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.

Sebastian grabbed Heather by the neck once more.

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

With a loud smack, Sebastian slapped her hard across the face and sneered. "What can you do now that I've laid a hand on you?"

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

Sebastian gave a mocking smile. "I thought you had some brains, but it seems that you're incredibly foolish."

"What do you mean by that?" Heather asked while bristling with anger. Sebastian's cold laugh echoed. "Even now, you don't understand what kind of being you've provoked. You keep threatening me with your mentor-how stupid can you be?

"Let me make it clear for you. Even if your mentor Bertha were here, she wouldn't be able to save you because, in my eyes, she's nothing more than an ant."

Elders of the Netherworld Sect! She has unfathomable

pleaded for help from her mentor, Bertha, while

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

to make this father-daughter duo taste

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

ants,"

underestimate them,

remained unfazed. It wasn't arrogance but confidence,

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

hours had passed, and still no sign

seems your mentor won't be

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

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

doesn't come after me, fine. But if they do, I'll

as casually as if

stunned-what kind of confidence was this? How strong did one have to

they would have dismissed it as bluster, and not even credible

witnessed him severely injured Martin in

you have any last words before you die?"

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

die."

our one night together? You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then

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

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

severely, and even tried to humiliate my

was Sean

do with me," Heather quickly

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

acted alone. If it wasn't her, then it must've been you." Sebastian turned his

intent.

belongs to s

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

either one of you.

against each other? How vicious!"

thinking that forcing them to

than simply

would live with

talk. I'm giving you one minute to decide. IfChapter

were full of fear

He didn't want to die,

maybe we can negotiate. Let us go,

give you a chance. I want

you just rob a bank?" Martin nearly jumped

someone to live comfortably for a lifetime. One

million, that's fine. I can just kill your daughter, and you won't have to

I'll pay!" Martin gritted his teeth, feeling as

of gold, Sebastian

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

his word and

was merciful, but because he wanted to take his

leaving Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton Chamber

to ask you for a favor,"

need to be

healed his wounds,

was a debt that Hendrick considered a second chance

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

Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then drew an

professional artist,

is the woman in the picture your wife?"

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

It was hard not

but

the drawing

matching her own

circumstances

people to find her immediately. I'm

the chamber, waiting for updates.

some people to take care of

he assigned Brork to protect her in

power first hand, Brork

single word of refusal. He was

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

can't swallow this humiliation!"

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

"Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of course

this marriage today and then ask the Stonebrook family to deal with that little bastard!" Martin

father and daughter then stepped out

Stonebrook family had arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance

middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one

old. Though his appearance was average, he had an impressive presence; this was Camden Stonebrook, the heir to

Denzel, Mr. Camden, your arrival truly graces our humble Knott Estate,"

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

honor. Please, come in." Martin led the

heard that your daughter is as beautiful

But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated

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

of his daze and quickly stood up, saying, "I'm

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

four major families. If Heather could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would

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

even secure a place among the four great ladies in the

Denzel smiled a

"My

once not long ago, and

first sight for

lost

his appetite and many.

As his father, I

Cóntent

speaking, he clapped his hands, and the servants

box of gemstones, a

box, though smaller, contained

box of top-grade

all out. The

in the market. When Martin and Heather heard about the Purification Pills, their eyes lit up

cleanse the body, improve physical constitution, extend

pills significantly improved their constitution, accelerated

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

satisfied. Extremely satisfied,

you agree to their marriage?"

to be interested in my daughter is an honor for us. How could

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

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

is formidable and who is extremely arrogant.

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

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

commoner.

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

advantage of the situation and insisted I take off my clothes before he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had no

mind, we can call off the engagement,

of cold light crossed Camden's eyes. "I heard about this

worry, Heather. I don't mind.

understanding," Heather

clever strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the Stonebrook family's resources, they likely

bringing it up herself, she hoped to

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

soon as we got engaged, he demanded that I

refused him. He then tried to force himself on

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

strong. Even my father

should be under 30 years old.

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

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

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

is definitely well

scoffed. "Isn't he just an

and Camden's

the four major families of the southern region, Camden

status as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate,

reflection, it didn't seem that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the daughters of the four great families, her looks

her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level as Kaitlyn and the

a genius with boundless

beauty and talent compensated for her

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

peers, especially those who secretly admired Heather,

her

Sebastian invested in a vast amount of herbs for pill

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

boost the cultivation of those around him once he

breaks periodically to rest. One

at Knott Estate. They've sent

is for me, I assume?"

nodded. "Yes, you're

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

"Mr. Wilder, are you planning to

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

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

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

walking right into

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

careless. know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has

Hendrick warned.

to .net

"I appreciate your concern, but those people

They're not

leave me alone, fine. If they

ie

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

"Mr. Wilder, please listen to us

revenge, they'll cook up something else next

them sooner rather than

the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman suddenly blocked

with a veil partially hiding her stunning

from me?" Sebastian asked. "Are you heading to

Sebastian nodded.

you at the banquet.

to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with

run into you and thought I'd give you

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

scoffed

says so, then

to become

No more

heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to his doom. All

atmosphere was festive

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

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

a woman both stunning and neredibly talented was something that would inspire envy in countless

seen and touched by Sebastian So the only

Sebastian.

keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and his

at that moment,

Make sure

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

the way, has my

make it today. But with the family's third elder and the seventh elder

again in

and

What's he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in

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

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

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

dumb. Since you've come today, don't expect to

a mocking smile. "Brat, today next

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

"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

Camden sneered. "I invited you here

He thinks that just because he came to congratulate

Ms. Knott's reputation. Mr. Camden would never let him live.

Among all the people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn

"Today is your engagement party. Killing someone might bring bad

you want to live today, the only way is to do

laughed and his

grew furious. "What are you laughing at,

get it. There are so many good women out

you insult my woman? You've got some nerve!"

lost it. This guy must

asked, he might have had a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now he's probably wishing for death to

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth. You don't know how despicable Heather really

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

energy to

One day, shevited me

into her room,

"Shut up!"

Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting nonsense and tarnishing my

slandering Heather on purpose. You

don't believe him. This guy

you have?"

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

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

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

evil cultivation technique to absorb

right in front

time was with me. If you don't believe me, you can have her checked. If I'm lying, you can do with

it all up! Even if an examination proves

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

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

ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or

planned to verify everything as soon as

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

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

experts like Korbin and Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they

the early stage, whereas Septimus was a middle-stage

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

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

on her chest because I

with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned.

Heather was

swear I'll cut out your tongue and

he was infuriated

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

a middle-stage divine grandmaster.

his move, the pressure from his released aura alone made it

on with faces full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could do; they were powerless to stop the Stonebrook family from killing

his hand reached out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered, reacting faster and landing a

sound,

pained scream and staggered

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

"What?"

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

was beyond

most shocked. Not long ago,

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

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

enraged, and she yelled, "Sebastian, he's from the Stonebrook family! If you dare to kill him, you won't even have

Sebastian, his

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

already noticed Kaitlyn from the start. Although her face was

this close distance, Camden found her even more enticing than he had imagined. He nodded and

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

out his own eyes, and breaks both

Camden, isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking his hands

This is my bottom

I warn

some death trap.

"I didn't realize your strength was

The Stonebrook family

exceeds your imagination. Gouging out your eyes and breaking your hands is the

"Ms.

the

know it's hard to accept,

miserably than to

wanted to say something, but

than death. Rather

slim, at least Sebastian could die fighting

"Septimus!"

of the Stonebrook

rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder,

I won't be satisfied until

cripple his

Camden's order. He was already walking

each step forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on the hard diamond-stone

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

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

so quickly before; this is definitely going

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a

sword and immediately drew it from its sheath. A sharp,

the air, unleashing a wave

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

Godslayer Blade of the

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

expected Camden to carry the Godslayer

of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand against Trey Defeating Sebastian will be, piece of

to be a top-tier weapon

here was Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

her eyes, unable

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

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

a bit more, she even started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever

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

were the Stonebrook family. Not even her

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

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

with weaker cultivation slumped to the ground while

Sebastian alive, so his sword's target was

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

Trey sneered, his expression filled with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade

contact with Sebastian's palm. However, instead of the expected sight of blood and mangled flesh, the sword

"How is this possible?"

widened, filled with shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned

caught the Godslayer Blade with his bare hand! This

Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted

hand it 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

anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a punch

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

you can kill me,

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

with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top experts in the Southern Regions, so killing you would be a piece

a pair of idiots. You two really are made

the idiot! Your whole family

sneered. "You're about to die, yet you still dare to shout

You really plan to kill us?" Heather was suddenly

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

clowns. If you send one person to me, I'll kill that person. If you send two, I'll kill both of them. If you send a whole army, I'll wipe them out. If your entire family comes at

he spoke. By the end, his

could believe how

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

"You truly are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over a thousand years,

house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live.

in a grave, you

you dare!"

from the Stonebrook family around

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

weighed down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed

struggled to remain standing,

him!"

the grandmasters from the Stonebrook family were filled with terror, they had

fray. Instead, he used the chaos

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

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

cake. The

was terrifying.

and her face became pale with

that moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her by

air,

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

again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of

tight bun at the back of her head

did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through

dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful glance first to Jonathan

stepped between danger and the child, the day would have ended in

Jonathan, her posture unexpectedly shy. "Thank you,"

almost grown-up, impossibly composed for a boy his

be the one thanking you," he replied, voice clear as

his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it

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

chosen started at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended

uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she

required his guardian's word. Nathaniel gave

Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult clothing, yet he trusted the boy's

"Of course," she said, nearly breathless with

from velvet

showroom, the other employees watched, envy shining through their

large could cover the down

more.

nearby and everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal

guided

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

over eight million." s

Ivy would never have taken

Jonathan said, firm

flicked to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she

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

for choosing us." Ivy presented the

with matching courtesy. "Ms. Ivy, I

clerk finally set the

he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the mannequin. "Consider this

on to whatever gentleman

quick shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't,

apairof

now, spoke in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a

Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast briefing about the ruckus

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

at Jonathan, who still wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did you have in a men's boutique in

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

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

expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy

his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but

mood darkened like a sky

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

it was only because Vivian's eccentricity

appeared more like

never delegate adult shopping

gaze sharpened. "You've figured something out,

Jonathan blinked, performing innocent

quiet breath. “When it comes to

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

asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes could study every flicker on Nathaniel's

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

That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally

then snapped shut.Am I showing it that

throat. “And exactly where did

printed across your face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as if

comment landed like a weight on his chest. If even a child could

stayed shut far too

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

in the corridor, she almost

also noticed the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded with shopping bags

And

stepped forward, intent on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel

he said smoothly.

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

I was starting to wonder why you'd

gaped, utterly bewildered. When have

cleared his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look.

resigned himself to carrying the constipation story on

I've been skimping on water

Cecilia understood what was happening, concern flooded her eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him into a full- bodied embrace that smelled of

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

word confirmed aloud, Cecilia's chest pinched. Only a woman who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch of discomfort in that

warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks until his whole

imagining the confession would buy him

had been ages since Cecilia had hugged him

fine if I drink more water. It isn't that bad,

model child, obedient, courteous, eager

do. Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation

said it with earnest gravity, the

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

them,” he whispered, the words nearly swallowed by the flush covering

a glimmer of amused apology

word, Cecilia opened her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered

a summoned

If you're not sure how to use them, I will help

plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like a stone in

Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his head so hard his hair whipped across his

I can

can. You can handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that only made

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

she said, voice

"Okay."

the box like contraband and bolted down the

He watched his brother's

doesn't look it," Elliot muttered

seated beside him, fixed him with a mild but warning stare.

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

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

to take tons

bedroom, arms gathering the new clothes in bright cascading layers. One by one, she

photoshoot ended, she pinged

Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in

loneliness to take root, she sent them daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the

video-called often to check on

little, life seemed to find

the children be able to come back for a visit?" Bethany

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

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

and I will prepare every one of your favorite dishes," Bethany replied, her delight practically shimmering through the

a good while longer, then

outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their

and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the

on

"Ceci."

surprise. "What

all we're doing today?" His question

follow. What do you

clouded Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing,"

finally read the room. Something inside Nathaniel was storming, evident from the faint tension at his

eclipsing her earlier cheer. "What's

scent of cedar from

she could

long arms

possessive motion,

his chest, as though

have

out rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every

cheek. Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush

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

atop her hair as if the conversation were already

be awkward about two married people holding each other?

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

I moved overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the

slipping past her irritation.

then an idea lit behind his eyes. "Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad

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

།

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

finger brushing

"Hmm?"

He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like I'm dead last in

it click. Her proud, composed husband was jealous

slipped out before she could suppress it. "Of course, the kids outrank you.

eyes darkened, a storm gathering behind

bolted down

that she would dare make a break for it,

the panel,

are plenty of spare rooms in this

for his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he

latch clicked, the deadbolt turned, and

windows, but inside, heat

white light, snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting the

an inch away.

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

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open,

her even

I can't breathe.” Her voice came

"Stay. Just

friends a full day of window-shopping and

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

clingy he could be, warmth and weight wrapped around her like an oversized

were you this attached?

grin tugged at his mouth. "I

laughed and ruffled his hair, dark strands

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

after you hit the mall with

shook her head.

you buying?” he asked, still

for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa and

note

"Nope."

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

heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat. “Fine. Go on,

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

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

quiet hallways,

1.

and Elliot off

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 had even a sliver

Alex could think the Wolfsbane family

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

face went pale, then burned red. He spun

on 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

all people, it was Alex-the outcast, the

girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the old woman's

least this

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

The room fell silent.

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

arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin that made her blood

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 into

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

-the real embarrassment of this family!

Alex said. "I think the Wolfsbane family is great enough that even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's dream—and I believe in my

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

her hands fast. "No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal, that's all! I'm

not being realistic-you're being a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up as wisdom. And

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

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

You think I'm scared? Name

estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is ours foever. You move into our home, and we take

if Sofina fails, I want both of you out of the Wolfsbane family-for

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

chimed in, "Count me in too!

raising a

arms, chin lifted. "I won't lose.

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

You're really digging your

in too," Felicia said. "If you lose,

I win, you'll accept our marriage- no

really think you can win this? I've already recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's official now. You'll

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

She couldn't care less

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

three days to negotiate and close the deal. That's all.

way home, Sofina frowned, glancing out the window. "You

smirked. "Trust? No.

a look. "That's supposed to make me

someone who hasn't

"Hey, at least I bet

"You really think

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

crossed her arms. "And

finally fit right

next morning, Sofina sat in the passenger seat, clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind was

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

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

on the wheel. "Maybe

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

can."

frowned, glancing at him. "You really

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

head, half anxious, half amused. "I wish I had

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

descended toward the Eden Group's towering headquarters, its glass walls gleaming

Sofina whispered as

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

QUMS

moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could carry that

of the two-hundred-story tower and felt something empty out

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

partner with them was like a

She'd accepted the challenge in front of

felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all dressed in tailored suits and

conversations, their voices low but tense, each waiting for their turn to

The sight said

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration

on earth are you

Heinrich standing with

lips tightened the way a

sentence.

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

hell are you trying to fool?

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

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

the footage," Alex

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

his gloves,

a pile

quietly, helping her pick them up. "What

No matter what I say, he just slips back into his

Alex asked, gently lifting her chin, checking

nothing serious," she

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

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

chest. "The same

"You really

that," she said softly. "You cooked for me, you looked at me like I was more than data

they walked back through

a voice cracked the

Heinrich barked, stepping forward. "What the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay

color drained

that

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

forward, placing himself

Alex said. "You're a guest. You have no authority to order

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

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

an invitation—said I

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

a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you joined

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

"Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you, tell me their name

the man. Your gardener. He insulted me and tried to throw me

Eden Group gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you pretending to be one of our employees by wearing that

building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I

forget your place. I'm Dietrich

Human Resources. I can fire you anytime I

and beg for

should I? He's the one who tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't even belong to Eden

any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one of the brightest minds in Winchester-soon to join

he's not joining?"

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

calmly, shaking his

fired if you don't!"

a long time. Just kneel and bow three times,

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

the

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

"That gardener's got a name. You know

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

and

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

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

and I

tightened around Alex's arm, her knuckles

sure everyone in Winchester hears about this. You have

I'll have the

nothing outcasts. And you know

s

stepped forward, but Sofina grabbed him

but steady. "Let me handle

hesitated, searching her face. She met his

Sofina stepped forward

red as a boil. "You hit

curse.

you think you're doing,

Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her, give her twenty lashes, then throw her

hustled Heinrich upright, supporting him with a hand at the small of his

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

said, every syllable a command. "Give her what

cancel that order," he said. "Someone's going to get hurt if

"The one who'll get

his communication bracelet. "Security — attend.

head.

began to close

dare she hit Heinrich," someone

Heinrich's the

another voice

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

to her, an alert raced

expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina

wasn't just a home machine. Alex had wired her into his network bridge so she could talk to every

every linked node. Any device that touched

network. "Override the previous command. Secure Dietrich and give him

security robot optical

and slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The

security robot drew an electric whip from

of blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop! Not me

alarm. "Is the Eden security

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

of confusion moved

stop until Dietrich

his feet and kicked him out, shoving him past the main

to catch

hand clutching his bleeding nose. He wiped the blood away with the back of his wrist, his face twisting with

low and venomous. "I'll teach

toward her, his hand swinging through the

Heinrich had struck Sofina

endured it, not because she was weak, but

his arm. "Find someone your own size,"

slave — let go of

his temper under a hard lid. The government cameras watched from

screamed like an animal, pain folding him in on

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

me go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet

room like a storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the

-

offer - a bid to replace

win Eden's favor, to become the next

they were desperater

that Heinrich

the polished calm of her diplomacy shattered. What she saw made her

was holding Heinrich down, and

stormed over and slapped

Let him go this instant. How dare you strike him until he bleeds-I'll call the police and

and released Heinrich's arm. "Calling the police

that true?" Katarina

was Sofina. She hit my

a coward wearing someone else's name.

Prussia, nobles still carried real power. The law

immigrant struck a noble, the punishment could be death. If a commoner

the penalties were severe and swift. More often than not, the

protected rank, not

commoner, most people just accepted

power

turned her sharp