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!

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

now that Fressia hadn't been captured. With her level of skill, ordinary people wouldn't pose a threat to her even with her memory loss. So now he had no

this father-daughter duo taste despair, bit

and whispered, "Mr. Wilder, 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

them, Mr. Wilder,"

arrogance but confidence,

With the speed of carrier pigeons and their giant birds that people could ride, they should have arrived

and still no

your mentor won't

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

calmly, "If I were afraid, I wouldn't have let

fine.

as casually as if he

confidence was this? How strong

heard him before, they would have dismissed it

witnessed him severely injured Martin in a single move-it

you have any last words before

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

die."

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

pleaded, "I'm just still too young and made a terrible mistake in a moment of weakness. I truly know I was wrong

"You should've gone into acting with those skills. Let's set the fact that you harmed me

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

was Sean acting on his

by lust. It had nothing to do with

When it all happened, Heather was at the Netherworld

don't believe he acted alone. If it wasn't her, then it must've been you." Sebastian turned his gaze te Martin, his eyes full

intent.

belongs to s

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

definitely either one of you.

you trying to turn us against each

onlookers silently agreed, thinking that forcing them to choose

simply killing them

the survivor would live with the guilt

one minute to decide.

Heather's eyes were full of fear and

to die, but he also couldn't

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

and said, "Alright. I'll give

One million gold coins? Why don't you just rob

to live comfortably for a lifetime. One million

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

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

to the large amount of gold, Sebastian only asked

handed Sebastian ten notes, each

and left after receiving

kill Martin and Heather-not because he was merciful, but because he wanted to

Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick

ask you

to be so formal. Just tell

even deeper. Sebastian not only healed his wounds, which saved his life, but

a debt that Hendrick considered a second chance at

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

need your help to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a

artist, his drawing was

the woman in the picture

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

in Abigail's eyes. It was hard not to

been confident in herself, but after seeing

the drawing

matching her

the circumstances and timing of

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

Sebastian stayed at the chamber, waiting

people to take

he assigned Brork to

power first hand, Brork didn't dare

was

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

swallow this

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

is an

the Stonebrook family to

father and daughter then stepped out

family had arrived in large numbers,

man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the

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

truly graces our humble Knott Estate," Martin said

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

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

is as beautiful as a goddess, and today

she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes

reprimanded, "Camden, it's impolite to keep

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

smile. She was not angry at all.

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

advance by leaps and bounds, making

place among the four great ladies in the

Denzel smiled a

"My

once not long ago, and

love at first

lost

his appetite and many.

her. As his father, I

Cóntent

done speaking, he clapped his hands,

gleaming gold coins. They were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs, a box of

though smaller, contained

880 thousand gold coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a box of

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

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

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

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

Knott, are you satisfied with the

satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin

that mean you agree to

to be interested in my daughter is an

was feeling shy, but she was overjoyed inside. With the future title of daughter-in-law of the

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

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

cause trouble for you. Who might this

named

commoner.

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

he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not

call off the

heard about

Heather. I don't

understanding," Heather

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

herself, she hoped to handle the situation

marry him. But what I never expected was that the scoundrel

soon as we got engaged, he demanded that I sleep with

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

him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares to bully my woman

is very strong. Even my father couldn't defeat

30 years old. How could he be stronger

There are also herbs and

he's in his 20s, but

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

age is definitely well over

an early-stage divine grandmaster?

Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

four major families of the southern region, Camden would typically only

Estate, it was

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

her potential at five rings,

boundless potential and unimaginable future

beauty and talent compensated for her comparatively modest

and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the Stonebrook

especially those who secretly admired Heather, were equally

mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't want her even if she

obtaining a million gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in a

plan was to find Fressia, secure the third stage of the

to stockpile pills now to boost the cultivation of those

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

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

is for me, I

nodded. "Yes, you're

more than an attempt to use

Wilder, are you planning

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

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

is right. You

right into their

bunch of petty clowns. There's nothing to

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

"I appreciate your concern, but those

They're not

alone, fine. If they

ie

Wilder, the Stonebrook family is one of the four major families in the southern region,

added, "Mr. Wilder, please listen to

out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even if I skip

to confront them sooner rather than later,Chapter

and his group approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman suddenly blocked

in a colorful gown, with a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it

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

Sebastian nodded.

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

just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with a

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

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

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed and turned

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

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, trying to

made up. No more

and shook their heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to

atmosphere was

respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to personally

of the main figures of the day, Heather was overjoyed. After all, by the end of today, she would be

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

seen and touched by Sebastian

Sebastian.

had been keeping tabs on

report just at that moment, "Mr. Camden,

Lock down all the exits once he enters. Make

won't be able to get away, even if he sprouts wings," the

the

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

nodded again

and his companions

Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he

warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still showed

while gritting her teeth. "Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I can't decide if I should praise your bravery or

lightly and said, "This place isn't exactly a

"Stop playing dumb. Since you've come today,

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

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

to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet, here you are, shouting threats. Is this how

Camden sneered. "I invited you here just to kill you.

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

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

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

said, "Today is your engagement party. Killing someone

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

his smile was

furious. "What are you laughing at,

get it. There are so many good women out there. Why on earth did

dare you insult my woman? You've

lost it. This

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

elder, Trey Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking

don't get angry just yet. Hear me out.

practicing

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

day, shevited me

lured me into her room, and tried

"Shut up!"

while snapping,

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

responded, "Of course, I don't believe him. This guy has slandered my woman-this is

you

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

upset that

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

using an evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me off a cliff. If I hadn't been

my woman right in

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

He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be a joke if word gets

"Camden, this guy has ulterior

uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as

Whether Sebastian was telling the

planned to verify everything as soon as the engagement

felt as vast and overwhelming as the

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

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

at the early stage, whereas Septimus was

thought you had some sense in you, but you're a fool Youre allowing

to

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

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

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing she

Heather was

Even now, you're spouting lies! I swear I'll cut out your

wasn't a fool, and he was infuriated

the four major families of

a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His

pressure from his released aura alone made it

eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could do; they were powerless to

Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed

resounding sound,

Septimus let out a pained scream and staggered back in

him down and grabbed

"What?"

stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated in

was beyond

Kaitlyn were the most shocked. Not long ago,

most a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster,

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

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

Sebastian, his eyes filled

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

face was hidden, she had

more enticing than he had imagined.

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

out his own eyes, and breaks both his hands, I'll spare

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

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

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

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

frustrated, Kaitlyn said, "I didn't realize your strength

Stonebrook

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

replied, "Ms.

the

hard

miserably than

Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but in the end, she only gave

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

the chances were slim, at least

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook family

he shouted, "Sebastian

I won't be satisfied until I

his

didn't need Camden's order. He was already walking toward Sebastian, his

step forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall

be truly unfathomable. He's

of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability to fight beyond his level, comparable to

He struck so quickly before; this is definitely

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted,

and immediately drew it from its sheath. A

through the air, unleashing a wave of

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

be the Godslayer Blade of

the world with this sword, and

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

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

Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could

was Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

unable to bear watching Sebastian's

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

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. That all made

for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was in danger—she

far surpassed hers, and

that moment, she felt completely powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even

his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged

energy within a few miles surged violently, creating an oppressive

with weaker cultivation slumped

aimed to capture Sebastian alive, so his sword's target was

to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching

try and stop

of the expected sight of blood

"How is this possible?"

shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as they were unable to believe what they were

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

pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength, but

a slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go of the s go

if he was

examined the Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This

mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists

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

or be killed. If you think you can kill me, I can also

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

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

idiots. You two really are

Your whole family is!" Heather shouted angrily

still dare to shout at me.

plan to kill us?"

and afraid as he said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family will

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

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

stunned into silence. No one could believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring his intent

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

Our family has stood strong for over a thousand years, with

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

in

dare!"

down, he was already afraid of him. He gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as

Sebastian looked at him with disdain. He took a step

weighed down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed to the ground,

remain standing, their legs

Kill him!" Camden

were filled with terror, they had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting their

the fray. Instead,

forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent flying. Before they even hit the ground, they all

from the Stonebrook family had been

The

was terrifying.

the ground, and her face

rushed toward Heather. He

into the air, attempting to

little Jonathan stepped forward to shield the nervous clerk

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

so hard the tight bun at the back of her head

spread through

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

and the child, the day

shy. "Thank you," she murmured, sincerity softening

smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly

thanking you," he replied, voice

slipped a hand into the miniature pocket of his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added, "Every outfit you

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

had chosen started at well over ten thousand,

the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as

required

wanted an entire rack of adult

in Ivy's expression. "Of course," she said, nearly breathless with

from velvet hangers

other employees watched, envy shining

the down payment on a new

more.

understanding precisely why Jonathan was

guided Nathaniel

really is

over eight million." s

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

Jonathan said, firm as

flicked to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card through the polished

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

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

with matching courtesy. "Ms. Ivy,

finally set the

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

to

widened, first in wonder, then alarm. A quick shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's far too expensive," she blurted, hands rising like a pair of stop signs.

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 rough patch, come to me—no

Jonathan had delivered a

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

enough to reach his thigh, and asked,

miss a beat. “Oh. Ms. Kennedy wanted me to pop in and pick out a few outfits for Uncle Zachary. This is just a quick errand on

knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best

"Your Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts you," he

Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci never

mood darkened like a sky before

and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty sure that one

the first fib, it was only because Vivian's eccentricity made

like an adult compared to

never delegate adult shopping to

gaze sharpened. "You've figured something

Jonathan blinked, performing

a quiet breath. “When it comes to social-grade lying, you're still

hadn't expected to be exposed so fast, and the realization

theatrical sigh. “Are you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes could study every

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

Elliot, but none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves

mouth opened, then snapped shut.Am I showing

exactly where did

face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as if

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

stayed shut far

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

the corridor, she almost collided

bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded with shopping bags bulging

two been? And what on earth

forward, intent on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel spoke

gifts,” he said smoothly.

had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching the hole

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

gaped, utterly bewildered. When have I ever

cleared his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding flashed

to carrying the constipation story on his

been skimping on water

eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and

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

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

his cheeks until his whole

confessed the problem, never imagining the confession

ages since Cecilia had hugged him like

really. I'll be fine if I drink more

the model child, obedient, courteous, eager to spare adults

won't do. Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation

it with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce a lifesaving

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

but honestly, Mommy, I don't need them,” he whispered, the words

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

and ordered suppositories plus half a

gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the small box into Jonathan's

If you're not sure how to

me? Jonathan stared at the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair

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

I can

She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming

help pitying him. So young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation.

bathroom with you," she said, voice low and

"Okay."

and bolted down the hallway toward

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

doesn't

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

little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of pitiful," he breathed, each syllable

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

you have to take

layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back while he struck every pose his imagination

the little photoshoot ended, she pinged the piChapter

Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in

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 uneaten cookies, and funny anecdotes typed at

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

by little, life seemed to find

and the children be able to come back for a

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

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

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

Bethany for a good while longer, then finally ended

Elliot collapsed

a rare hush, holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered

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

"Ceci."

in surprise. "What is

all we're doing today?" His

What do you mean?" Confusion knitted her

eyes. "Nothing,"

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

worry eclipsing her earlier cheer. "What's the

took a single step closer, the scent of

could speak

long arms swept

swift, possessive motion,

her against his chest, as though staking a

really have

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

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

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

settling atop her hair as if the

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

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

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

slipping past her irritation. "You left the country that

arrange for Elliot and

Besides, Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still

།

Elliot. As for Jonathan, let

a hand, the pad of his finger brushing

"Hmm?"

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

it click. Her proud, composed husband was

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

eyes darkened, a storm gathering behind the calm

bolted down the hallway, bare feet whispering

stunned that she would dare make a break for it, then sprang

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

door. "There are plenty of spare rooms in

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

deadbolt turned, and

against the windows, but inside, heat pooled between

light, snow glare slicing through the curtains and

opened her eyes to find Nathaniel's face less than an inch away.

over that faint roughness,

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open, hazy

awake?” he murmured, drawing her even closer until her breath mingled with

came out in a whisper, pressed tight

by a fraction, closed his eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just a little

friends a full day of window-shopping

arms and mumbled, "Give me a few more

how clingy he could be, warmth and

when were you this attached? I never

his mouth. "I

ruffled his hair, dark strands springing up beneath

a busy day ahead," she

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

shook her head.

are you buying?” he asked, still unwilling to release

for Mom, and something nice

note of suspicion

"Nope."

her head. He had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every hanger she

her fingers loose, voice low and

when I leave

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

through quiet hallways,

1.

spirited Jon and Elliot off to RaiChapter

an idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted,

only a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had any chance of working with the

idiot with

face went pale, then burned red. He spun toward the Baroness. “I—I didn't mean

kin had mocked her-Beatrix and

of all people, it was Alex-the outcast, the

seeing Sofina

this

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

The room fell silent.

she said. "I'll do my

a

into a sneer. "Go on, Sofina -try all you want.

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

of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle worker? That

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

sneering. Tell me, Beatrix-what's your real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking your own

not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal,

curved slow and dangerous. "No, you're not being realistic-you're being a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up as wisdom. And you know what they

a fool if you

make this interesting. What if she does succeed? Want to make

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

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

"But if Sofina fails, I want both of you

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

chimed in, "Count me in too! If I

raising a brow. "Alright.

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

how about this—if

laughing. "Ha! You're really digging your own grave, loser!

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

said calmly. "But if I win, you'll accept our marriage- no

really think you can win this? I've already recorded the bet and sent the

"Perfect," he said. "I

didn't even glance at them. She couldn't

family could actually secure that collaboration with the

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

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

"Trust? No. Desperation?

"That's supposed to

to someone who hasn't met

"Hey, at least I bet on your

a brow. "You really think this bet will

"It'll show who's got guts and who's

"And

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

a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were

won from Nikolaus-a machine so rare in Winchester that it

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

on the wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy for a gardener like

Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother

can."

glancing at him. "You really think this is

We're on our way up. And

half amused. "I wish I

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

the Eden Group's towering

luck," Sofina whispered as

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

QUMS

moment, her nerves eased. She

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

into the sky like a polished god. The

with them was like a beggar asking

accepted the challenge in front

entrance, Sofina slowed her pace. The lobby felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all dressed in tailored suits and

low but tense, each waiting

The

all every one

of them was hono

a coffaboration with

are you

found Heinrich standing with

the way a judge's did before

sentence.

I don't understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward and grabbed Sofina's wrist in a rough. "You're here to attract attention," he hissed. "I told you

Who the hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal

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

a guest-he forced her out into the entrance area. Do you want us

me the footage," Alex

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

pulled on his gloves, and strode out

gathering a pile of scattered papers. He knelt beside

he said quietly, helping her pick

what I

Alex asked, gently lifting her chin, checking for

nothing serious,"

don't need to print everything. The digital files

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

brushed his chest. "The same way

"You really are

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

as they walked back through

a voice cracked

barked, stepping forward. "What the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I don't want you near me, you

The color drained

saw it-the invisible chain that still tied her to

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

himself

a guest. You have no

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

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

an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a

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

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

would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted

Heinrich said coldly. "That's the man. Your gardener.

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

all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here.

closer. "You seem to forget your place.

Human Resources. I can fire you anytime I want.

and beg

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

have any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one of the brightest

he's not joining?" Alex

nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I make sure you regret

Alex said calmly, shaking

be fired if

long time. Just kneel and bow three times,

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

the rising tension. Laughter rippled through them like

jeered. "A gardener trying to stand up to

in. "That gardener's got a name. You know

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

and

for my attention, haven't you?

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

bows, and I

around Alex's arm, her knuckles

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

have the whole

Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing outcasts. And you

s

stepped forward, but Sofina grabbed him tighter and shook her

steady. "Let

hesitated, searching her face. She met his

Sofina stepped forward

hit me, bitch-" He spat the word

curse.

name do you think

Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her,

with a hand

She won't be standing after that

it," Heinrich said, every syllable a command. "Give her what

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

"The one who'll get hurt

communication bracelet. "Security — attend.

head. "I warned

crowd began to

hit Heinrich," someone

Heinrich's the man everyone

another voice

unit glided forward and ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses swept over Sofina, cold

flagged a threat to her, an alert raced through the

the room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina

machine. Alex had wired her into his network bridge so she could talk to

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

into the network. "Override the previous command. Secure Dietrich and

robot optical sensors swung

taser and slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The shock hit him like

security robot drew an electric whip from a holster and began lashing

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

alarm. "Is

most

of confusion

robot didn't stop until Dietrich had taken

it finished, it hauled him to his feet and kicked him out, shoving him past the main

frozen, her mind struggling to catch up with the chaos

wiped the blood away with the back

hissed, voice low and venomous.

lunged toward her, his hand swinging

time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over and over

because she was weak,

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

let go of me!"

hard lid. The government cameras watched

screamed like an

a hand that felt as if bone and

you let me go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on his

loose. Her heels struck the

-

bid to replace the Krugers, who'd been kicked out of Eden's

to become the

they were

promised Eden that Heinrich would cooperate if the

the main hall, the polished calm of her diplomacy

Heinrich down, and

over and slapped

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

the police won't help

that true?"

was Sofina. She hit my nose." Heinrich

and held herself steady. "So what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a

nobles still carried real power. The law bent for

noble, the punishment could be death. If

and swift. More often than not, the blame settled on

protected

people

Prussia — power didn't

sharp