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.

wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence rooted in his

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

two hours had passed, and

mentor won't be coming," Sebastian

I'm the Netherworld Sect's once-in-a-millennium

calmly, "If I were afraid, I wouldn't have let you call for help, nor

fine. But if they do, I'll just wipe them

a powerful sect as casually

kind of confidence was this? How strong did

have dismissed it as

him severely injured Martin

last words before you die?"

me. For the sake of the one night we shared as husband and wife, spare my life.

die."

a 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

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

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

severely, and even tried to humiliate my wife. Such malice-how could I

was Sean acting on his

to do with me," Heather quickly tried

vouch for her. When it all happened, Heather was at the

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

intent.

belongs to s

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

it's definitely either one of you.

trying to turn us against each other? How vicious!" Martin shouted

thinking that forcing them to choose would be

than simply killing

survivor would

giving you one minute

were full

was at a loss for words. He didn't want to

can negotiate. Let us go, and just name

give you a chance. I want one million gold

you just rob a bank?" Martin nearly jumped

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

I can just kill your

pay!" Martin gritted his teeth, feeling

amount of gold, Sebastian only asked for

long after, Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each

word and left after receiving

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

Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick

to ask you for a

replied, "Mr. Wilder, there's no need to be so formal. Just

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

Hendrick considered a second chance

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

to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen,

wasn't a professional artist, his drawing was remarkably

in

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

was hard

but after

in the

her own

explained the circumstances and timing of Fressia's

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

stayed at the chamber, waiting for

for some people

he assigned Brork to protect her in

terrifying power first

was completely subdued, with

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

can't swallow

Heather and asked, "Are

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

ask the

father and daughter then stepped out to greet

large numbers, bringing an abundance of betrothal

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

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

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

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

Please, come in." Martin led the father and

daughter is as beautiful as a goddess, and today I see

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

to keep staring at Ms.

up, saying, "I'm sorry,

was not angry at all. In

could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would be like

by leaps and bounds, making

might even secure a place among the four great ladies

Denzel smiled a

said, "My

not long

first sight for

he lost

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

speaking, he clapped his hands, and

box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs, a box of antique paintings, a box of aged wine, and

box, though smaller, contained

gold coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a box of premium

had truly gone all out. The gold

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

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

improved their constitution, accelerated their training

"Mr. Knott, are you

satisfied, actually," Martin

does that mean you agree to

Camden is a remarkable man. For him to be interested in my daughter is

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

date, setting it for a year

strength is formidable

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

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

commoner.

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

of the situation and insisted I take off my clothes before he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not just to reveal how despicable

can call off the engagement, Mr.

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

I don't

Heather forced out a

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

she hoped to

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

he demanded that

naturally refused him. He then tried to force

don't worry. Anyone who

is very strong. Even my father couldn't

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

lifespans increase. There are also herbs and pills that extend life

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

is at least at the early

real age is

an

and Camden's engagement spread quickly,

families of the southern

as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it was

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

Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level as Kaitlyn and the

was a genius with boundless potential

compensated for her

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

secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their hopes seemingly

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

Martin, Sebastian invested in a

of the cultivation technique- whether by

now to 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 see

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

One of them is for me,

nodded. "Yes, you're

through Martin's intentions-it was nothing more than an attempt to

"Mr. Wilder, are

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

to the core and their invitation is definitely not

agreement. "My father is right.

right into their

clowns. There's nothing to fear,"

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

appreciate your concern,

They're

If they dare provoke me,

ie

Wilder, the Stonebrook family is one of the four major families in the southern region, even stronger than the Netherworld Sect. They shouldn't be underestimated

"Mr. Wilder, please listen to us and

If they're out for revenge, they'll cook

them sooner rather than

of Knott

with a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was Kaitlyn, the

Gardner, is there something you need from me?" Sebastian asked. "Are you heading to the engagement banquet?" Kaitlyn

Sebastian nodded.

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

here just to tell

happened to run into you and thought I'd give

expect you to care so much about me. Could it be that

Kaitlyn scoffed and turned to

"Mr. Wilder, if Ms. Gardner says so, then it's surely true. Why don't we turn

you're destined to become a peerless

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

heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to his doom. All they could probably do now was retrieve his

Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled with

Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to

was overjoyed. After all, by the end of today, she

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

been seen and touched by Sebastian So the only way to remove that

Sebastian.

tabs on Sebastian's movements, and

report just at that moment, "Mr.

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

worry, Mr. Camden. Everything is in place. He won't be able to get away, even if he

in satisfaction. "By the way,

issues and likely won't make it today. But with

nodded again

moment, Sebastian and his companions entered Knott

doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he spotted

family's plan, yet he still showed up. Was he walking into his own demise?Chapter

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

said, "This place isn't exactly a

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

wore a mocking smile. "Brat, today next year

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

I came here to congratulate

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

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

reputation. Mr. Camden would never let him live. I can't tell if this guy

to hurl insults. Among all the people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done to her, seeing him in danger made

looked at Camden and said, "Today is your engagement

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

laughed and his smile was full of

immediately grew furious. "What are you laughing

Camden, I really don't get it. There are so many good women out there. Why on earth did you choose

my woman? You've got some

lost it. This

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth. You

practicing

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

One day, shevited

into her

"Shut up!"

quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting

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

don't believe him. This guy has slandered my woman-this is

you have?" Camden

wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and

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

"Don't worry. No matter

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 lucky, I

"To slander my woman right in front of me... you've got some

believe me, you can have her checked. If I'm lying, you can do with me as you wish,"

listen to him! He's making it all up! Even if

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

long moment, and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he wondered, "Could this guy be telling

Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or not, he had to

Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as soon as the

immediately approached Sebastian, releasing a powerful aura that felt as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making

is the power of a divine grandmaster? Just the aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate.

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

the early stage, whereas Septimus was a middle-stage divine grandmaster,

fear. He smirked mockingly and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're a fool Youre allowing this malicious woman to manipulate you so

me to shut up, but I'll still keep

a few scratch marks on her chest because I got

Sebastian was just bluffing;

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon

tricked, Heather

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

he

of the four major families of the southern region, with all their elders being

a middle-stage divine grandmaster.

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

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

hand reached out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed

resounding sound, Septimus'

a pained scream

swift movement, Sebastian chased him

"What?"

chaos. Everyone was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine

strength was beyond

and Kaitlyn were the most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian had participated

them, Sebastian was just an ordinary person, perhaps at most a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why would he bother

underestimated you. If you release Septimus now, I might leave your corpse

Stonebrook family! If

approached Sebastian, his

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

face was hidden, she had an undeniable

even more enticing than he had imagined. He

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

breaks both his hands, I'll spare his

gouging out his eyes and breaking his

rather kind for offering this. This is my bottom

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

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

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

Stonebrook

imagination. Gouging out your eyes and breaking your

and replied, "Ms.

in the

it's hard to accept,

five miserably than

to say something, but in the end,

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

were slim, at least

"Septimus!"

the Stonebrook

with rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder,

I won't be satisfied until I torture you for

cripple his cultivation for

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

his presence intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on the hard

must be truly

that Trey has the

is? He struck so quickly before; this

Everyone nodded in agreement.

sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a

caught the sword and immediately drew it from its sheath. A

resonated through the air, unleashing

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

this be the Godslayer Blade of the

this sword,

was stunned. They hadn't expected Camden to

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

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

was Sebastian,

closed her eyes, unable to bear watching

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

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

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

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

kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her entire Netherworld Sect would

grandmaster Trey wielded the Godslayer Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It

violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere

with weaker cultivation slumped to

so his sword's target was

blade was about to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching

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

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

"How is this possible?"

with shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned

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

the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He

hand it over," Sebastian said calmly. With a slight exertion of his spiritual energy,

he was

"This sword is

of anger and panic,

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

you can kill

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

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

two really are

you calling idiots? You're the idiot! Your whole family is!"

shout at me. If

kill us?" Heather

dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not just

to me, I'll kill that person. If you send two, I'll kill both of them. If you

as he spoke. By the end, his

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

and thought that he was lying. However, after witnessing

family has

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

or not I end up in a grave, you won't be around

you dare!"

was already afraid of him. He gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him

with disdain. He took a step forward,

down on everyone present.

to remain standing, their legs

him!" Camden commanded

the Stonebrook family were filled with terror, they had no choice

join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos

and the grandmasters

grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been

of cake. The

was terrifying.

the ground, and

that moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her

the air, attempting to

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

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

the tight bun at the back of

spread through her limbs like warm

she

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

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

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

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

Jonathan slipped a hand into the miniature pocket of his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he

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

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

the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she sought

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

still did not understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult clothing, yet he trusted

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

sweeping the garments from velvet hangers into

watched, envy shining

this large could cover the down payment on a

more.

was buying,

guided

barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one

over eight million." s

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

firm as

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

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

Thank you for choosing us." Ivy presented the card with both hands, as though returning a

courtesy. "Ms. Ivy, I truly

finally set

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

"Pass it on to whatever gentleman keeps you

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

apairof

who 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

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

them like silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and

enough to reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did

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

privacy of his own mind. Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best friend would never

Ms.

curled inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for

mood darkened like a sky before

reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually

first fib, it was only

Jonathan appeared more like

Cecelia? She would never delegate adult

"You've figured something out,

blinked,

it comes to social-grade lying, you're still rough

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

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

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

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

snapped shut.Am I showing it

where did you pick

Jon shrugged as if stating

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

stayed shut far too long. Taking Elliot

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

almost collided

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

two been? And

stepped forward, intent on inspecting the loot, but

smoothly.

clumsy, so Nathaniel

nice. I was

Jonathan gaped, utterly bewildered. When have

throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding

the constipation

guess I've been skimping on water lately,"

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

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

him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch of discomfort

his cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly as a

merely confessed the problem, never imagining the confession

had been ages since Cecilia had hugged

really. I'll be fine if I drink more

the model child,

shook her head, unwilling to yield. "That won't do. Maybe we should buy

gravity, the way surgeons

Of all lies you could

whispered, the words nearly

for the boy and a glimmer of amused

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

courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the small box

you're not sure how to use them,

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

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

Mommy. I can

hair, every gesture

So young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache of

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

"Okay."

box like contraband and bolted

plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why,

sure doesn't look it," Elliot muttered

him with a mild but warning stare.

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

exaggerated burst of cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on," she

you have to take tons of super-cool photos

the new clothes in bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and

the little photoshoot ended,

polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw

life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug, photos of uneaten cookies, and funny

return, video-called often to check on the

life seemed to find

to come back for a visit?"

so her priorities were

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

will prepare every one of

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

final outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot

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

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

"Ceci."

surprise. "What is

we're doing today?" His question

follow. What do you

clouded Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing," he

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

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

scent of cedar from his freshly pressed shirt drawing her

she could speak

arms swept out

swift, possessive

chest, as though staking a claim no one could

really have

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

over her cheek. Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened as she tried to twist free,

let me go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees

only tightened his embrace, chin settling atop her hair as if

about two married people holding each other? They're

she muttered, "Not babies?

overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low, laced with a

arched, genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left the country that

"Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for

"They're too little, Nathaniel. Besides, Elliot's just regained his health, and

།

Jonathan,

of his finger brushing

"Hmm?"

fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives. Sometimes

composed husband was jealous of his

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

darkened, a storm

down the hallway, bare

it, then sprang up

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

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

match for his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside,

latch clicked, the deadbolt turned, and darkness

hissed against the windows, but inside, heat pooled between

of white light, snow glare slicing through the curtains

eyes to find Nathaniel's face less than an

trace a finger over that faint roughness,

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open, hazy

he murmured, drawing her even closer until

can't breathe.” Her voice came

loosened his hold by a fraction, closed his eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just a little longer." "It's already nine. We really

best friends a

his arms and mumbled, "Give me a few

now did Cecilia realize how clingy he could be, warmth

were you this attached? I never noticed

mouth. "I was younger. Didn't know

and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing up beneath

busy day ahead," she

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

her head. "That's it.

are you buying?” he asked, still unwilling

for Mom, and

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

"Nope."

head. He had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet

pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat.

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

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

through quiet hallways, and stepped onto

1.

and Elliot off to

being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice

that only a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had

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

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

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

was Alex-the outcast,

liked the girl. But seeing Sofina

this one

"You're cowards! Every last one of you! From this moment on, Sofina will handle the Eden Group

The room fell silent.

Grandma," she said. "I'll

a

Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag the rest

She's fighting to lift this

half-slave here, Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle worker? That

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

you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just

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

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

snapped. "You're a fool if you think

sound that filled the room. "Then let's make this interesting. What

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

heard the Baroness gave you that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is ours foever. You move into

grin twitched, "Deal," she said through clenched teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want both of you out of

said, leaning back with a half-smile.

me in too! If

on her, raising a brow. "Alright.

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

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

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

you lose, I want you

if I win, you'll accept our

this? I've already recorded the bet and sent the document to

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

She couldn't care less about their childish

her was one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could actually secure

three days to negotiate

out the window. "You really think Grandma trusts me

"Trust?

shot him a look. "That's supposed

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

bet on your victory. Isn't that

arched a brow. "You really think

show who's got guts and who's got

her arms. "And what if

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

thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind was

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

watching the reflections glide across the car's polished hood, “we should return this car. It's too extravagant for us. Everyone's going to

one hand casually resting on the wheel. "Maybe it's

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

can."

frowned, glancing at him. "You really think this

away from the road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll have a new mansion to park it

anxious, half amused.

me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you miss, you'll land

smile softened as the car descended toward the Eden Group's towering headquarters, its glass walls gleaming in the

me luck," Sofina whispered as

open her door. "With me here, your luck's already doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the

QUMS

moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could

something empty out

sky like a polished god. The idea that

partner with them was like a beggar asking a banker to

She'd accepted the challenge in front of the whole

slowed her pace. The lobby felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester:

quiet conversations, their voices low but tense, each waiting for

Group. The

all every one

of them was hono

thing: a coffaboration

on earth are you doing

standing with Katarina

lips tightened the way a

sentence.

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

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

Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided

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

me the

clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging her down the

straightened his collar, pulled on his gloves, and

gathering a

he said quietly, helping her pick them up. "What

shook her head, frustrated. "It's Heinrich. No matter what I

asked, gently lifting her chin, checking for

nothing serious," she

you don't need to print everything.

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

chest. "The same way I

chuckled. "You

looked at me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel

teased each other as they walked back through

a voice cracked the

you doing here? I told

color drained from her

chain that still

overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if waiting for his approval... or his

stepped forward, placing himself between Sofina

Group," Alex said. "You're a guest. You

expect to be treated like a king. Where's your

You're not a king- you're just another arrogant fool. A pathetic worm in

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

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

and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden

a derisive snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and

tone tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you, tell me their name and I'll see

man. Your gardener. He insulted me and tried

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

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

"You seem to forget your

fire you anytime I want. Now, you've

Kneel and

I? He's the one who tried to throw out another guest, and

Dietrich snapped. "Do you have any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one of the brightest minds in Winchester-soon

if he's not joining?" Alex

respect. You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I make

shaking

fired if you

Just kneel and bow three times, and

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

started to gather, drawn by the

up to Heinrich? The man really doesn't know

"That gardener's got a name. You

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing off.

and turned

my attention,

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

and I might

tightened around Alex's arm,

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

have the whole

be nothing outcasts.

s

Sofina grabbed him tighter and shook

steady.

her face. She met his eyes.

Sofina stepped forward alone.Chapter

hit me,

curse.

name do you

you strike Mister Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot

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

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

a

forward until he stood toe-to-toe with Dietrich. "You'd better cancel

"The one who'll get hurt

bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish this

head. "I

began

hit

Heinrich's the man

another voice

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

to

nobody in the room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina had

Alex had wired her into his network

and every linked node. Any device that touched Sofina reported to Eve first-she was Sofina's guardian

the previous command. Secure Dietrich and

robot optical sensors swung toward

it into Dietrich's chest. The shock

security robot drew an electric whip from a holster and

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

alarm. "Is the Eden

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

confusion

robot didn't stop until Dietrich had taken

feet and kicked him out, shoving him past the

struggling to catch up with the chaos unraveling around

the blood away with the back of his wrist, his face twisting with

voice low and venomous. "I'll teach

his hand swinging

the first time. Heinrich had struck Sofina

weak, but because she'd

seized his arm. "Find someone your own

go of me!"

lid. The government cameras watched from every

his grip until Heinrich screamed like an animal, pain folding him

a hand that

me go!" Heinrich gasped,

out of the Eden Group meeting room like a storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the marble floor with sharp precision, aides trailing behind her in nervous

-

a bid to replace the Krugers, who'd been

favor, to become the next family

were desperater

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

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

Heinrich down,

went white with fury. She stormed over and slapped

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

released Heinrich's arm. "Calling the police won't

that true?" Katarina asked

Sofina. She hit my

You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing someone

real power. The

an immigrant struck a noble, the punishment could be

More often than

law protected rank,

most people just accepted it. That was the

power

her sharp eyes to

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

"No. I won't divorce her. Go ahead and marry

don't have to be

at this for you and for your Sant Claire family. When im done with Heinrich, if you behave yourself, I'll let you marry me

his face. "Do you

to you? That everyone

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

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

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

discovered something she wouldn't

him.

despised him now, 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

everything was cold

He didn't want to face Katarina—not here,

to put distance between them, but before he could take another step, her hand shot out and clamped

staring at him, fierce and

to stop, Alex," Katarina said, every word

temper." She stepped closer. "Remember when I made you kneel in the rain for three days and nights? You think I

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

and her hand whipped across his face. The slap cracked through the hall like a