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."

"You're delusional! My mentor is one of the Grand Elders of the Netherworld Sect! She has unfathomable power andChapter 658

Heather had pleaded for help from her mentor, Bertha, while Sebastian stood there waiting.

He already knew by now that Fressia hadn't been captured. With her level of skill, ordinary people wouldn't pose a threat to her even with her memory loss. So now he had no reason to worry about anything.

Today, he was determined to make this father-daughter duo taste despair, bit by bit.

Hendrick approached Sebastian 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 you can handle them?"

"They're just ants," Sebastian replied dismissively.

"Just don't underestimate them, Mr. Wilder," Hendrick cautioned.

remained unfazed. It wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence rooted in

pigeons and their giant birds that people could ride, they should have arrived

hours had passed, and still no

won't be coming," Sebastian

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

responded calmly, "If I were afraid, I wouldn't have let you call for

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

a powerful sect as casually as if he were talking about

this? How strong did

would have dismissed it as bluster, and not even

they had just witnessed him severely injured Martin in a single

do you have any last

much that her legs gave out. She fell 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

die."

cold 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, I wouldn't be standing

pleaded, "I'm just still too young and made a terrible mistake in a moment of weakness. I truly know I was wrong now. Please give me a chance to change. I'll devote myself to you and serve you well as

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

had her beaten severely, and even tried to

doing! It was

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

her. When it all happened,

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

intent.

belongs to s

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

definitely either one of you. So,

trying to turn us against each other? How

thinking that forcing them to choose would be

than simply

all, the survivor would live with the guilt

one minute

eyes were full of fear and

words. He didn't want to die, but he also couldn't bear to lose

can negotiate. Let us go, and just name your

said, "Alright. I'll give you a

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

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

can just kill your daughter, and you won't have to

Martin gritted his teeth,

amount of gold, Sebastian only asked for gold

Martin handed Sebastian ten

and left after receiving

he was merciful, but because he wanted to take his time

Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton Chamber of

to ask you

no need to be so formal. Just

had grown even deeper. Sebastian not only healed his wounds, which saved

Hendrick considered a second chance

second grade alchemist, with immeasurable strength to

help to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then drew an image

wasn't a professional artist, his drawing was remarkably

Wilder, is the woman in the picture

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

in Abigail's eyes. It was

confident in herself, but

in the drawing

matching her own beauty.

circumstances and timing

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

at the chamber, waiting for updates.

to arrange for some people

Brork to

terrifying power first hand, Brork didn't dare to

word of refusal. He was completely

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter

and asked, "Are

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

ask the

father and daughter then stepped out to greet their

large numbers, bringing an abundance

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

was a young man of about 26 years old. Though his appearance was average,

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

said, "Mr. Knott, you're

that; it's our honor. Please, come in." Martin led the father and son into the sitting room

straight to the point, saying, "I've long heard that your daughter is as beautiful as a goddess, and today I see the reputation is

shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated

it's impolite to

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

a bashful smile. She was not angry at

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

her strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only a matter of time before she

might even secure a place among the

Denzel smiled a

"My

not

love at first sight for

lost

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

Denzel was done speaking, he clapped his hands, and

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

though smaller, contained dozens of

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

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

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

the body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and greatly enhance a

pills significantly improved their constitution, accelerated

said proudly, "Mr. Knott, are you satisfied with the Stonebrook family's

satisfied, actually,"

does that mean you agree to

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

shy, but she was overjoyed inside. With the future title of daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family, who would dare disrespect

setting it for a year later. Martin then mentioned Sebastian

whose strength is formidable and

cause trouble for

"It's a scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's just a

commoner.

doctors, none could

I was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not just to reveal how despicable he

we can call off the

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

I don't mind. It wasn't

Heather forced

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

up herself, she hoped to handle

what I never expected was that

we got engaged, he demanded

woman and naturally refused him. He then

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

Even

be under 30 years old.

their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and

20s,

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

real age is definitely well over

"Isn't he just an early-stage divine grandmaster?

of Heather and Camden's engagement spread

the southern region, Camden would typically only

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

on par

at five rings, placing her on the same level as Kaitlyn and the Netherworld Sect's

genius with boundless potential

talent compensated

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

who secretly admired Heather, were equally

news, but he paid it no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything

million gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in a vast amount of herbs

the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether

boost the cultivation of those around him once he got

Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One day, after finishing his pill refinement session, Hendrick came to

Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at

is for me, I

nodded. "Yes, you're

intentions-it was nothing more than an attempt

Wilder, are you planning

go, wouldn't I be letting them down?" Sebastian replied with

said, "Mr. Wilder, I think it's best if you don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their invitation is definitely not sincere it's clear they want to

"My father is right. You

walking right

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

but the Stonebrook family has many powerful figures. If you go you're bound

Hendrick warned.

to .net

appreciate your concern, but those

clowns. They're not worth worrying

alone, fine. If they dare provoke

ie

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

please listen to us and

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

better to confront them sooner rather

of Knott Estate, a

in a colorful gown, with a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was Kaitlyn, the distinguished lady of the

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

Sebastian nodded.

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

just to tell

run into you and thought I'd give

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

scoffed and turned

Ms. Gardner says so, then it's surely true. Why

to become a peerless force in the future. Just bide your time," Abigail added,

up. No more advice, please," Sebastian

both sighed and shook their heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to his doom. All

was festive and filled with

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

day, Heather was overjoyed. After all, by the end of

and his face was beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning and neredibly

Camden still had a thorn in his side-Heather's body had already been seen and touched by Sebastian So the only way to remove that thorn was to

Sebastian.

on Sebastian's movements,

at that moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian has

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

is in place. He won't be able to get away, even if he sprouts wings,"

the way, has my father

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

nodded again

moment, Sebastian and his companions

he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when

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

had the guts to come. I can't decide if I should praise your bravery or

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

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

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

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

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

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

to congratulate the couple,

live. I can't

Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian.

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

care about such things. If you want to live today, the only way is to do as I

laughed and his

furious. "What are you laughing at, you

There are so many good women out there. Why on earth did you choose someone as despicable

You've got some

it. This guy must

he had done as Mr. Camden asked, he might have had a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott?

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

out. I was simply speaking the truth. You don't know how

been practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to enhance

One day,

Estate, lured me into her room, and

"Shut up!"

turned pale and quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting nonsense and

he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You

responded, "Of course, I don't believe him. This guy has slandered

do you have?"

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

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

worry. No matter what he says, I

and ended up sleeping with her. But what I didn't expect was that she was using an evil cultivation

woman right in front

can have her

don't listen to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be a

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

moment, and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept

ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was

Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as soon as the

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

grandmaster? Just the aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate.

While they were also divine grandmasters, there

Septimus was a middle-stage divine

"Camden, I originally thought you had some

you wish you were dead!" Camden snapped angrily. Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep talking. Heather is nothing

scratch marks on

her hand. In truth, Sebastian was

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing

tricked, Heather

lies! I swear I'll cut out your tongue and

wasn't a fool, and he was infuriated

families of the southern region, with

divine grandmaster. His power

his released aura alone made it hard for anyone

But there was little they could do; they were powerless to

as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered, reacting faster and landing a punch directly into Septimus's

sound,

Septimus let out a pained scream and staggered

him down and grabbed Septimus

"What?"

utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been

strength was beyond

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

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

erupted in fury. "I've really underestimated you. If you release Septimus

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

approached Sebastian, his eyes filled with murderous

Camden, can you do me a favor? I'll have him

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

close distance, Camden found her even more enticing than he had imagined. He nodded and said, "I'll grant

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

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

Camden, isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking

for offering this. This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone that left

Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I

isn't some death trap.

didn't realize your strength was so formidable, but you still can't

Stonebrook

Gouging out your eyes and breaking your hands

replied, "Ms. Gardner, I

not in the habit of

know it's hard to

miserably than to

to say something, but in the end, she only

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

at least Sebastian could die fighting

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook family

as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder,

I won't be satisfied until

cripple his cultivation for

was already walking toward Sebastian, his aura growing increasingly

intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on

must be truly unfathomable. He's probably

Trey has the ability

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a

the sword and immediately drew it from its sheath. A

resonated through the air, unleashing

feeling as though they had fallen into

Godslayer Blade of

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

Camden

Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could

Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could slice through iron like it was

was Sebastian, empty-handed-what

her eyes, unable to

deeply resented the man who had taken her virginity, but

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

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

had come to realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers,

kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her

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

few miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere that weighed down

with weaker cultivation slumped to

Sebastian alive, so his sword's target was Sebastian's

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

courting death!" Trey sneered, his expression filled with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique

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

"How is this possible?"

was equally stunned as they were unable to believe what they

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

energy, trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength, but it didn't

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

if he was jolted

the Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not

the sword back!" Trey shouted in a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and

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

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

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

cocky! The Stonebrook family's power is beyond anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top experts in the

of idiots. You two really are made for each

the idiot! Your whole family is!" Heather shouted angrily at

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

plan to kill us?" Heather was suddenly

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

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

By the end,

into silence. No one could believe how brazen Sebastian

that he

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

my house to admit

in a grave, you won't be around

dare!" Camden

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

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

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

struggled to remain standing, their

Kill him!" Camden commanded

were filled with terror, they had no

join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos

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

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

cake. The

was terrifying.

and her face became pale with

Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her by

leapt into the air, attempting to escape.Chapter

nervous clerk and decided to let the matter drop,

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

nodding so hard the tight

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

had dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered a

danger and the child, the day would have ended

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

smile-courteous, almost grown-up,

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

out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he

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

had chosen started at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended to buy the

fingers hovered around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she sought Nathaniel's

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

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

course," she said,

from velvet hangers into satin-lined

watched,

commission this large could cover the down payment on

more.

standing nearby and everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying,

Ivy guided

register, she leaned down, voice barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or two pieces back? Together they

over eight million." s

never have taken a job at a boutique this

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

he offered no objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card through the

in disbelief. The

choosing us." Ivy presented the card with both hands, as though

it with matching courtesy. "Ms. Ivy, I truly

set the receipt

magician, he indicated a

to whatever gentleman keeps you company."

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

apairof

today. Compared with that, a jacket

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

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

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

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

and Mom's best friend would never check up on

Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts

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

darkened like a sky before

"Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase

it

like an

She would never delegate

gaze sharpened. "You've figured something out,

Jonathan blinked, performing

out a quiet breath. “When it comes

expected to be exposed so fast, and the

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

civil smile. "Why

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

shut.Am I showing it that

cleared his throat. “And exactly where did

Dad.” Jon shrugged as if stating

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

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

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

in the corridor, she almost collided

noticed the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded

And what on earth is

stepped forward, intent on inspecting the loot, but

he said smoothly.

clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching the

heads-up would have been nice. I was starting

bewildered. When have I

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

the constipation

I guess I've been skimping on water lately," Jon

flooded her eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him into a full- bodied embrace that smelled of warm

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

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

up without warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks until his whole face burned

problem, never imagining the confession would buy him this

had been ages since Cecilia had

Mommy, really. I'll be fine if I drink

the model child, obedient, courteous,

do. Maybe we should buy medicine.

gravity, the way

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

whispered, the words nearly swallowed by

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

speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's worth of

they reached home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the

If you're not sure how to use

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

anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his head so hard

can manage

can handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that only made the boy's ears flame

young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation.

she said, voice low

"Okay."

contraband and bolted down the hallway

He watched his brother's retreating and,

doesn't look it," Elliot muttered

stare. "Don't tease your brother. He's having a hard enough time

surprise

her hands. “Come on," she

you have to take

by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back while he struck every

photoshoot ended, she pinged the piChapter

departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia

her life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug, photos

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

by little, life seemed

children be able to come back

her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side of

have decided. We'll come right after the New

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

while longer, then

final outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their beds,

only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid

intent on stealing five minutes of calm when Nathaniel suddenly shifted

"Ceci."

surprise. "What is

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

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

clouded Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing,"

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

her earlier cheer. "What's the matter? Who

took a single step closer, the scent of cedar from his freshly pressed

could speak

long arms swept

swift, possessive motion,

though staking a

really have

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

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

If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees this,

atop her hair as if the

other? They're not babies anymore. They should understand,"

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

overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words

arched, genuine amazement slipping past her irritation.

them. Let's arrange for

regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps

།

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

lifted a hand, the pad of his finger

"Hmm?"

can't stand to be apart from the kids, yet you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives.

composed husband was jealous

laugh slipped out before she could suppress it. "Of course, the kids outrank you. I risked my life to bring

eyes darkened, a storm gathering

twisted free of Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the hallway,

it, then sprang

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

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

he slipped inside, scooped her up again,

turned,

winter wind hissed against the windows, but inside, heat

glare slicing through the curtains and painting the room in chilled

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

her trace a finger over that faint roughness, then lower

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open, hazy with

murmured, drawing her even closer until her

Her voice came out in a whisper, pressed tight between

his eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just a little longer." "It's already nine. We really have to get

a full day

arms and mumbled, "Give me a

realize how clingy he could be, warmth and

were you this attached? I never

grin tugged at his mouth. "I was younger. Didn't know

hair, dark strands springing up

moving. I have a busy day ahead,"

hand again. "Ceci, after you hit the

shook her head. "That's it.

asked, still unwilling to release

New clothes for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa

His tone carried a note of suspicion wrapped

"Nope."

studied Nathaniel with a puzzled tilt of her head. He had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet

He gently pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat.

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

clicked shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until

quiet hallways, and stepped onto

1.

had spirited Jon and Elliot off to RaiChapter

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

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

called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with half a brain for daring

red. He spun toward the

Wolfsbane's hands trembled on the table. Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and

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

But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet

this one

Every last one of you! From this

The room fell silent.

stood. "Don't worry, Grandma," she said. "I'll do my

Beatrix a smug grin

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

lift this family up, while you bury it in arrogance and shame. You're

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

will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's dream—and I believe in my wife's intelligence

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

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

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

snapped. "You're a fool if you think any of this

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

I'm scared? Name your

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

twitched, "Deal," she said through clenched teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want

a half-smile. "Then let's see who

suddenly chimed in, "Count me in too! If I win, I

her, raising a

arms, chin lifted. "I won't lose. But fine-I'll

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

laughing. "Ha! You're really digging

"If you lose, I

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

I've already recorded the bet and sent the document to the government

said. "I like it when everyone

them. She

was one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family

"Sofina, you have three days to negotiate and close the

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

smirked. "Trust?

him a look. "That's

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

I bet on your

brow. "You really think

show who's got guts and who's got

crossed her arms. "And what if

finally fit right in with

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

her, Alex drove the sleek black luxury car they'd won from Nikolaus-a machine so rare in

uneasily, watching the reflections glide across the car's polished hood, “we should

"Maybe it's too

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

can."

him. "You really think this

looking away from the road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up.

head, half anxious, half

That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon;

the Eden Group's towering headquarters, its glass

Sofina whispered

doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener of the Eden Group. That

QUMS

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

and felt something empty

Group's glass façade rose into the sky like a polished god. The idea

a beggar asking a banker to

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

like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all

voices low but tense, each waiting for

Group. The sight

all every one

of them was hono

the same thing: a coffaboration

What on earth are you doing

and found Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim,

the way a judge's did

sentence.

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

you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group. You're

security drone glided into the room, humming softly as its sensors locked

by a guest-he forced her out into the entrance area.

me the footage,"

recording. Heinrich's hand clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging her down

his gloves, and strode out

found Sofina crouched on the floor, gathering a pile of scattered papers. He knelt beside

said quietly, helping her pick

Heinrich. No matter what I say,

you?" Alex asked, gently lifting her chin,

serious," she

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

But I like the feel

brushed his chest. "The same way I like

chuckled. "You

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

other as they walked back through the glass corridor of

a voice

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 from

it-the invisible chain that still tied her to

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

placing himself between Sofina and

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

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

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

of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener. When I'm finished, you'll be out of

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

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

But somebody in your place had the nerve

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

Heinrich said coldly. "That's the man. Your gardener. He insulted me and

gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are

all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt officially registered, the security

to forget your place.

Resources. I can fire you anytime I want. Now,

Kneel and beg for

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 minds in

not joining?" Alex

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

shaking

if you don't!" Dietrich

darkly. "Come on, Alex. We've known each other a long time. Just kneel and bow three times, and maybe

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

by the

at that," someone jeered. "A gardener trying to stand up to Heinrich? The man really

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

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

and turned

been desperate for my attention,

who doesn't know his place. How about

bows, and I

around Alex's

make sure everyone in Winchester hears about this. You have offended Heinrich

I'll have the

you'll be nothing outcasts. And you know

s

him tighter and shook her head.

steady. "Let me handle

hesitated, searching her face. She met his

Sofina stepped

was red as a boil. "You hit me, bitch-"

curse.

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

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

supporting him with a hand at

She won't be standing after that her flesh

Heinrich said, every syllable a command. "Give

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

who'll get

bracelet. "Security —

head.

crowd began to close

dare she hit

know Heinrich's the man everyone

another

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

moment the system flagged a threat to her, an

the room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina had left at

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

node. Any device that touched Sofina reported to

previous command. Secure

security robot optical

Dietrich's chest. The shock hit him like a

an electric whip from a holster

of blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop! Not me - her! You're whipping the

from triumph to alarm. "Is the

most advanced," someone muttered, half in

of confusion

until Dietrich

and kicked him out, shoving him past

struggling to catch

wiped the blood away with the

hissed, voice low and venomous. "I'll

lunged toward her, his hand swinging through the

time. Heinrich had

because she was weak, but because she'd once mistaken her submission

"Find someone your own size," he said,

slave — let go of

hard lid.

like an animal, pain folding

knees, clutching at a hand that felt as if bone

gasped, tears wet on

storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the marble floor with

-

finished presenting their offer - a bid to replace

win Eden's favor, to become the next family tied to its vast

they were desperater

same breath she'd promised Eden that Heinrich would cooperate if the contract went to

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

Heinrich down, and Heinrich bled

She stormed over and

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

eyes and released Heinrich's arm. "Calling the police won't help you," he said coolly. "I didn't hit

true?"

She hit my nose."

herself steady. "So what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if you want-try to prove you're better. Go

Prussia, nobles still carried real

punishment could be death. If a commoner

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

protected rank, not

a noble struck a commoner, most people just accepted it. That was the

Prussia — power didn't need

her sharp eyes to

know why you married Sofina — to make me jealous, to get my attention. Well, you've got it.

I won't divorce her. Go

have

at this for you and for your Sant Claire family. When im done with Heinrich, if you behave

at her, disbelief hardening his face.

That everyone just spins

that, Alex!" Katarina snapped. "It's already a blessing that I'm even willing to marry you. How dare you disobey me! I command you divorce

gone. Just the sound of her voice gave him a headache. He took Sofina's hand and

Katarina shouted. "Kneel! Now!" Katarina's voice cracked with fury and desperation.

something she

him.

the memories still haunted her - the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her from the world, how he cared for her without needing a

was

had been dreading this moment. He didn't want

take another step, her hand shot out and clamped

fierce and cold, while his

stop, Alex," Katarina

Before I lose my temper." She stepped closer. "Remember when I made you kneel in

not my wife anymore. I don't owe you a damn thing.

Katarina hissed, and her hand whipped across his face. The slap cracked through the hall like a gunshot. "Don't you dare defy me, Alex. I own