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."

the Grand Elders of the Netherworld Sect! She has

had pleaded for help from her mentor, Bertha,

skill, ordinary people wouldn't pose a threat

to make this father-daughter duo taste

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

ants," Sebastian replied

underestimate them, Mr. Wilder,"

It wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence

pigeons and their giant birds

hours had passed, and still no sign

seems your mentor won't be

me. I'm the Netherworld Sect's once-in-a-millennium genius apprentice. If you kill me, the Sect will never

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

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

as casually as if

around was stunned-what kind of confidence was this? How strong did one have to be to have such unwavering

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

him severely injured Martin in a single

have any last

to her knees before Sebastian. "Sebastian, please don't kill me. For the sake of the one night we shared as husband and wife, spare my life.

die."

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

in a moment of weakness. I truly know I was wrong now. Please give me a chance to change. I'll devote

acting with those skills. Let's

sent people after my godmother, had her beaten severely, and even tried to humiliate

was Sean acting on

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

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

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

intent.

belongs to s

quickly denied, "It

scoffed. "Well, it's definitely either one of you. So, you

us against each other? How vicious!" Martin

onlookers silently agreed, thinking that forcing them to choose

than simply

the survivor would live

giving you one minute to decide. IfChapter

Heather's eyes were full

want to die, but he also couldn't bear

we can negotiate. Let us go, and

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

gold coins? Why don't you just rob

ten thousand gold coins were enough for someone to live comfortably for a lifetime. One million gold coins was a

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

gritted his teeth, feeling as if his

to the large amount of gold, Sebastian only asked

ten notes, each worth 100

his word and left after

Heather-not because he was merciful, but because

leaving Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick to

ask you for a favor," Sebastian

Wilder, there's no need to

his wounds, which

was a debt that Hendrick considered a second chance

least a second grade alchemist, with immeasurable strength to

Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then

Sebastian wasn't a professional artist, his drawing

in

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

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

in herself, but after

the

matching her own beauty.

then explained the circumstances and timing of Fressia's

immediately. I'm sure we'll

the chamber, waiting for updates. He also

people to take care of

to

terrifying power first hand, Brork didn't dare

refusal. He was completely subdued, with

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

I just can't swallow this humiliation!"

and asked, "Are

without hesitation, "Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of course I'm

the Stonebrook family to deal with

father and daughter then stepped out

had arrived in large numbers,

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

a young man of about 26 years old. Though his appearance was average, he had an impressive presence; this was Camden Stonebrook, the heir

Camden, your arrival truly graces our humble Knott Estate," Martin said with

"Mr. Knott, you're too kind. Please forgive our

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

heard that your daughter is as beautiful as

she acted, the

reprimanded, "Camden, it's impolite to keep

up, saying, "I'm sorry, Ms. Knott, I was

smile. She was not angry at all. In

become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would be like a shortcut to soar to higher

resources, her strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only

among the four

Denzel smiled a

"My

once not long

first

lost his

his appetite and many.

of sleep over her. As his father, I became anxious, soove brought

Cóntent

was done speaking, he clapped his hands, and the servants immediately opened the

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

pill box, though smaller, contained

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

gone all out. The gold coins

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

Pills could cleanse the body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and

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

are you satisfied with the Stonebrook family's betrothal

satisfied, actually,"

that mean you agree to their

Mr. Camden is a remarkable man. For him to be

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

setting it for a year later. Martin then mentioned

is formidable and who is extremely arrogant.

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

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

commoner.

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

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

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

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

worry, Heather. I don't

thank you for understanding," Heather

her clever strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked.

bringing it up herself, she hoped to

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

soon as we got engaged, he

woman and naturally refused him. He then

smashing the table in front of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares to bully my woman will die by my

very strong. Even

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

There are also herbs and pills that

in his 20s, but his real age could

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

is definitely well over

"Isn't he just an early-stage

Camden's engagement spread quickly,

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

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

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

her talents were remarkable. The Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings,

with boundless potential and unimaginable future

and talent compensated for her

of their engagement, many women felt envious and even jealous of Heather. After

those who secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their hopes

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

Sebastian invested in

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

to boost the cultivation of those around

exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One

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

of them is for me, I assume?"

"Yes,

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

asked, "Mr. Wilder, are you planning to

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

don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their

father is right.

right

of petty clowns. There's nothing

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

remained unmoved. "I appreciate your concern, but

clowns. They're not

they leave me alone, fine. If they dare

ie

of the four major families in the southern region, even stronger than the

"Mr. Wilder, please listen

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

better to confront them sooner rather than

entrance of

hiding her stunning beauty-it was

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

Sebastian nodded.

plans to kill you at the banquet. Going there

tell

yourself. I just happened to run into you and thought I'd give

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

Kaitlyn scoffed

says so, then

Mr. Wilder. There's always hope as long as you're alive. With your talent, you're destined to become a peerless force in the future. Just bide your time," Abigail added,

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

was marching to his doom.

atmosphere was festive

local powerhouse, the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending

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

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

and touched by Sebastian So the only way to remove

Sebastian.

been keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements,

just at that moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian has

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

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

nodded in satisfaction. "By the way, has

with the family's third elder and the

again in

that moment, Sebastian and his companions entered

Korbin exclaimed in surprise

already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan,

the guts to come. I can't

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

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

smile. "Brat, today

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

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 out of your mind?" Camden sneered. "I invited you here

idiot. He thinks that just because he came to congratulate the couple, Mr.

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

insults. Among all the people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian

engagement party. Killing someone

things. If you want to live today, the only way is to do as

and his smile

are

really don't get it. There are so many good women out

my woman? You've got some nerve!" Camden fumed with

This guy must

a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

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

been practicing

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

One day, shevited me

me into her room, and tried to

"Shut up!"

pale and quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting

he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You

don't believe him. This guy has slandered my

do you have?" Camden

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

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

No matter

was using an evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone

slander my woman right in front of

can

was horrified. "Camden, don't listen to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still

in, "Camden, this guy has

his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he

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

Camden planned to verify everything as

vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it hard

the power of a divine grandmaster? Just the aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers said as their eyes

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

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

mockingly and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're

wish you were dead!" Camden snapped angrily. Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but I'll still

on her

In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned.

Heather

now, you're spouting lies! I swear I'll cut out your tongue and feed it to

fool, and he was

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

particular, was a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power

the pressure from his released aura alone made it

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

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

sound, Septimus'

pained scream

Sebastian chased him

"What?"

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

was

most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian had participated in the Netherworld

a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster

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

Stonebrook family! If you dare

Sebastian, his

forward. "Mr. Camden, can you do me a favor? I'll have him

face was hidden, she had an

even more enticing than he had imagined. He nodded and said,

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

his own eyes, and breaks both his

gouging out his eyes

my bottom line!"

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

place isn't some death trap. Why

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

Stonebrook

and breaking your hands is the best

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

in the

know it's hard

than

say something, but in

was a fate worse than death. Rather than living worse than a dog, it

at

"Septimus!"

members of the Stonebrook family

as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder,

won't be satisfied until I torture

his cultivation

need Camden's order. He was already walking toward Sebastian, his aura growing increasingly

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

a powerful aura. Trey's cultivation must be truly unfathomable. He's probably at the

likely at the middle pinnacle stage of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability to fight beyond his level, comparable to a late-stage

quickly before; this is definitely going to be

Everyone nodded in agreement.

shouted, tossing

and immediately drew it

resonated through the air, unleashing a wave of

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

the Godslayer Blade

Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with it, they rarely met an equal. As long

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

added power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage

artifact, said to be a

was Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

her eyes, unable to bear

had taken her virginity, but after calming down and reflecting,

weren't for Sebastian, she would have been defiled by that old scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted to save her.

develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he

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

Sebastian were the Stonebrook

As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was

miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere that weighed down on everyone

weaker cultivation slumped to

aimed to capture Sebastian alive, so his

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

with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with one's bare hand was utterly

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

"How is this possible?"

equally stunned as they were unable to believe what they

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

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

of that. Just hand it over," Sebastian said calmly. With a slight exertion of his

if he was jolted by

examined the Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This

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

very shocked. His finger trembled as he pointed at Sebastian. "You actually dared

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

the heir to the Stonebrook family. Do you dare to kill

can imagine. They are filled with masters of

idiots. You two really are made for each

calling idiots? You're the idiot! Your

still dare to shout at me.

kill us?"

said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not just you, but everyone you care about will pay

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

the end, his voice

into silence. No one could believe how brazen

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

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

think you can fight us alone? Hand over the Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your

"Whether or not I end up in a grave, you won't

dare!" Camden

the experts from the Stonebrook family around him

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

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

the grandmasters struggled to remain standing, their legs quivering

Kill him!" Camden

family were filled with terror, they had no choice

the fray. Instead, he used the chaos

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

The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family

The

was terrifying.

the ground, and her face became pale

Heather. He grabbed her by

leapt into the air,

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

his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through

tight bun at the back of

breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like warm

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

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

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

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

should be the one thanking

drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it

announcement hit the staff like a clap of thunder. Jaws

knew each ensemble Ivy had chosen started at well over ten thousand,

uncertainty flickering across her

still a minor. A purchase of this scale required

an entire rack of adult clothing, yet he

course," she said, nearly breathless with

off, sweeping the garments from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags with

showroom, the other employees watched, envy

this large could cover the

more.

why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal Ivy's triumph, not

guided Nathaniel

packed but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or two pieces back?

over eight million." s

never have taken a job at a boutique this

Jonathan said, firm as bedrock. "I'm buying

no objection, she finally

in disbelief.

the card with

Ivy, I truly appreciate

finally set

of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on

on to whatever gentleman keeps

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

apairof

had listened in silence until now, spoke in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you ever hit a

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

bodyguards trailed them like silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp

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

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

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

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

remembers to buy clothes for Zachary,

like a sky before

"Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty

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

like an

delegate adult shopping

"You've figured

blinked, performing

quiet breath. “When it comes to social-grade lying,

be exposed so fast, and the realization

sigh. “Are you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes

smile. "Why would

for you. She skipped you completely. That

snapped shut.Am I showing

throat. “And exactly where

your face, Dad.” Jon shrugged

chest. If even a child could

door stayed

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

she almost collided with

the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded with shopping bags bulging

And what on

forward, intent on inspecting

he said smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing

so Nathaniel was patching the hole as

I was starting to wonder why you'd

bewildered. When have I ever

his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding flashed

himself to carrying the constipation story

been skimping on water lately," Jon

arm around Jonathan's

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

a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch of discomfort in that tiny body can split a mother's

his cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly as

problem, never imagining

had been ages since Cecilia had hugged him

fine if I drink more water. It

model child, obedient,

"That won't do. Maybe we

it with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce

sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you could invent,

he whispered, the words nearly swallowed by the flush covering

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

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

a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia

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

plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like

particular battlefield. He shook his head so hard his hair whipped across

I can manage

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

already forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If it lasted, a

with you," she said, voice low and gentle,

"Okay."

and bolted down the

lounged with a plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and,

doesn't look

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

calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind

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

have to take tons of super-cool photos of

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

ended, she

kept polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the sorrow hovering

wanting loneliness to take root, she sent them daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug, photos of

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

seemed to

the children be able to come

so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side

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

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

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

Elliot collapsed onto their beds, fast asleep

rare hush, holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant

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

"Ceci."

jerked in surprise. "What is

all we're doing today?" His question hovered,

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

clouded Nathaniel's eyes.

finally read the room. Something inside Nathaniel was storming, evident from the faint tension at his jaw and the way his gaze refused

worry eclipsing her earlier cheer. "What's the

step closer, the scent of cedar

she could

arms swept

possessive

her against his chest, as though staking a

really have to

with gravel, every syllable vibrating through the

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

squirmed, whisper-shouting, "Stop it, let me go! If Elliot

atop her hair as if the conversation were already

people holding each other?

eyes, she muttered, "Not babies? They're

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

her irritation. "You

Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build some resilience. It'll give

squeezing. "They're too little, Nathaniel. Besides, Elliot's just regained

།

to watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan,

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

"Hmm?"

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

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

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

a storm gathering behind the

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

make a break for it, then sprang up

planted one hand against the panel,

pushing harder on the door. "There are plenty of spare

a gentle shove, he slipped inside,

the deadbolt turned, and darkness

wind hissed against the windows, but inside, heat pooled

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

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

finger over that faint

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open, hazy

her even

came out in a whisper,

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

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

"Give me a few

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

when were you this attached? I

slow grin tugged at his mouth. "I was younger.

ruffled his hair, dark strands springing

have a busy day ahead," she

"Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends, that's all, right? No other

head. "That's it.

asked, still unwilling to

and something nice for

carried a note of suspicion wrapped in playful

"Nope."

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

He gently pried her fingers loose, voice low and

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 pass and walked

bedroom felt even smaller once the door clicked shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like a weight

rose, padded through quiet hallways, and stepped

1.

Jon and Elliot off

brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had even a sliver of sense, you'd

truly believed that only a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had any chance

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

red. He

on the table. Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then

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

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

least this

she thundered. "You're cowards! Every last one of you! From this moment on,

The room fell silent.

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

Beatrix a smug grin that made her blood

-try all

She's fighting to lift this family up, while you bury it in arrogance

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

think the Wolfsbane family is great enough that even the Eden Group will

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

flinched and waved her hands fast. "No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's impossible

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:

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

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

her arms. "Fine. You think I'm scared? Name your

you that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place

teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I

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

"Count me in too! If I win,

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

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

widened. "Since you love calling me a half-slave, how about this—if you lose, you kneel ten times and admit

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

you lose, I want

didn't flinch. "Fine," he said calmly. "But if I win, you'll accept our marriage- no more insults, no

the bet and sent the document to the

he said. "I like it when everyone plays

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

the Wolfsbane family

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

home, Sofina frowned, glancing out the window. "You really think Grandma trusts me with the Eden

"Trust? No. Desperation?

look. "That's

"If you want comfort, talk to someone who hasn't met this family." Sofina

bet

a brow. "You really think this bet

show who's got guts

crossed her arms. "And what if you

finally fit right in with this family-bad decisions and

proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind was sharp. Today would decide

black luxury car they'd won from Nikolaus-a

hood, “we should return this car.

wheel. "Maybe

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

can."

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

on our way up. And when this

half anxious, half

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

Group's towering headquarters, its glass walls

whispered as

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

QUMS

help but laugh. For a moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could

stood under the shadow of the two-hundred-story tower and felt something empty out inside her-like a room with the furniture

The idea

like a beggar asking a banker to lend him the

accepted the challenge in front of the whole

the entrance, Sofina slowed her pace. The lobby felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from

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

Group. The sight

all every one

of them was hono

the same thing: a coffaboration with

on earth are you doing here?" a voice

and found Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim,

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

sentence.

let her walk in here?" Heinrich bowed his head like a man forced to swallow bile. "I'm sorry, Katarina. I tried. I truly did. I don't understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward and grabbed Sofina's wrist in a rough. "You're here

are you trying to fool?

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

just shoved by a guest-he forced her out into the entrance area. Do you

the

around Sofina's arm, dragging her down the

on his gloves,

gathering a pile

quietly, helping her pick them up.

head, frustrated. "It's Heinrich. No matter what I say, he

gently lifting her

nothing serious,"

handed her the last sheet. "You know, you don't need to print everything. The digital files are

the feel of paper. I like touching

his chest. "The same way I like

"You really

me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes I think it'd be better to live without

walked back through the glass

voice

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

froze. The color drained

that still

vanish overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if waiting

himself between

is Eden Group," Alex said. "You're a guest. You have

a guest here-l expect to be treated like a

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

Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place.

anything. He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a nearby figure. "Manager Wedell!" he

head of human resources, hurried over and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have

let out a derisive snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your

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

Your gardener. He insulted me and tried

turned and spotted Alex in his Eden Group gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you pretending to be one of our employees by

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

"You seem to forget your place. I'm

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

and

He's the one who tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't even

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

he's not joining?" Alex

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

Alex said calmly, shaking his head. "I

fired if

long time. Just kneel and

Heinrich-you kneel to

to gather, drawn by the rising tension. Laughter

someone jeered. "A 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

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

and

been desperate for my attention, haven't

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

Three bows, and

Alex's

sure everyone in Winchester hears about this.

I'll have the

you-even the Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing outcasts. And you know I can make

s

forward, but Sofina grabbed him tighter

but steady. "Let me handle

her face. She met his eyes. "Trust

stepped

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

curse.

you think you're doing, bitch!" Dietrich

strike Mister Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot

with a hand at the small of

security. Twenty lashes. She won't be standing after

syllable a command.

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

"The one who'll get

communication bracelet. "Security — attend.

head.

began to

hit

you know Heinrich's the man everyone

her!" another

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

a threat to her, an alert raced through

the household

just a home machine. Alex had wired her into his network

that touched Sofina reported to Eve first-she was

"Override the previous command.

robot optical sensors

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

security robot drew an electric whip from a

opened, and dark lines of blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop! Not

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

is already the most

confusion

robot didn't stop until Dietrich had taken

kicked him out, shoving him past the main

stood frozen, her mind struggling to catch up with the chaos unraveling

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

voice low and

lunged toward her, his hand swinging

the first time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over

was weak, but because she'd

closed on Heinrich and seized his arm. "Find someone your own size," he said,

go of

his temper under a hard lid. The

tightened his grip until Heinrich screamed like an animal, pain

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

go!" Heinrich gasped, tears

storm breaking loose. Her heels

-

offer - a bid to

become the

they were desperater

that Heinrich

hall, the polished calm of her diplomacy shattered. What she saw

Heinrich down, and Heinrich bled and

white with fury. She stormed over and slapped Alex hard. "You half-slave!"

you think you're doing to my Heinrich? Let him go this instant. How dare you strike him

police won't

that true?"

was Sofina. She hit my nose."

a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if you want-try to prove you're

still carried real

noble, the punishment could be death. If a

often

protected rank, not

a commoner, most people just accepted

power didn't need to explain

her sharp eyes