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?"

Sebastian sneered. "Who I am is of no consequence to you. All you need to know is that you are nothing but ants in my eyes, something easily crushed at my whim!"

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

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

Sebastian then turned his gaze toward Heather, who instantly paled. Terror was evident on her face.

"Sebastian, what are you planning to do?" Heather stammered, trying to sound defiant. "I'm warning you. I'm an apprentice of the Netherworld Sect. My mentor is Bertha Erikson! If you dare to touch me, she will hunt you down and kill you!"

Sebastian sneered at her words. With a flick of his wrist, Heather was unable to resist and was suddenly pulled toward him.

Everyone present was stunned. They knew that a divine grandmaster could manipulate objects from a distance, but usually no further than 10 feet and not with heavy objects. However,

Heather was over 15 feet away, and Sebastian still managed to pull her toward him effortlessly. This display of power was far beyond their comprehension.

Heather by the neck once

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

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

will never let you get away with this!" she

mocking smile. "I thought you had

with anger. Sebastian's cold laugh echoed. "Even now, you don't understand

your mentor Bertha were here, she wouldn't be able to save you because,

the Grand Elders of the Netherworld Sect! She has

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

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

make this father-daughter duo

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

just ants," Sebastian replied

don't underestimate them,

unfazed. It wasn't arrogance but confidence,

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

had passed, and

seems your mentor won't be coming," Sebastian

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

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

after me, fine. But

of destroying a powerful sect as casually

confidence was this? How strong did one have to be to have

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

they had just witnessed him severely injured Martin in a single move-it

have any last words before you

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

die."

still dare to mention our one night together? You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe

I was wrong now. Please give me a chance to change. I'll devote myself to you and serve you well as

Let's set the fact

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

wasn't my doing! It was Sean

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

in, "She's right, I can vouch for her. When it all happened, Heather was at the Netherworld Sect. She didn't know anything

but I don't believe he acted alone. If it wasn't her, then it must've

intent.

belongs to s

quickly denied, "It wasn't

definitely either one of you. So, you can choose who

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

thinking that forcing

simply killing

survivor would live

one minute

full of

want to die, but he also couldn't

us go, and

and said, "Alright. I'll give you

million gold coins? Why don't you just rob a bank?" Martin nearly jumped up in

were enough for someone to live comfortably for a lifetime. One

you're unwilling to pay one million, that's fine. I can just kill your daughter, and

I'll pay!" Martin gritted his teeth,

gold, Sebastian only asked

long after, Martin handed Sebastian ten

kept his word and left after receiving the

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

Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton Chamber

I'd like to ask you for a

"Mr. Wilder, there's no need to be so formal. Just tell me what

grown even deeper. Sebastian not only healed his wounds, which saved his life, but also helped him

debt that Hendrick considered a second chance

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

requested paper and a pen,

professional artist, his drawing was remarkably

in the picture

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

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

confident in herself, but after seeing the

in the drawing

matching her own beauty.

the circumstances and

her immediately. I'm sure we'll have news soon," Hendrick assured

Sebastian stayed at the chamber, waiting for updates. He

for some people to take care of

he assigned Brork to protect

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

was completely subdued, with no

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

I just can't swallow

asked, "Are you willing to marry

Camden is an outstanding man. Of

ask the Stonebrook family to deal with that little bastard!" Martin said

daughter then stepped out to

large numbers, bringing an abundance

the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top

Though his appearance was average, he had an impressive presence;

Camden, your arrival truly graces our humble

Knott, you're too kind.

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

your daughter is as beautiful as

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

to keep staring at

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

not angry at all. In fact, she

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

surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only a matter of

might even secure a place among the four great

Denzel smiled a

said, "My son

once not long ago,

love at first sight for him.

he lost

his appetite and many.

I became anxious, soove brought him here

Cóntent

clapped his hands, and the

jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs, a box of antique paintings, a box of aged wine, and a box of

though smaller,

thousand gold coins, a box of top-grade

gone all out.

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

could cleanse the body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and greatly enhance

warriors, these pills significantly improved their constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even helped them

"Mr. Knott, are you satisfied with the Stonebrook

Extremely satisfied,

you agree to

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

feeling shy, but she was overjoyed inside. With the future title of

settled on the wedding date, setting it for a

whose strength is formidable and who is extremely arrogant.

who could cause trouble for you. Who might this

"It's a scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder.

commoner.

Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later,

powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not

you mind, we can call off the engagement, Mr.

eyes. "I heard about this incident too, but

don't mind.

Camden, thank you for understanding," Heather forced out a

people already knew about Sebastian seeing

she hoped to handle the

reputation, I agreed to marry him. But what I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing

he demanded that I sleep

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

of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares

that scoundrel is very strong. Even my

replied, "I heard he should be under 30 years old. How could he be

lifespans increase. There

in his 20s,

in agreement. "That's right. That brat's cultivation is at least at the early pinnacle stage

is definitely well over

"Isn't he just an early-stage divine grandmaster? That's

of Heather and Camden's engagement spread

four major families of the

decent status as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it was still far from matching

family background wasn't on par with the

remarkable. The Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on

a genius with boundless

beauty and talent compensated for her comparatively

After all, becoming the Stonebrook family's daughter-in-law was like ascending

admired Heather, were equally

it no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her

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

third stage of the

wanted to stockpile pills now to boost the cultivation of

exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest.

Heather and Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've sent over an invitation," Hendrick

One of them is for me,

"Yes, you're

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

Wilder, are

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

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

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

walking right into

of petty clowns. There's nothing

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

"I appreciate your concern,

clowns. They're

leave me alone, fine. If they dare provoke me, I'll

ie

the southern region, even stronger than the Netherworld Sect.

added, "Mr. Wilder, please listen to

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

confront them sooner rather than

his group approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman

hiding her stunning beauty-it was Kaitlyn, the

something you need from me?" Sebastian asked. "Are you heading to the engagement banquet?"

Sebastian nodded.

you at the banquet. Going there now is like

just to tell me this?" Sebastian

I just happened to run into you

you to care so much about me. Could it

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed and turned

Wilder, if Ms. Gardner says so, then it's

as you're alive. With your talent, you're destined to become

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

to his doom. All they could probably do now was

Knott Estate, the atmosphere was festive

by sending Korbin and his

of the main figures of the day, Heather was overjoyed. After all, by the end of today, she would be the future daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook

face was beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning and neredibly

body had already been seen and touched by Sebastian So the only way to remove

Sebastian.

been keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and his

moment, "Mr. Camden,

all the exits once he enters. Make sure he doesn't escape," Camden ordered with a

be able to get away, even if

nodded in satisfaction. "By the way, has my father

won't make it today. But with the family's third elder and the seventh elder here, dealing with that brat will be

again in

that moment, Sebastian and his companions entered

he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed

Stonebrook family's

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

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

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

a mocking smile. "Brat, today next year will be your death

down,

invitation in his hand and said, "You invited me to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate

invited you here just

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

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

people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had

is your engagement

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

his smile

immediately grew furious. "What are you laughing at, you

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

You've got some

it. This

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

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

practicing

cultivation technique, one that

energy to

One day, shevited me

me into her room, and tried

"Shut up!"

Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting nonsense and tarnishing

he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You

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

do you have?" Camden

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

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

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

evil cultivation technique to absorb my

slander my woman right in

you don't believe me, you can have her

don't listen to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be

"Camden, this guy has

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

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

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

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

this is the power of a divine grandmaster? Just the aura alone is enough to make me

Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they

the early stage, whereas Septimus was a middle-stage divine grandmaster, significantly

some sense in you,

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

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

at his words and instinctively covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing she

Heather

I swear I'll

fool, and he was infuriated by the Chapter

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

middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power

released aura alone made it hard for anyone nearby to

worry. But there was little they could do;

as quickly as lightning as his hand reached out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed he would succeed,

a resounding sound,

let out a pained

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

"What?"

erupted into chaos. Everyone was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been

was beyond

were the most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian had participated in the Netherworld Sect's

a warrior. After all, if he were a

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

she yelled, "Sebastian, he's from the Stonebrook family! If you dare

approached Sebastian, his eyes

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

from the start. Although her face was

even more enticing than he had

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

his own eyes, and breaks both his

"Mr. Camden, isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking his hands a bit too

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

I warn

isn't some death trap. Why

your strength was so formidable, but you still can't

The Stonebrook

your eyes and breaking your hands is the best

lightly and replied, "Ms. Gardner, I appreciate your kindness,

not in the habit

know it's hard

five miserably than

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

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

at least

"Septimus!"

of the Stonebrook

as he shouted,

Septimus? I won't be satisfied

his cultivation

was already walking toward Sebastian, his aura growing increasingly

each step forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall

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

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

quickly before; this is definitely going to be a

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted,

drew it from its sheath. A

through the air, unleashing a wave

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

Godslayer Blade of

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

They hadn't expected Camden to carry the

With the added power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand against Trey Defeating Sebastian will

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

here was Sebastian,

closed her eyes, unable to bear watching Sebastian's

she deeply resented the man who had taken her virginity, but after

scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young

This was

strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't need her protection at

that moment, she felt completely powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family.

of divine grandmaster Trey wielded the Godslayer Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with

the energy within a few miles surged violently,

weaker cultivation slumped to the ground while

alive, so his sword's target

strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out to grab

his expression filled with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with

palm. However, instead of the expected sight of

"How is this possible?"

present was equally stunned

with his bare hand! This is insane!"

trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He

exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey

he was jolted by

examined the Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not bad. From

a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a

"You actually dared to kill two of

think you can kill me, I can also kill you. It's

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

is beyond anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill.

of idiots. You two really are made for each other,"

idiot! Your whole family is!"

to shout at me. If that's not foolishness, I

kill us?" Heather was suddenly

to kill me, our family

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

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

one could believe how

thought that he was lying. However, after witnessing Sebastian's terrifying strength, everyone was very

are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over

can fight us alone? Hand over the Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might

I end up in a grave, you won't

dare!"

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

disdain. He took a

down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed

grandmasters struggled to remain

him!"

had no choice

Instead, he used the chaos to

boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent flying. Before they even

Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a single

The sheer

was terrifying.

ground, and her face became pale

that moment, Martin rushed toward Heather.

air, attempting to escape.Chapter

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

voice quiet yet carrying the

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

spread through her limbs like warm water, leaving her almost

had dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful

Ivy hadn't stepped between danger and the child, the day would have ended in chaos

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

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

I should be the one thanking you,"

his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added, "Every outfit you brought me earlier,

a clap of thunder. Jaws

well over ten thousand, yet this child intended to buy the lot without

the card, uncertainty flickering

of this scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel

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

"Of course,"

from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags with

the showroom, the other employees watched, envy shining through

the

more.

understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal

guided

register, she leaned down, voice barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one

over eight million." s

hadn't asked her, Ivy would never have taken a job

Jonathan said, firm

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

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

for choosing us." Ivy presented the card

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

clerk finally set the receipt

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

marble. "Pass it on to

wonder, then alarm. A quick shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's far too

apairof

in silence until now, spoke in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you ever hit a rough patch, come to me—no

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

silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts,

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

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

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

expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts you,"

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

like a

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

had believed the first fib, it was only because Vivian's

more like an

never delegate adult shopping

"You've figured something out, haven't

blinked,

it comes to social-grade lying, you're still

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

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

"Why would I be?" he countered, voice calm yet

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

snapped shut.Am

his throat. “And exactly where did you pick up

Jon shrugged as if

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

the restroom door stayed shut

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

in the corridor, she almost collided

them, arms loaded

And

inspecting the loot,

he said smoothly.

painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching the hole as

nice. I was starting to wonder

Jonathan gaped, utterly bewildered. When have I ever been

shot Jonathan a pointed look.

himself to carrying the constipation story on

skimping on water

an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him into a full-

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

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

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

confessed the problem, never imagining the confession

ages since Cecilia had hugged

I'll be fine if I drink more

model child,

yield. "That won't do. Maybe we should

it with earnest gravity, the way surgeons

Of all lies you could invent, you picked constipation.

honestly, Mommy, I don't need them,” he whispered, the words nearly swallowed by the

soft with pity for the boy and a glimmer of amused

phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered

home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in

embarrassed. If you're not sure how to use them, I

Jonathan stared at the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair

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

I can manage on my

handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every

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

said, voice low and gentle, as though sending him

"Okay."

clutched the box like contraband and

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

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

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

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

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

you have to take tons of super-cool

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

ended, she pinged the piChapter

in place, but Cecilia saw

clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug, photos of uneaten cookies, and funny anecdotes typed

video-called often to check

life seemed

you and the children be able to

Cecilia now belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side of

fingers flew across the keyboard. "Nathaniel and I have decided. We'll come right after the

Your grandpa and I will prepare every one of your favorite dishes,"

while longer, then finally ended the call with a reluctant

the final outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto

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

eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five minutes

"Ceci."

jerked in surprise. "What

doing today?" His question hovered,

do you mean?" Confusion knitted

eyes. "Nothing,"

of his displeasure sit plainly on his face. Cecilia finally read the room. Something

earlier cheer. "What's the matter?

closer, the scent of cedar from his

could

long arms

possessive

his chest, as though staking a

have to

came out rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every

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

let me go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks

her hair as if the conversation

other? They're not babies anymore.

"Not babies? They're only six-maybe seven- years

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

genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left the

them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend

too little, Nathaniel. Besides, Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps Old Mr. Sinclair company

།

full team to watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let him stay

his finger

"Hmm?"

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 dead last in that beautiful heart of

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

kids

storm gathering

down the hallway, bare feet whispering

a break for it, then sprang up

the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice low and teasing. "Why

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

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

deadbolt turned, and darkness

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

a burst of white light, snow glare slicing through the

than an inch

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

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open,

murmured, drawing her even

came out in a whisper, pressed

"Stay. Just a little longer." "It's already nine. We

a full day

only tightened his arms and mumbled, "Give

now did Cecilia realize how clingy he could be, warmth and weight wrapped around her like

you this

his mouth. "I was

his hair, dark strands springing up beneath her

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

the

head.

are you buying?” he asked,

for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa

note of suspicion

"Nope."

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

darkened by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat. “Fine.

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

the ceiling until the silence felt

through quiet

1.

Jon and Elliot

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

could think the Wolfsbane family had any chance of working

"Baroness Wolfsbane," he called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with half a brain for daring to ask

burned red. He spun

Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her so-called pride, had done nothing

people, it was Alex-the outcast,

Sofina. She'd never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the old woman's

least this one had

"You're cowards! Every last one of you!

The room fell silent.

she said. "I'll

his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin that made her blood

a sneer. "Go on, Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag the rest of us

"Beatrix, Sofina's worth a thousand of you. She's fighting to lift this family up, while you bury it in

Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle worker?

that even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's

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

just think it's impossible

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 of

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

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

I'm scared? Name your

estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is

through clenched teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I

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

in too! If

gaze on her, raising a brow.

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

"Since you love calling me a half-slave, how about this—if you lose, you kneel

"Ha! You're really digging your

Felicia said. "If you lose, I

said calmly. "But if I win, you'll accept our marriage-

cruel sound. "You really think you can win this? I've already recorded the bet and sent the document to the

smirked. "Perfect," he said. "I like it

She couldn't

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

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

frowned, glancing out the window. "You really

smirked. "Trust? No.

shot him a look. "That's

talk to someone who hasn't met

"Hey, at least I bet on your

"You really think

who's got

arms. "And what if you

fit right

the passenger seat, clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired,

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

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

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

Your grandmother

can."

"You really think

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

shook her head, half anxious, half amused.

said, his grin widening. "You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you

the car descended toward the Eden Group's

me luck," Sofina whispered as the

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

QUMS

nerves eased. She wished she could carry that same

the two-hundred-story tower and felt something empty out inside her-like a room with

into the sky like a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old,

was like a beggar asking a banker to lend

her grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front of the whole

courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester:

but tense, each waiting for their turn to be

Group. The

all every one

of them was hono

the same thing: a coffaboration

on earth are you doing here?" a

and found Heinrich standing

Katarina's lips tightened the

sentence.

forced to swallow bile. "I'm sorry, Katarina. I tried. I truly did. I don't understand how she keeps turning

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

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

a guest-he forced her out into the

me the footage," Alex

clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging her down

his

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

her pick them

matter what I say,

hurt you?" Alex asked, gently lifting her

serious," she

"You know, you don't need to print

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

chest. "The same way I like touching

chuckled. "You really are

at me like I was more than data in a

other as they walked back through the

voice cracked

the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I don't want

The color

saw it-the invisible chain that still tied her to

Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if

himself between Sofina and

Group," Alex said. "You're a guest.

curled. "A gardener telling me how to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like a king. Where's your manager? I

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

I'm Heinrich Schiller." Heinrich's face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should

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

hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you

snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out. Frankly, Eden Group

would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to

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

gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you pretending

all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt officially registered, the security androids wouldn't have

forget your place.

you anytime I want. Now, you've offended

Kneel and

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

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

he's not joining?" Alex asked

if he doesn't, he deserves your respect. You're nothing compared to him!

calmly, shaking

be fired if you

darkly. "Come on, Alex. We've known each other a long time. Just kneel and bow three

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

started to gather, drawn by the rising tension.

up to Heinrich?

gardener's got a

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

"Oh hell, that Alex? The walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing

smirked and turned

desperate for my attention,

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

and

tightened around Alex's arm,

you don't, I'll make sure everyone in

have the

name you'll be nothing

s

but Sofina grabbed him

steady. "Let me

face. She met his

Sofina stepped forward alone.Chapter

red as a boil. "You hit me,

curse.

God's name do you think you're

robot - fetch her, give her twenty lashes,

a hand

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

every syllable a command.

better cancel that order," he said. "Someone's going

one who'll get

his communication bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish

tilted his head.

began to close

hit

Heinrich's the

another voice

security unit glided forward and ran its routine: ID scan,

a threat to

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

into

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

"Override the previous command. Secure Dietrich and

robot optical sensors

slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The

it, security robot drew an electric whip

seared; the skin opened, and dark lines of blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop! Not me - her!

recoiled, noise tilting from triumph to alarm. "Is the Eden

Group tech is already the most advanced," someone muttered, half

of confusion

didn't stop until Dietrich had taken

finished, it hauled him to his feet and kicked him

mind struggling to catch up with the chaos unraveling around

wiped the blood away with the back of his

bitch," he hissed, voice low and venomous. "I'll teach you

toward her, his hand

time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over and

weak, but because she'd once mistaken

and seized his arm. "Find someone

slave — let go of

lid.

tightened his grip until Heinrich screamed like an animal, pain

to his knees, clutching at a hand that felt as if bone and pride were

me go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on his cheeks

like a storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the marble floor with

-