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it hard for

to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers said as

like Korbin and Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they were

was a middle-stage

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

me to shut up, but I'll still keep talking. Heather is nothing more than a worn-out shoe I've

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

instinctively covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian

However, Heather's reaction

everyone stunned.

tricked, Heather

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

wasn't a fool, and he

families of

a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power

his move, the pressure from his released aura alone made

But there was little they could do; they

Just as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered,

sound,

a pained

chased him down

"What?"

stage divine

was beyond

were the most shocked. Not long

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

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

was equally shocked and enraged, and she yelled, "Sebastian, he's from the Stonebrook family! If you dare

approached Sebastian, his eyes filled with

favor? I'll have him

start. Although her face was hidden,

even more enticing than he

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

own eyes, and breaks

gouging out his eyes and breaking his hands a bit

my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone that

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

some death trap. Why shouldn't I

strength was so formidable, but you still can't

Stonebrook

and breaking your hands is the

replied, "Ms. Gardner, I

not in the habit of

hard to accept, but

to five miserably than to

oh my..." Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but in

for a strong person, losing both eyes and hands was a fate worse than

were slim, at

"Septimus!"

of the Stonebrook family erupted

as he shouted,

I won't be satisfied until I

cripple his cultivation for

He was already walking toward Sebastian, his

forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on

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

stage of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability to

is? He struck so quickly

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Camden shouted, tossing a long sword to

the sword and immediately drew it from its sheath. A

air, unleashing

as though

the Godslayer Blade

family's Godslayer Blade. Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with it, they rarely met an equal. As long as one wields the Godslayer Blade, their combat strength instantly rises

Camden to carry the Godslayer

doomed now. With the added power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage

agreement. The Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier

was Sebastian,

her eyes, unable

had taken her virginity,

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 to save her.

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

that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't

kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her entire Netherworld Sect would dare provoke

he swung his sword, a blinding

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

weaker cultivation slumped to the ground while

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

was about to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out to grab

try and

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

"How is this possible?"

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

hand! This is insane!" "What level is this guy? How can he

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

slight exertion of his

if he was jolted by

in satisfaction. "This sword is not

Trey shouted in a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists

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

be killed. If you think you can kill me, I

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

don't get too cocky! The Stonebrook family's power is beyond anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top experts

pair of idiots. You two really are made for each

idiot! Your whole family

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

You really plan to kill

both angry and afraid as he said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family

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

he spoke. By the end, his voice was thunderous, sending shivers down everyone's

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

down on him and thought that he was lying. However, after witnessing Sebastian's terrifying strength, everyone was very afraid of

Our family has stood strong for over a thousand years, with countless divine grandmasters and

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 you won't even have a

I end up in

you dare!"

him. He gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as they were ready to flee at

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

an instant, the oppressive force weighed down on everyone present. Those below

to remain standing, their legs quivering with

him!"

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

the fray. Instead, he used the chaos

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

Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a

cake. The

was terrifying.

and her face

Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her by the

leapt into the air,

forward to shield the nervous clerk and decided to let

voice quiet yet carrying the weight

hard the tight bun at the back of

spread through her limbs like warm water, leaving

moment 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

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

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

one thanking you," he replied, voice clear

that, Jonathan slipped a hand into the miniature pocket of his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added, "Every outfit you

thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened,

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

around the card, uncertainty flickering

this scale required his

an entire rack of adult clothing,

course," she said, nearly

sweeping the garments from velvet hangers into satin-lined

the showroom, the other employees watched, envy shining through

cover the down payment on a new car,

more.

everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one

Ivy guided Nathaniel

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

over eight million." s

never have taken a

firm

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

she stared at the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy, it

for choosing us." Ivy presented the card with both hands, as though returning a

it with matching courtesy. "Ms. Ivy,

set the

indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the mannequin.

marble. "Pass it on to whatever gentleman keeps you company."

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

apairof

baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is

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

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

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

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

Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best friend would never check up on this, so the story is

"Your Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts

Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci

darkened like a sky

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

first fib, it was only

Nathaniel, Jonathan appeared more like an adult compared

She would never delegate adult shopping

sharpened. "You've figured

blinked, performing innocent

breath. “When it comes to social-grade lying, you're

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

a theatrical sigh. “Are you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes could study every flicker on Nathaniel's

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

Mom bought clothes for me and Elliot, but none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally direct in the way only

shut.Am I showing

“And exactly where

face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as if

weight on his chest. If even a child

Cecilia grew uneasy when the restroom door stayed shut far too

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

she almost collided with

trailing behind them, arms loaded

two been? And what

stepped forward, intent on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel

smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing

had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching the hole as fast

would have been nice. I was

When have I ever

cleared his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look.

carrying the constipation story

I guess I've been skimping on water lately," Jon

She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him

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

Only a woman who has carried a child, nursed him through colic

up without warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks until his whole

imagining the confession would buy him

Cecilia had hugged him

I'll be fine if I drink more water. It

model child, obedient, courteous, eager to spare

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

the way surgeons

silent misery. Great, sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you could invent, you picked constipation. Now Mom believes it

I don't need them,” he whispered, the words

eyes soft with pity for the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess

phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a

like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed

embarrassed. If you're not sure how to use

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

earth would he let Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his head so hard his hair

can

you can. You can handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every gesture

couldn't help pitying him. So young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If it lasted,

you," she said, voice

"Okay."

contraband and bolted down the hallway toward the

lounged with a plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why, felt sweat break

sure doesn't look it," Elliot

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

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

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

have to take tons of super-cool photos

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

photoshoot ended, she pinged the piChapter

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

take root, she sent them daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the boys chasing

in return, video-called often to

by little, life seemed to find its

to come back

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

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

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

good while longer, then finally ended the

Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their beds, fast asleep

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

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

"Ceci."

surprise. "What is

we're doing today?" His question

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

clouded Nathaniel's eyes.

room. Something inside Nathaniel

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

closer, the scent of

she could

arms

swift, possessive

his chest, as though staking a

really have

with gravel, every

Cecilia's face. Her blush

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

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

be awkward about two married people holding each other? They're not babies anymore. They should

her eyes, she muttered, "Not babies? They're only six-maybe seven- years

on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low, laced with a faint, almost childish

slipping past her

grunted an affirmative, then an idea lit behind his eyes. "Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build some resilience. It'll give us more space

hesitated, heart squeezing. "They're too little, Nathaniel. Besides, Elliot's just regained his health,

།

Jonathan, let him stay with Old Mr. Sinclair

the pad of his finger brushing her burning cheek. “You're

"Hmm?"

you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for

then did it click. Her proud, composed husband was

she could suppress it. "Of course, the kids outrank you. I

a storm gathering

free of Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the hallway, bare feet whispering across

she would dare make a break for it,

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

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

With a gentle shove, he

latch clicked, the deadbolt turned,

against the windows, but inside, heat pooled between their

in a burst of white light, snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting the room in chilled

an

over that faint roughness, then lower to the soft

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open, hazy with

he murmured, drawing her even closer

breathe.” Her voice came

by a fraction, closed his eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just a little longer." "It's already nine. We really have to get

her best friends a full day

"Give me a few more minutes. Keep

how clingy he could be, warmth and weight

were you this attached? I never noticed

his mouth.

his hair, dark

busy day ahead," she said, trying to slip from his

her hand again. "Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends,

shook her head. "That's it.

buying?” he asked,

New clothes for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa

a note of suspicion wrapped in

"Nope."

studied Nathaniel with a puzzled tilt of her head. He had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet

by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose,

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

smaller once the door clicked shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like a weight on his ribs Sleep had scattered, and there was no coaxing

padded through quiet hallways,

1.

spirited Jon and Elliot off

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

think the Wolfsbane family had any chance of working

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

burned red. He spun toward the Baroness. “I—I

fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix

Alex-the outcast, the family fool-who stood up for

the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with

this one

cowards! Every last one of you! From this moment on,

The room fell silent.

she

arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin

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

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

Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle worker? That she's going to save

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

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

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

coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not

a fool

chuckled—a deep, mocking sound that filled the room. "Then let's make this interesting. What

crossed her arms. "Fine. You think I'm

main estate. If Sofina pulls this

said through clenched teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want both of you out of the Wolfsbane family-for

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

too! If I win, I want

her, raising a brow. "Alright. But

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

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

really digging your own grave, loser!

"If you lose,

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

you can win this? I've already recorded the bet

"I like

She couldn't care less about their childish

one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family

three days to negotiate

the window. "You really think Grandma trusts me with

"Trust? No.

"That's supposed to make me feel

someone who hasn't

least I bet on

arched a brow. "You really think

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

"And what

chuckled. "Then I'll finally fit right in with this family-bad decisions and

clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent

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

said uneasily, watching the reflections glide across the car's polished hood, “we should return

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

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

can."

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

without looking away from the road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up.

head, half anxious, half

That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you miss, you'll

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

Sofina whispered as the

your luck's already doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener of the Eden Group. That means you've got an insideron your side."

QUMS

For a moment, her nerves eased. She wished

felt something empty out inside her-like a room with the

into the sky like a polished god. The idea that

to partner with them was like a beggar

the challenge in front of the whole house. There

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

low but tense, each

Group. The sight said

all every one

of them was hono

a coffaboration

are you doing here?"

turned and found Heinrich standing

lips tightened the way a judge's

sentence.

thousand times-get this sort of woman away from my sight. How could 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 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

fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group.

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

asked us to monitor was just shoved by a guest-he

me the footage,"

Sofina's arm, dragging her down the hallway

collar, pulled on his gloves, and strode out toward

on the floor, gathering a

he said quietly, helping her pick them

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

you?" Alex asked, gently

serious," she

know, you don't need to print everything.

"Maybe. But I like the feel of

his chest. "The same way

chuckled. "You really are

than data in a file. You made me

walked back through the glass corridor

a voice cracked

"What the hell are you doing here? I told you

The color

saw it-the invisible chain that

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

forward, placing himself

"You're a

"A gardener telling me how to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like a

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

face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should

his arm. "Let's go. Don't give him anything. He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes

resources, hurried over and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you joined our efforts-Winchester's finest

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

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

said coldly. "That's the man. Your gardener. He

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

as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt officially registered, the security

seem to forget your place. I'm Dietrich

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

and beg for

the one who tried to throw out

any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one

not joining?"

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

shaking his head. "I

if you don't!" Dietrich

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 kowtows,

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

jeered. "A gardener trying to stand up

joined in. "That gardener's got

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's

smirked and turned to

been desperate for my

fool who doesn't know his place. How

bows, and I might forgive

hand tightened around Alex's arm, her knuckles

make sure everyone in

have the

you'll be nothing outcasts. And you know I

s

him

steady. "Let me handle

hesitated, searching her face. She met his eyes.

stepped forward

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

curse.

do you think you're doing,

Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her,

supporting him with a hand at

won't be standing after

a command.

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

who'll get hurt is

"Security — attend.

head. "I warned

began

she hit

know Heinrich's the man

another voice

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

system flagged a threat to her,

the household robot Sofina had

Alex had wired her into his network bridge so she could talk to

that touched Sofina reported to Eve first-she was Sofina's guardian in the

previous command. Secure Dietrich

optical sensors swung toward