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.

by the neck once

are you doing, Sebastian?" Heather asked, both

across the face and sneered. "What can you

"My mentor will

you had some brains, but it seems that

do you mean by that?" Heather asked while bristling with anger. Sebastian's cold laugh echoed. "Even now, you don't understand what kind

me make it clear for you. Even if your mentor Bertha were here, she wouldn't be able

one of the Grand Elders of the Netherworld Sect!

help from her mentor, Bertha, while

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

to make this father-daughter duo

"Mr. Wilder, the Netherworld Sect is full of experts. They have five divine grandmasters, and Tyler's power is beyond comprehension. Are

ants," Sebastian

underestimate them, Mr. Wilder,"

arrogance but confidence,

carrier pigeons and their giant birds that people could

had passed, and still no sign

won't be coming,"

you can't kill me. I'm the Netherworld Sect's once-in-a-millennium genius apprentice. If you kill me, the Sect will never let

have let you call for help, nor would I be standing here

after me, fine. But if they do, I'll just wipe

of destroying a powerful sect as casually as

stunned-what kind of confidence was this? How strong

they would have dismissed it as bluster, and not

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

any last words

kill me. For the sake of the one night we shared as husband and

die."

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

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

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

sent people after my godmother, had her beaten severely, and even tried to humiliate my wife. Such malice-how could I

It was Sean acting

with me," Heather quickly tried to

in, "She's right, I can vouch for her. When it all

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

intent.

belongs to s

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

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

trying to turn us against each other? How

silently agreed, thinking that forcing them to choose

simply killing them

would live with the

one minute

full

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

us go, and just

"Alright. I'll give you

just rob a bank?"

thousand gold coins were enough for someone to live comfortably for a lifetime.

sneered. "If you're unwilling to pay one million, that's fine. I can

teeth, feeling as

of gold, Sebastian only

ten notes, each worth 100 thousand

kept his word and

he was merciful, but because he wanted to take

Sebastian followed Hendrick to

ask you for a favor,"

no need to be so formal. Just tell

not only healed his wounds,

that Hendrick considered a

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

Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then drew an image of

a professional artist,

the woman in the

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

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

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

in the

her own beauty.

then explained the circumstances and

send people to find her immediately.

at the chamber, waiting for updates.

arrange for some people to take care

assigned Brork to protect

first

single word of refusal. He was completely subdued,

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

I just can't swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter

and asked, "Are you willing to marry the Stonebrook's

is an outstanding

today and then ask the Stonebrook family to deal

and daughter then stepped out to greet

in large numbers, bringing

Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top

appearance was average,

Denzel, Mr. Camden, your arrival truly graces our humble

and said, "Mr. Knott, you're too kind. Please

led the father and son into the sitting room and had them

"I've long heard that your daughter is as beautiful as a goddess, and today I see

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

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

his daze and quickly stood up, saying, "I'm sorry, Ms. Knott, I was being

angry at all. In fact, she felt quite pleased

major families. If Heather could become the young mistress of the

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

even secure a place among the four

Denzel smiled a

said, "My

not long ago, and

love at first sight for him.

lost

his appetite and many.

I became anxious, soove brought

Cóntent

his hands, and

boxes were filled with gleaming gold coins. They were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs, a box of antique paintings, a box of aged wine, and a box

pill box, though smaller, contained dozens of

Stonebrook family's betrothal gifts include 880 thousand gold coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a box of premium medicinal herbs, some

the Stonebrook family had truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880 thousand, which

them extremely scarce in the

improve physical constitution, extend life, and greatly enhance a

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

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

satisfied, actually,"

you agree to their marriage?" Denzel

a remarkable man. For him to be interested in my daughter is an honor

future title of daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family, who would dare

setting it for a year later. Martin then

we've recently provoked someone whose strength is formidable and who is extremely

there aren't many people who could cause trouble for you. Who might this person be?" Denzel asked

"It's a scoundrel named

commoner.

Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later, when my illness flared

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

call off the engagement, Mr.

eyes. "I heard about this incident

worry, Heather. I don't

Heather

clever strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing

bringing it up herself, she

I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but a beast. He's worse than an

engaged, he demanded that I sleep with

not that kind of woman and naturally refused him. He then

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

strong. Even my

under 30 years old. How could he

their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and

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

agreement. "That's right. That brat's cultivation is at least at the

real age is definitely

scoffed. "Isn't he just an

Heather and Camden's engagement

heir of the Stonebrook family, one of the four major families of the southern region,

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

reflection, it didn't seem that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par

Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level

a genius with boundless

and talent compensated

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

especially those who secretly admired Heather, were

no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't

invested in a vast amount

third stage of the cultivation technique- whether

pills now to boost the cultivation of

exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One day, after finishing his pill refinement session,

at Knott Estate.

of them is for me, I assume?" Sebastian

nodded. "Yes,

more than an

are you planning

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

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 the Stonebrook family's power against

is right. You

right

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

Wilder, you shouldn't be so careless. know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has many powerful figures.

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your concern, but those

just clowns. They're not worth worrying

fine. If

ie

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

listen to us and

can't be avoided. If they're out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even if I skip

confront them sooner rather than later,Chapter

approached the entrance of Knott Estate,

partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was Kaitlyn,

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

Sebastian nodded.

the Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the banquet. Going there now

here just to tell me this?"

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

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

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed and

"Mr. Wilder, if Ms. Gardner says so, then it's surely true.

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

made up. No more

thinking Sebastian was marching to

the atmosphere was festive and filled

the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to personally attend and

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

woman both stunning and neredibly talented was something

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.

had been keeping tabs on Sebastian's

report just at that moment,

once he enters. Make sure he doesn't escape," Camden

be able to get away, even if he sprouts

"By the

today. But with the family's third elder and the

nodded again

that moment, Sebastian and his companions entered Knott

he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in

She had already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still

actually had the guts to come. I can't decide if I should praise

isn't exactly a dragon's

playing dumb. Since you've come today,

smile. "Brat, today next year

didn't give you a chance. If you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out your own eyes, and break your own hands,

hand and said, "You invited me to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet, here you are,

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

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

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

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

is your engagement party. Killing someone might bring

If you want to live today, the only way

Sebastian laughed and his smile was full of

grew furious. "What are

are so many good women out

my woman? You've got

lost it. This

a slim chance to live.

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood

Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

energy

day,

me into her room, and

"Shut up!"

and quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop

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

I don't believe him. This guy has

you

through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me,

He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with him,

"Don't worry. No

she drugged me that day, I couldn't resist and ended up sleeping with her. But what I didn't expect was that she was using an evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me off a cliff. If I hadn't been lucky, I wouldn't

angrily. "To slander my woman right in

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

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

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

his gaze. Doubts

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

planned to verify everything

approached Sebastian, releasing a powerful aura that felt as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it hard

the aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers said as their eyes filled

felt apprehensive. While they were

whereas Septimus was

thought you had some sense in you, but you're a

"You tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep talking. Heather is nothing

way, I left a few scratch marks on her chest because I got a bit

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

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned. Upon

Heather was

lies! I swear I'll cut out your

a fool, and he was infuriated by the Chapter

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

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster.

released aura alone made it hard for

on with faces full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was

neck. Just as it seemed he would

sound, Septimus'

let out a pained scream and staggered back in

with a swift movement, Sebastian chased him

"What?"

powerful middle- stage

was

most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian

perhaps at most a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why would he bother with

"I've really underestimated you. If you release Septimus now, I might leave your

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

Sebastian, his eyes filled with murderous

stepped forward. "Mr. Camden, can you do me a favor? I'll have him release Septimus, and in return, you spare his

already noticed Kaitlyn from the start. Although her face

he had

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

and breaks both his hands, I'll spare his

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

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

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

isn't some death trap. Why shouldn't I

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

Stonebrook family

Gouging out your eyes and breaking your hands is the best outcome

lightly and replied, "Ms.

in the

hard to accept,

five miserably than to die.

say something, but in

that for a strong person, losing both eyes and hands was a fate worse than death. Rather than

at

"Septimus!"

members of the Stonebrook family erupted in

with rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how

satisfied until

cripple his cultivation for

order. He was already walking toward Sebastian,

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

truly unfathomable. He's probably

said that Trey has the ability to fight beyond his

He struck so quickly before; this is

Everyone nodded in agreement.

shouted,

drew it

blade resonated through the air, unleashing a wave of terrifying killing

an instant, the surrounding temperature seemed to plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their hearts were quickly filled with

be the Godslayer Blade of

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

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

even

said to be a top-tier weapon

here was Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

eyes, unable to bear

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

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

feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively

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

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

his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with

a few miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere that

weaker cultivation slumped

alive, so his sword's

Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out

To try and stop the

expected sight of blood and mangled

"How is this possible?"

equally stunned as they were unable to

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

Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He

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

he was jolted by

satisfaction. "This sword is not bad. From now

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

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

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

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

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

You two really are made

the idiot! Your whole

dare to shout at me.

kill us?" Heather

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

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 me, I'll exterminate every last one

By the end, his voice was thunderous, sending shivers down

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

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

truly are full of yourself! Our family has

Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live. Otherwise, I

in a grave, you won't be around

dare!" Camden

was already afraid of him. He gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as they were

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

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

remain

Kill him!" Camden

the grandmasters from the Stonebrook family were filled with terror, they had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting

the fray. Instead, he used the

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

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

of cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

and her face

Heather. He grabbed her by

air,

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

Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through the boutique's high-ceilinged

the tight bun at the back of her

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

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

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

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

a small, practiced smile-courteous, almost

should be the one thanking you,"

Jonathan slipped a hand into the miniature pocket of his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card.

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

at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended to

hovered around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes

scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel gave a single,

Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult clothing, yet he

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

from velvet

employees watched, envy shining

cover the down

more.

precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal

guided

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

over eight million." s

Ivy would never have

said, firm

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

the approval tone chimed, she stared at the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy, it seemed, spent money the

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

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

finally set the receipt

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

"Pass it on to

A quick shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh,

apairof

his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you ever hit a rough patch, come to

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

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

to reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did

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

knows Ms. Kennedy, and

"Your Ms. Kennedy certainly

small, sour note curled inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes

darkened like a sky

reached out, hooked his tiny pinkie around Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty sure that one was

first fib, it was only

Nathaniel, Jonathan appeared more like an adult compared to

would never delegate adult shopping

"You've figured something out, haven't

Jonathan blinked, performing

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

the realization sent a tremor of startled admiration

lashes lifting so his

back and forced a civil smile. "Why would I be?" he countered,

She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced,

opened, then snapped shut.Am I showing

cleared his throat. “And exactly where did you pick

Jon shrugged as if

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

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

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

corridor, she almost collided

arms loaded with

you two been? And what on earth is

forward, intent on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel spoke

gifts,” he said smoothly.

Nathaniel was patching

well, a heads-up would have been nice. I was starting to

Jonathan gaped, utterly bewildered. When have

Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding flashed

resigned himself to carrying the

skimping on water lately," Jon

Cecilia understood what was happening, concern flooded her eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders

right? You're far too little to struggle with

carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch

his cheeks until his

had merely confessed the problem, never imagining the

Cecilia had hugged him

I'll be fine if I drink more water. It isn't that bad, please don't

been the model child, obedient, courteous, eager to

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

earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce a

twisted into silent misery. Great, sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you could invent, you picked constipation.

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

the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess

Cecilia opened her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half

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

not sure how to use them, I will

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

let Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his head so

Mommy. I can manage

every gesture brimming with pride

already forced to endure the

bathroom with you," she said,

"Okay."

box like contraband and bolted

his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why,

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

a mild but warning stare. "Don't

pressed a small hand against his chest, trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of

cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on," she said, "let's

you have to take tons of

bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back

the little photoshoot ended, she pinged

fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the sorrow hovering behind

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

elderly couple, in return, video-called often to check

little, life seemed to find its

to come back for a visit?" Bethany asked, voice

her priorities were pulled toward her husband's

have decided. We'll come right after the

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

Bethany for a good while

outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their

Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick of

intent on stealing five minutes of calm

"Ceci."

in surprise. "What is

we're doing

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

clouded Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing," he

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

to his, worry eclipsing her earlier cheer. "What's

a single step closer, the scent of cedar from his

could

arms

swift, possessive

though staking a claim no

really have

out rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every syllable vibrating through the scant inches between

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

let me go! If Elliot or

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

other? They're

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

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

brows arched, genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left the country that

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 for,

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

།

Jonathan, let him stay with Old Mr. Sinclair

of his finger brushing her burning cheek. “You're being terribly

"Hmm?"

to be apart from the kids, yet you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like I'm dead

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

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

storm gathering behind

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

it, then

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

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

was no match for his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her

latch clicked, the deadbolt turned, and darkness enveloped the

hissed against the windows, but inside,

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

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open, hazy with

drawing her even closer until her breath mingled with

voice came out in a whisper, pressed tight

sighed. "Stay. Just a little longer."

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

arms and mumbled, "Give

he could be,

when were you this attached? I never noticed

mouth. "I was younger. Didn't know

laughed and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing up beneath

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

"Ceci, after you hit the mall

head. "That's it.

are you buying?” he asked, still

for Mom, and

else?” His tone carried a note of suspicion wrapped in

"Nope."

the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every hanger

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

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

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

rose, padded through quiet hallways, and stepped onto

1.

spirited Jon and Elliot off to

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

could think the Wolfsbane family had any chance of working with the Eden

you an idiot with half a

red. He spun toward the

table. Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her so-called pride, had done nothing but disappoint

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

liked the girl. But seeing Sofina

this

of you!" she thundered. "You're cowards! Every last one of you! From

The room fell silent.

stood. "Don't worry, Grandma," she

his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin

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

this family

embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle worker? That she's going to

great enough that even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the

problem? Do you not believe in

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

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.

she snapped. "You're a fool if

sound that filled the room. "Then let's make this interesting. What if she does succeed? Want to make a

her arms. "Fine. You think I'm

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

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

a half-smile. "Then let's

"Count me in too! If I win,

on her, raising a brow. "Alright. But what

lose. But fine-I'll play along. What

about this—if you lose, you kneel ten times and

"Ha! You're really digging

you lose,

"But if I win,

win this? I've already recorded the bet

"Perfect," he said. "I like it when everyone plays

even glance at them. She couldn't care

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

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

out the window.

"Trust? No.

a look. "That's supposed to make me feel

talk to someone who hasn't met this family." Sofina

at least I bet on your victory. Isn't that

a brow. "You really think this

show who's got

crossed her arms. "And what if

"Then I'll finally fit right in

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

luxury car they'd won from Nikolaus-a machine so rare in

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

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

the future deputy of the Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare buy you

can."

frowned, glancing at him. "You really think this

smiled without 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 have a new mansion to park it

shook her head, half anxious, half amused. "I wish

"You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you miss, you'll

softened as the car descended toward the Eden Group's towering headquarters, its

luck," Sofina whispered as the car touched

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

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

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

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

was like a beggar asking a banker to lend him

promised her grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front

Sofina slowed her pace. The lobby felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts,

tense, each waiting for their turn to be judged

Group. The sight said

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration with

earth are you doing here?" a

found Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim,

like hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way

sentence.

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,"

the hell are you trying to fool? Even your

up his Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone

monitor was just shoved by a guest-he forced her out into the entrance area. Do you want us to

me the footage," Alex

Heinrich's hand clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging her down the hallway

straightened his collar, pulled on his gloves,

floor, gathering a pile

her

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

asked, gently lifting her chin, checking

serious," she

don't need to print everything. The digital files are

"Maybe. But I like the feel

chest. "The same way

chuckled. "You really

me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes I

other as they walked back through the glass

a voice cracked

doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I don't

The color drained

that still

control doesn't vanish overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if

forward, placing himself between

Eden Group," Alex said. "You're a guest. You have no authority

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

a low, sharp laugh. "Keep dreaming. You're not a king- you're

you know who I am? I'm Heinrich Schiller." Heinrich's face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener. When I'm finished, you'll be out of a job.” "You can

brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a

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 in

"I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to

smile didn't falter; his tone tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you, tell me their name

gardener. He insulted

uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never

"Eden Group has over a thousand workers in this two-hundred-floor building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt officially registered, the security androids wouldn't have given me

stepped closer. "You seem to forget your

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

Kneel and

He's the one who tried to

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

not joining?"

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

calmly, shaking his head.

be fired if

Alex. We've known each other a long time. Just kneel

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

gather, drawn by the rising

stand up to Heinrich? The man really doesn't know

got a

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

hell, that Alex? The walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing off. He's

smirked and turned to

desperate for my attention, haven't you?

husband's a fool who doesn't know his place. How about you kneel

and

tightened around Alex's arm, her

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

I'll have the whole

nothing outcasts. And

s

forward, but Sofina grabbed him tighter and

soft but steady.

face. She met his eyes.

stepped

boil. "You hit me, bitch-" He spat

curse.

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

inside Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her, give her twenty

Heinrich upright, supporting him with a

lashes. She won't be standing after that her flesh

syllable a command. "Give

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

who'll

his communication bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish

tilted his head. "I

began to close

dare she hit

you know Heinrich's the man

another voice

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

the system flagged a threat to her,

in the room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina had

Alex had wired her into his network bridge so she could

Any device that touched Sofina reported to

the previous command.

security robot optical

and slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The shock hit him like a thrown rope; he folded and

robot drew an electric

Dietrich's shout cut

tilting from triumph to alarm. "Is the Eden security

Eden Group tech is already the most advanced,"

of confusion moved through the

robot didn't stop until Dietrich had

and kicked him

catch up with the

his bleeding nose. He wiped the blood away

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

toward her, his hand swinging

wasn't the first time. Heinrich had struck Sofina

it, not because she was weak,

closed on Heinrich and seized his arm. "Find someone your

let go

temper under a hard lid. The

his grip until Heinrich screamed like an animal, pain folding him in

a hand that felt as if bone and pride were

gasped,

breaking loose. Her heels struck the marble floor with sharp precision, aides trailing

-