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

both angry and terrified. Her eyes

and sneered. "What can you do now that I've laid a hand on

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

mocking smile. "I thought you had some brains, but it

laugh echoed. "Even now, you don't understand what kind of being

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

the Grand Elders of the Netherworld

help from her

of skill, ordinary people wouldn't pose a threat to her even with her memory loss. So now he had no reason to worry about

determined to make this father-daughter

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

ants," Sebastian

them, Mr.

but confidence, confidence rooted

Sect wasn't far from Knott Estate. With the speed of carrier pigeons and their giant birds that people could ride, they should

had passed, and still no sign of

your mentor won't be

Sect's once-in-a-millennium genius apprentice. If you kill me, the Sect

I wouldn't have let you

after me, fine. But if they do,

powerful sect as casually as

strong did one have to be to

had heard him before, they would have dismissed it as

had just witnessed him severely injured

any last words before you die?" Sebastian

don't kill me. For the sake of the one night we shared as husband and wife, spare my life.

die."

means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then tossed me off a cliff

know I was wrong

with those skills. Let's set

godmother, had her beaten severely, and even tried

It was Sean acting on his

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

it all happened, Heather was at the Netherworld Sect. She didn't know

deserved to die, but I don't believe he acted alone. If it wasn't her, then it must've been you." Sebastian

intent.

belongs to s

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

of you. So, you can choose

trying to turn us against each other? How

forcing

than simply

would

one

eyes were full

want to die, but he also couldn't bear to

can negotiate. Let us go, and just name your price- anything

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

you just rob a bank?" Martin nearly jumped

to live comfortably for a lifetime.

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

Martin gritted his teeth, feeling as if his heart

amount of gold, Sebastian only

handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth

word and

Martin and Heather-not because he was merciful, but because he wanted to take his time to destroy

Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton

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

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

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

a debt that Hendrick considered a second chance

grade alchemist, with immeasurable strength to boot.

someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then

artist, his drawing

is the woman in the picture your

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

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

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

the

matching her own beauty.

circumstances

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

chamber, waiting for

some people to take care of

Brork to protect her in

terrifying power first

refusal. He was completely subdued, with no thoughts of

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

can't swallow

at Heather and asked, "Are you willing

replied without hesitation, "Mr. Camden is an outstanding man.

We'll settle this marriage today and then ask the

then stepped out

the Stonebrook family had arrived in large numbers, bringing

them was a dignified middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top

years old. Though his appearance was average, he had an

Denzel, Mr. Camden, your arrival truly graces our

you're too kind. Please forgive our unannounced

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

by leaps and bounds, making it only a matter of time before she surpassed

among the

Denzel smiled a

said, "My

once not long ago,

first sight for

lost his

his appetite and many.

sleep over her. As his father, I

Cóntent

he clapped his hands, and the servants immediately opened

three 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

box, though smaller, contained

betrothal gifts include 880 thousand gold coins, a box

admit, the Stonebrook family had truly gone all out. The gold

making them extremely scarce in the market. When Martin and Heather heard about the Purification Pills, their eyes lit

constitution, extend life, and greatly enhance a

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

you satisfied with the Stonebrook family's betrothal

Extremely satisfied,

you agree to their marriage?"

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

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

the wedding date, setting it

Stonebrook, we've recently provoked someone whose strength is formidable and who is extremely arrogant.

aren't many people who could cause trouble for you. Who might

interjected, "It's a scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's

commoner.

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

he took advantage of the situation and insisted I take off my clothes before he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless

mind, we can call off

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

Heather. I don't mind.

for understanding," Heather forced out a couple of

Sebastian seeing her

it up herself, she hoped to handle the

him. But what I never expected was that

he demanded

him. He then tried to force himself on me, but luckily, I managed to

the table in front of him. "Heather, don't

Camden, that scoundrel is very strong. Even my father couldn't defeat

heard he should be under 30 years old. How could he be stronger than Mr.

their skills, their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and pills

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

That brat's cultivation is at least at the early pinnacle stage of diving

is definitely well

"Isn't he just an early-stage divine

Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

of the southern region, Camden would typically only marry into one of the other three

Holton's Knott Estate, it was still far

upon reflection, it didn't seem that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the daughters of

test showed her potential at five rings, placing

genius with boundless potential and unimaginable

compensated for her comparatively

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

secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their hopes

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

from Martin, Sebastian invested in a vast amount of herbs for

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

to boost the cultivation

Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest.

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

them is for me,

nodded. "Yes,

nothing more than an attempt to use the Stonebrook family's influence to eliminate

"Mr. Wilder, are you planning to

if I don't go, wouldn't I

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

is right. You

walking right

bunch of petty clowns. There's

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your concern, but those

They're

leave me alone, fine. If

ie

Wilder, the Stonebrook family is one of the four major families in the southern region, even stronger than the Netherworld Sect.

listen to us and

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

confront them sooner rather than

of Knott

colorful gown, with a veil partially hiding her

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

Sebastian nodded.

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

been waiting here just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with

you

didn't expect you to care so much about me. Could it be that you've

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed

"Mr. Wilder, if Ms. Gardner says so, then

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

is made up. No more advice, please,"

was marching to his doom. All they could probably

Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled

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

all, by the end of today, she would be the

beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning and

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.

tabs on

moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian

Make

Camden. Everything is in place. He won't be able to

the way,

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

nodded again

and his companions entered

Korbin exclaimed in surprise

Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet

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

exactly a dragon's lair. Why wouldn't

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

smile. "Brat, today next

say I didn't give you a chance. If you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out

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

of your mind?" Camden sneered. "I invited you here just to kill you. You're

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

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

only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done to

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

about such things. If you want to live today,

and his

"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 as

You've got some nerve!"

it. This guy must

slim chance to live.

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the Stonebrooks' third elder, Trey Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They

out. I was simply speaking the truth.

been practicing

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

One day, shevited me

into her room, and tried

"Shut up!"

turned pale and quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop

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

This guy has slandered my woman-this is unforgivable!Chapter

you have?"

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

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

and said, "Don't worry. No

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

slander my woman right

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

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

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

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

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

Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as

that felt as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it

to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive,"

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

stage, whereas Septimus was a

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

you were dead!" Camden snapped angrily. Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but

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

her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would

However, Heather's reaction

everyone stunned. Upon realizing

tricked, Heather was

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

a fool, and he was infuriated by

family was one of the four major families of the southern region,

was a middle-stage divine

made his move, the pressure from his released aura alone made it hard for anyone nearby to

with worry. But there was little they could do; they

it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered, reacting faster and landing a punch directly

a resounding sound,

Septimus let out a pained scream and staggered

a swift movement, Sebastian chased him

"What?"

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

strength was

shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian had participated in the

most a warrior. After all, if he were a

underestimated you. If you release Septimus

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

his eyes filled with

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

already noticed Kaitlyn from the start. Although her face was hidden, she had an undeniable

than he had imagined. He nodded and said, "I'll grant you

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

and breaks both his hands, I'll spare

eyes and breaking his hands a

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

turned to Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I

trap. Why shouldn't I

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

The Stonebrook family

eyes and breaking your hands is the best outcome I could negotiate for

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

in the habit of

it's hard to accept,

miserably than

say something, but in the end,

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

slim, at least

"Septimus!"

the Stonebrook family erupted in

was seething with rage as he

won't be satisfied until

cripple his cultivation for

He was already walking

presence intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on the

be truly unfathomable. He's

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

knows what level Sebastian's cultivation is? He struck so quickly before; this is

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted, tossing

the sword and immediately drew it from its sheath.

air, unleashing

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

the Godslayer Blade of the

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

Camden to carry the Godslayer Blade

even late-stage divine

magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could slice through iron like

Sebastian,

closed her eyes, unable to bear watching

had taken her virginity, but after calming down and

by that old scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had

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

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

trying to kill Sebastian were the

he swung his sword, a blinding white

within a few miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere that

cultivation slumped

capture Sebastian alive, so his

the blade was about to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching

and stop the Godslayer Blade technique

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

"How is this possible?"

and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned

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

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

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

he was

satisfaction. "This sword is not bad.

a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a punch at Sebastian.Chapter

trembled as he pointed at Sebastian. "You actually dared to kill two

you can kill me,

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

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

of idiots. You two really are

are you calling idiots? You're the idiot! Your whole family is!" Heather shouted angrily at

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

to kill

afraid as he said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not

that person. If you send two,

spoke. By the end, his voice

into silence. No one could believe how

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

was furious. He remarked, "You truly are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong

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

up in a grave, you won't be

dare!"

He gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as

He took a step

everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed

the grandmasters struggled to remain standing,

him!" Camden

had no choice but

didn't join the fray. Instead,

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

shocked. The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped

of cake. The

was terrifying.

to the ground, and her face became pale

moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed

the air, attempting to

the nervous clerk and decided to let

this will ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through the

so hard the tight bun at the back of

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

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

stepped between danger and the child, the day would have

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

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

thanking you," he replied, voice clear

and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he

of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened, and the

Ivy had chosen started at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended to buy the lot without

card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she sought

minor. A purchase of this scale required his guardian's word.

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

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

garments from velvet

watched, envy

this large could cover the down payment on a new car,

more.

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

guided

az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of clothes.

over eight million." s

would never have taken a

Jonathan said, firm as bedrock. "I'm

objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card

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

Ivy presented the card with both hands,

"Ms. Ivy, I truly appreciate everything you did

clerk finally set the receipt

pivoted toward Ivy. With a flourish worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray wool

it on to whatever gentleman keeps you company."

shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I

apairof

Jon today. Compared

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

trailed them like silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and ribbon-tied shopping bags

to reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did you have in

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

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

expression unreadable. "Your Ms.

small, sour note curled inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci never thinks of

darkened like a

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 because

more like

Cecelia? She would never delegate adult shopping

figured

blinked,

quiet breath. “When it comes to

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

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

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

clothes for me and Elliot, but none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon

shut.Am I showing it

“And exactly where did you pick up on

Dad.” Jon shrugged as if stating simple

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

grew uneasy when the restroom door stayed shut far too

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

she almost collided with

them, arms

And what

on inspecting the

gifts,” he said smoothly. "Holiday tokens,

so Nathaniel was patching the

heads-up would have been nice. I was starting to wonder why you'd vanished."Chapter

bewildered. When

shot Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding flashed

the constipation story on his

been skimping on water lately,"

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

doctor, all right? You're far

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

to his cheeks until his whole face burned

confessed the problem, never imagining the confession would buy him

Cecilia had hugged him

I drink more

always been the model child, obedient,

do. Maybe we should buy

gravity, the way surgeons announce a lifesaving

lies you could invent, you picked

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

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

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

home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned

don't be embarrassed. If you're not sure how to

the plastic-wrapped suppositories,

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

Mommy. I can manage on my

his hair, every gesture brimming

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

to the bathroom with you," she said, voice

"Okay."

and bolted down the

watched his brother's retreating and,

doesn't look it,"

beside him, fixed him with a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease your

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

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

have to take tons of

hurried to the bedroom, arms gathering the new clothes in bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped

photoshoot ended, she pinged

departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in

short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the

often to check on

by little, life seemed to find

will you and the children be able to come back for a visit?" Bethany asked,

now belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her

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

soon as you can. Your grandpa and I will prepare every one

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

Jonathan and Elliot collapsed

fell into a rare hush, holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick of a

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

"Ceci."

in surprise.

doing today?" His question hovered,

follow. What do you mean?" Confusion knitted

clouded Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing," he

sit plainly on his face. Cecilia finally read the room. Something inside Nathaniel was storming,

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

scent of cedar from his freshly pressed shirt drawing her

she could

long arms swept out

swift, possessive

though staking a

have

with gravel, every syllable vibrating through the

breath fanned over her cheek. Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her

whisper-shouting, "Stop it, let me go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees this, it'll

chin settling atop her

be awkward about two married people holding each other? They're not babies anymore. They should understand," he responded

"Not babies?

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

her irritation. "You left

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

just regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps Old Mr. Sinclair

།

watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let him stay with Old Mr. Sinclair for

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

"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

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

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

a storm gathering

and bolted down the hallway, bare feet

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

and tried to swing the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice

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

his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her up again, and kicked the door

deadbolt turned, and darkness enveloped the

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

snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting

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

faint roughness, then lower to the soft curve

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open, hazy

murmured, drawing her even closer until her breath mingled

voice came out

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

a full

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

could be, warmth and weight wrapped around her

when were you this

tugged at his mouth. "I was

ruffled his hair, dark strands springing up beneath her

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

caught her hand again. "Ceci, after you hit the mall

head. "That's

asked, still unwilling to release

for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa and

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

"Nope."

which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he

heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose, voice

cause. He just hates it when I leave too quickly. With that familiar assumption, she

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

rose, padded through quiet hallways, and stepped

1.

spirited Jon and

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

a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had any chance

here just called you an idiot with half a brain for daring to ask for collaboration. Thought you

face went pale, then burned red. He spun toward the Baroness.

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

it was Alex-the outcast, the family fool-who

Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the old woman's heart

this one had

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

The room fell silent.

worry, Grandma," she

his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug

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

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

Beatrix's face turned crimson. "You're the half-slave here, Alex -the real embarrassment of

is great enough that even the Eden Group will want that

not believe in your grandmother, or are

just think it's impossible for Sofina to make

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 the

"You're a fool

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

think I'm scared? Name your terms,

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

grin twitched, "Deal," she said through clenched teeth. "But if Sofina

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

in, "Count me in too! If I win, I want

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

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

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

You're really digging your own grave, loser! Fine-I'll take that

you lose, I want

I win, you'll accept our marriage- no more insults, no

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

he said. "I

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

mattered to her was one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could actually

nonsense." She roared. "Sofina, you have three days to negotiate and close the

window. "You really think Grandma trusts me

"Trust? No.

"That's supposed to make me feel

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

at least I bet on

arched a brow. "You really think this bet will prove

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

her arms. "And what if

I'll finally fit right in with this family-bad

thick file of proposals she'd spent

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

watching the reflections glide across the car's polished hood, “we should return this car. It's too

"Maybe it's too fancy for a

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

can."

frowned, glancing at him. "You

Sofina. We're on our way up. And

anxious, half amused. "I wish I had

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

the car descended toward the Eden Group's

whispered as the

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

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

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

polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old, fractured, scandal-scarred—could sit

Eden to partner with them was like a beggar asking a

grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front of

courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from

tense, each

Group. The sight

all every one

of them was hono

thing: a coffaboration

are you doing

Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim, both

hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way a judge's did

sentence.

his head like a man forced to swallow bile. "I'm sorry, Katarina. I tried. I truly did. I don't understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward and grabbed Sofina's wrist in a rough. "You're here to attract attention," he hissed. "I told you I won't give you any. Leave this place." "Heinrich,”

Heinrich barked, his tone thick with mockery. "You? Who the hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't

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

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

the

hand clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging her

on his

floor, gathering a pile of scattered papers. He

helping her

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

gently

nothing serious,"

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

But I like the feel of paper. I like touching

brushed his chest. "The

chuckled. "You really are

softly. "You cooked for me, you looked at me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive again.

as they walked back through the

a voice cracked

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

The color drained from her

chain that still tied her

Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if waiting for

forward, placing himself between

a guest. You have no authority to order people

expect to

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

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.

anything. He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found

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

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

would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you,

gardener. He insulted me and tried to

in his Eden Group gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you

two-hundred-floor building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know

stepped closer. "You seem to forget your place. I'm Dietrich

fire you anytime I want. Now, you've

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and beg for his

the one who tried to

snapped. "Do you have any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one

he's not

nothing compared

calmly, shaking his

if you don't!" Dietrich

time. Just kneel

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

started to gather, drawn by the rising tension. Laughter

"A gardener trying to stand up to Heinrich? The man really doesn't know who he's

gardener's got a

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

that Alex? The walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing off. He's too stupid to

and turned

for my attention,

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

and

Alex's

don't, I'll make sure everyone in Winchester hears about this.

have the whole

name you'll be nothing outcasts. And

s

forward, but Sofina grabbed him tighter and shook her head.

steady.

hesitated, searching her face. She

Sofina stepped forward

"You hit me, bitch-" He spat the word

curse.

you think you're doing,

dare you strike Mister Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her, give

supporting him with a hand at

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

a command. "Give her what she

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

"The one who'll get

jabbed his communication bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish this

tilted his head.

began

hit Heinrich," someone

you know Heinrich's the man everyone

her!" another voice

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

moment the system flagged a threat to her, an alert raced through the building's

expected-Eve, the household

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

monitored Alex's accounts and every linked node. Any device that touched Sofina reported to Eve

"Override the previous command. Secure Dietrich and

optical

and slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The shock

anyone could process it, security robot drew an electric whip

the skin opened, and dark lines of blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop!

from triumph to alarm. "Is the Eden security

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

of confusion

until Dietrich had

it hauled him to his feet and kicked

to catch up with the chaos

staggered upright, one hand clutching his bleeding nose. He wiped the blood away with the back of his

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

her, his

the first time. Heinrich had struck Sofina

not because she was weak, but because she'd

his arm. "Find someone your own size," he said,

let go of

a hard lid. The government cameras

screamed like an animal, pain folding him

a hand that felt as if bone and pride were

go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on his

the Eden Group meeting room like a storm breaking loose. Her heels

-