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.

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

The Netherworld Sect wasn't far from Knott Estate. With the speed of carrier pigeons and their giant birds that people could ride, they should have arrived within an hour.

Yet, two hours had passed, and still no sign of them.

"It seems your mentor won't be coming," Sebastian remarked.

Fear filled Heather's eyes. "Sebastian, you can't kill me. I'm the Netherworld Sect's once-in-a-millennium genius apprentice. If you kill me, the Sect will never let you go."

Sebastian responded calmly, "If I were afraid, I wouldn't have let you call for help, nor would I be standing here waiting.

"If the Netherworld Sect doesn't come after me, fine. But if they do, I'll just wipe them out."

powerful sect as casually as if he were talking

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

they would have dismissed

just witnessed him severely injured Martin in a single move-it was

you have any last words before you die?"

fell to her knees before Sebastian. "Sebastian, please don't kill me. For

die."

let out a cold chuckle. "You still dare to mention our one night together? You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence,

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

Let's set the fact that you harmed me aside for

her beaten severely, and even tried to humiliate my wife. Such

my doing! It was

nothing to do with me," Heather quickly tried

When it all happened, Heather was at the Netherworld Sect. She didn't know anything

to die, but I don't believe he acted alone. If it wasn't her, then it must've been you." Sebastian

intent.

belongs to s

wave of fear, Martin quickly denied, "It wasn't me! I had nothing to do

Sebastian scoffed. "Well, it's definitely either one of you. So, you can choose who will

us against each other? How

that forcing them

simply killing them

survivor would live with the

you one minute to decide. IfChapter

Heather's eyes were full of fear and

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

go, and just name your

I'll give you a chance. I want

million gold coins? Why don't you just rob a bank?" Martin nearly

for someone to live comfortably for a lifetime. One million gold coins was a huge sum even

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

his teeth, feeling as if his heart was

the large amount of gold, Sebastian only asked

Sebastian ten

and left

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

Hendrick to the

like to ask you for a

need to be

Sebastian had grown even deeper. Sebastian not only healed his wounds, which saved his life, but also helped him break through his cultivation

a debt that Hendrick

with immeasurable strength to boot. Such a person was worth

requested paper and a pen, then drew

artist, his drawing was

Wilder, is the woman in

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

was hard not to admire a man as exceptional

confident in herself, but

the drawing

her own

circumstances

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

stayed at the chamber,

to arrange for some people to take care

Brork to

witnessed Sebastian's terrifying power first hand, Brork didn't

word of refusal. He was completely subdued, with no thoughts of

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

can't swallow this humiliation!"

and asked, "Are you willing to marry

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

the Stonebrook family to deal with that little bastard!"

father and daughter then stepped

large

the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses of

man of about 26 years old. Though his appearance was average, he had an impressive

truly graces our humble Knott Estate," Martin said with

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

come in." Martin led the

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

slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left

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

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

him a bashful smile. She was not angry

was one of the southern region's four major families. If Heather could become the young

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

might even secure a place among

Denzel smiled a

said, "My

Knott once not long ago,

first sight for

he lost his

his appetite and many.

I became anxious,

Cóntent

speaking, he clapped his hands, and the

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

pill box, though smaller, contained

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

to admit, the Stonebrook family had truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880

their rarity, even internal consumption was not enough, making them extremely scarce in the market. When Martin

Pills could cleanse the body, improve physical constitution,

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

you satisfied with the Stonebrook family's betrothal

very satisfied. Extremely satisfied,

agree to their

to be interested in

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

wedding date, setting it for a year later. Martin

strength is

there aren't many people who could cause trouble

scoundrel named Sebastian

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 he is,

call off the engagement,

light crossed Camden's eyes. "I heard about this incident too, but

I don't mind. It wasn't your

Heather forced out a

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

herself, she hoped to handle the

I agreed to marry him. But what I never expected was that the

he

him. He then tried to force himself

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

Even my father couldn't

be under 30 years old. How could he be stronger

There are also herbs and

like he's in his 20s, but his

in agreement. "That's right. That brat's cultivation is at least at the

age is definitely

"Isn't he just an

Camden's

family, one of the four major families of the southern region, Camden would typically

Holton's Knott Estate, it was still far from matching the prestige

that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the

remarkable. The Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same

boundless potential

talent compensated for her

jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the Stonebrook family's daughter-in-law was like

who secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with

Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't want her even

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

of the cultivation

now to boost the cultivation of those around him once he got

an exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One day, after finishing

getting engaged tomorrow at Knott

is for me, I

"Yes,

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

Wilder, are you

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

both hate you to the core and their invitation is definitely not sincere it's clear they want to use the Stonebrook

father is right. You mustn't go.

right into

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

Stonebrook family has many powerful figures. If you go you're bound to be at

Hendrick warned.

to .net

remained unmoved. "I appreciate your

clowns. They're

If they dare provoke me, I'll

ie

one of the four major families in the southern region, even stronger than the Netherworld Sect. They shouldn't

"Mr. Wilder, please listen to us

things can't be avoided. If they're out for revenge, they'll cook up something

them

his group approached the entrance of Knott Estate,

veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was Kaitlyn, the distinguished lady of

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

Sebastian nodded.

at the

just to tell me

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

expect you to care so much about me.

scoffed and turned

Gardner says so,

always hope as long as you're alive. With your talent, you're destined to become a peerless force in

made up. No more advice, please,"

was marching to his doom. All they could probably do now was retrieve his

Knott Estate, the atmosphere was

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

end of today, she would

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

and touched by Sebastian So the only way to

Sebastian.

keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and his subordinate

moment, "Mr.

exits once he enters. Make sure

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

satisfaction. "By the way,

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

again in

moment, Sebastian and his

doing here?" Korbin exclaimed

family's plan,

you bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I can't decide

isn't exactly a dragon's lair. Why wouldn't I dare to

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

a mocking smile. "Brat, today next

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

"You invited me to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet,

invited you here just to kill you.

such an idiot. He thinks that just because he came to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden would let him go. He must

He ruined Ms. Knott's reputation. Mr. Camden would never let him live. I can't tell if this

Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about

looked at Camden and said, "Today is your engagement party. Killing someone might

want to live today, the only way is to do

and his smile was

are you laughing at,

said, "Mr. Camden, I really don't get it. There are so many good women out there. Why on earth did you choose someone as despicable as Heather

insult my woman? You've

This guy

to live. But insulting Ms. Knott?

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking

been practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

energy to enhance

One day,

me into her room, and

"Shut up!"

interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop

"Mr. Camden, he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You can't believe a

don't believe him. This guy has

you have?" Camden

saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique

he's lying! He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with

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

resist and ended up sleeping with her. But what I didn't expect was that she was using an evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me off

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

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

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

in, "Camden, this guy has ulterior motives.

uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his

coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or not,

to verify everything as soon as

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

aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate.

While they were also divine grandmasters,

Septimus was a middle-stage

you had some

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

marks on her chest because I

froze at his words and instinctively covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed by now, given

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing

tricked, Heather was

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

wasn't a fool, and he was infuriated by

families of the southern region, with all their

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power was

his released aura alone made it

and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could do; they were

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

a resounding sound, Septimus'

Septimus let out a pained scream and staggered back in

him down and grabbed Septimus

"What?"

erupted into chaos. Everyone was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated in a single move

was beyond

Not long ago, Sebastian had participated in the

a warrior. After all, if he were

really underestimated you.

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

Sebastian, his eyes

stepped forward. "Mr. Camden, can you do me a favor?

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

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

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

gouges out his own eyes, and breaks both

Camden, isn't gouging out his eyes and

This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in

whispered, "Didn't I warn you?

place isn't some death trap. Why

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

Stonebrook family

out your eyes and breaking your hands is the best outcome I could

smiled lightly and replied, "Ms. Gardner,

in the habit of

it's hard

miserably than to die.

but in the

a fate worse than death. Rather than living

slim, at least Sebastian could die

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook family erupted

was seething with rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how

won't be satisfied until I torture you for

his cultivation

order. He was already walking toward Sebastian,

presence intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on the

truly unfathomable. He's

that Trey has the ability to fight beyond his

Sebastian's cultivation is? He struck so quickly before; this is

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted,

it

resonated through the air,

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

the Godslayer Blade

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, their combat

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

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

nodded in agreement. The Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could

here was Sebastian,

closed her eyes, unable to bear watching

man who had taken her virginity, but after calming down and reflecting, her hatred

be Sebastian.

bit more, she even started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always

come to realize that Sebastian's strength far

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

middle pinnacle stage of divine grandmaster Trey wielded the Godslayer Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It seemed as though it would split the earth

energy within a few miles surged violently,

cultivation slumped

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

Sebastian

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

palm. However, instead of the expected sight of blood and mangled flesh, the sword

"How is this possible?"

was equally stunned as they were unable to believe what

my god! He caught the Godslayer Blade with his bare hand! This is

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

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

he was jolted by

while nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not bad. From

of anger and

Sebastian. "You actually

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

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

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

a pair of idiots. You two really

the idiot! Your whole

still dare to shout

to kill us?" Heather

me, our family will never let you go. Not just you, but everyone you

person. If you send two, I'll kill both of them. If you send a whole army,

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

No one could believe how brazen Sebastian was,

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

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

Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you

chuckled coldly. "Whether or not I end up in a grave, you won't be around to see

dare!"

all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as they

with disdain. He took a step forward, releasing

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

remain standing, their

him!" Camden

had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting their teeth, they rushed

didn't join the fray. Instead,

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 even hit the ground, they

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

cake. The

was terrifying.

the ground, and her face became pale with

Heather. He grabbed her by

air, attempting to

took in the way little Jonathan stepped forward to shield the nervous

his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through

absolutely," Elodie blurted, nodding so hard the tight bun at the back of her

away did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her

ago, her fate had dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful

hadn't stepped between danger and the child, the day would have ended in chaos or

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

smile-courteous, almost

Ivy, I should be the one thanking you,"

miniature pocket of his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding

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

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

the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she

required his guardian's

still did not understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of

"Of course," she said, nearly breathless

garments from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags with practiced

other employees watched, envy shining through their fixed

commission this large could cover the down payment on a new car,

more.

was buying,

Ivy guided

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

over eight million." s

Ivy would never have taken a job at

firm as bedrock.

flicked to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she finally

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

for choosing us." Ivy presented the

"Ms. Ivy, I truly

set

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

"Pass it on to whatever gentleman keeps you

her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders.

apairof

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

Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast briefing about the ruckus that

two bodyguards trailed them like silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp

wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh, and

out a few outfits for

hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best

once, expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy certainly

inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy

like a sky before

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

it was only because

Jonathan appeared more like

would never delegate adult shopping to

figured something out, haven't

blinked, performing innocent

it comes

so fast, and the realization sent a tremor

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

forced a civil smile. "Why

you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally direct in the

snapped shut.Am I

his throat. “And exactly where did

Dad.” Jon shrugged

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

uneasy when the restroom door stayed shut far too long.

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

she almost collided with Jonathan

them, arms loaded with shopping bags

And what on

on inspecting the loot,

said smoothly. "Holiday

so Nathaniel was patching

well, a heads-up would have been nice. I was starting to wonder why you'd vanished."Chapter

When have I

his throat and shot Jonathan

carrying the

guess I've been skimping on water

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

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

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

without warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks

imagining the confession would buy

Cecilia had hugged him

drink more water. It isn't that

model child, obedient,

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

said it with earnest gravity, the way

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

but honestly, Mommy, I don't need them,” he whispered, the words nearly swallowed by the flush covering

soft with pity for the boy and a

and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's worth of gentle

the time they reached home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the small box into Jonathan's

you're not sure how to

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

on earth would he let Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his head so

Mommy. I can manage on

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

to endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If it lasted, a doctor's

to the bathroom with you," she said, voice low and gentle,

"Okay."

contraband and bolted

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

constipated? He sure doesn't

seated beside him, fixed him with a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease your brother. He's having a hard enough time

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

of cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on," she said, "let's try the outfits we just bought today, shall

take tons of super-cool

cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to

the little photoshoot ended, she pinged the

Queenie's departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw

she sent them daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the boys

often to

life seemed

the children be able to come back

her priorities

have decided. We'll come right after the New Year to visit you and

every one of your favorite dishes," Bethany replied, her

Bethany for a good while longer,

change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their beds,

rare hush, holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered

intent on stealing five minutes of calm

"Ceci."

jerked in surprise. "What is

this all we're doing today?" His

you mean?" Confusion

Nathaniel's eyes.

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

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

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

could

long arms swept

swift, possessive motion,

though staking a claim no

have to

came out rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every

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

let me go! If Elliot

settling atop her hair as

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

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

on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low,

arched, genuine amazement slipping past her

for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time

Besides, Elliot's just regained his health,

།

watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let him stay

of his finger brushing her burning

"Hmm?"

you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and

composed husband was

course, the kids outrank you. I risked my life to bring them into

a storm gathering behind

twisted free of Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the

it, then sprang up and covered the distance in

as Cecilia reached the bedroom and tried to swing the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice low and

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

was no match for his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her up again, and kicked the door

clicked, the deadbolt turned,

wind hissed against the windows, but inside, heat pooled between

snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting the room in chilled

eyes to find Nathaniel's face less than an inch away. She could count the fine stubble dusting his

over that faint roughness, then lower to the soft curve

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open, hazy with

drawing her even closer until her breath mingled

can't breathe.” Her voice came

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

best friends a full

mumbled, "Give me

how clingy he could be, warmth and weight

were you this

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

ruffled his hair, dark strands springing up beneath her

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

her hand again. "Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends, that's all, right? No

her head. "That's

he asked, still unwilling to release

New clothes for Mom, and something

His tone carried a note of suspicion wrapped in playful

"Nope."

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

heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose,

misread the cause. He just hates it when I leave too quickly. With that familiar

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

quiet hallways,

1.

had spirited Jon and Elliot

that crap because you're an idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had

only a complete fool like Alex could think the

he called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with half a

face went pale, then burned red. He spun toward the Baroness.

and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad

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

Sofina. She'd never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve,

least this

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

The room fell silent.

worry, Grandma," she said. "I'll

a smug

exhaled sharply through her nose, lips curling into a sneer. "Go on, Sofina -try all you want.

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

embarrassment of this family! You

Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's dream—and

not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking your own grandmother's got

what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal, that's all! I'm being

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

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

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

You think I'm scared? Name your terms,

eyes gleamed. "I heard the Baroness gave you that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina pulls

clenched teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want both of you out of the Wolfsbane

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

chimed in, "Count me in too! If

turned his gaze on her, raising a

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

about this—if you lose, you kneel ten

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

too," Felicia said. "If you lose, I want you to

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

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

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

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

Wolfsbane family could actually secure that

you have three days to negotiate

window. "You really think Grandma trusts me with

"Trust? No. Desperation?

him a look. "That's supposed

chuckled. "If you want comfort, talk to someone

least I bet

"You really think this bet will

said. "It'll show who's

crossed her arms. "And what if you

I'll finally fit right in

spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were

the sleek black luxury car they'd won from Nikolaus-a machine so rare in Winchester that it turned heads

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

"Maybe it's too fancy for a gardener like me," he

of the Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother and

can."

glancing at him. "You really think this

okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this

half anxious, half amused. "I wish I had

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

toward the Eden Group's

me luck," Sofina whispered as the car

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

QUMS

nerves eased. She wished she could

and felt something empty out inside her-like a room with the furniture

rose into the sky like a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane

like a beggar asking a banker to lend

her grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front of the whole

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

low but tense, each waiting for their turn to

The sight

all every one

of them was hono

a coffaboration with

you doing

and found Heinrich standing

lips tightened the way a judge's did before

sentence.

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

his tone thick with mockery. "You? Who the hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't

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

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

me the footage," Alex

clamped around Sofina's arm,

collar, pulled on his gloves, and

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

her pick them up. "What

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

gently lifting her chin, checking for

serious,"

don't need to print everything. The digital

I like the feel

his chest. "The same way I like

"You

you looked at me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes I think it'd

each other as they walked back through the

voice cracked

told

color drained from her

that still tied her

eyes flickering, as if waiting

stepped forward, placing himself between

Group," Alex said. "You're a guest. You have no

here-l expect to be treated like a king. Where's

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

I am? I'm Heinrich Schiller." Heinrich's face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should

brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a

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

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

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

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

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

as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt officially registered, the security androids

seem to forget your place. I'm Dietrich Wedell,

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

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and beg

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

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

if he's not joining?"

your respect. You're nothing compared

calmly, shaking his head. "I

fired if

Alex. We've known each other a long time. Just kneel and

this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three kowtows, then

to gather, drawn by the rising

at that," someone jeered. "A gardener trying to stand up to

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

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

smirked and

for my attention, haven't you?

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

bows, and I

tightened around Alex's arm,

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

have the

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

s

but Sofina grabbed him tighter and shook

but steady. "Let me handle

She met his eyes. "Trust

Sofina stepped forward

a boil. "You hit

curse.

God's name do you think

dare you strike Mister Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her, give her twenty lashes,

with a hand

Twenty lashes. She won't be

said, every syllable a command. "Give her

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

one who'll get hurt

"Security

tilted his head. "I warned

began

she hit Heinrich," someone

you know Heinrich's the

her!" another

ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses swept over Sofina, cold and

flagged a threat to her, an alert raced

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

a home machine. Alex had wired her into his network

Any device that touched Sofina

network. "Override the previous

security robot optical sensors

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

security robot drew an electric whip from a holster and began

dark lines of blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut

from triumph to alarm. "Is the Eden security unit malfunctioning?" someone

the most advanced," someone muttered, half in

ripple of confusion

stop until Dietrich had taken twenty

to his feet and kicked him out, shoving

her mind struggling to catch up with the chaos unraveling

staggered upright, one hand clutching his bleeding nose. He wiped the blood away with the back of his

he hissed, voice low and venomous. "I'll

her, his hand swinging

the first time. Heinrich had

it, not because she was weak, but because she'd once mistaken her

and seized his arm. "Find

let go of me!" Heinrich

lid. The government cameras watched from every

until Heinrich screamed like an animal,

knees, clutching at a hand that felt as if

me go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on his cheeks as

storm breaking loose. Her heels struck

-

Rosenheim family had just finished presenting their offer - a bid to replace the Krugers, who'd

the

were

Eden that Heinrich would

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

down, and Heinrich bled and

stormed over and slapped Alex

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

her eyes and released Heinrich's arm. "Calling the police won't help

true?"

hit my nose."

"So what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing

Prussia, nobles still carried real power. The law bent for

noble, the punishment could

and swift. More often than

law protected rank, not

people just accepted it.

Prussia — power didn't need to

sharp eyes to

make me jealous, to get my attention. Well, you've got it. I think that's enough.

divorce her.

have

your Sant Claire family. When im done with

hardening his face. "Do you really

you? That everyone just spins around

I'm even willing to marry you. How dare you disobey me! I command

of

you walk away from me!" Katarina shouted. "Kneel! Now!" Katarina's voice cracked with fury

discovered something she wouldn't admit —

him.

still haunted her - the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her

was cold

been dreading this moment. He didn't want to face Katarina—not

turned, trying to put distance between them, but before he could take another step, her hand shot out and clamped around his wrist

at him, fierce and cold, while his other arm still held

you to stop, Alex," Katarina said, every

I lose my temper." She stepped closer. "Remember when I made you kneel in the rain for three days and nights? You think I won't do it

Alex said, his voice low and hard as steel. "You're not my wife anymore. I don't owe

life," Katarina hissed, and her hand whipped across his face. The slap

flash of tears she fought to hide, gripping him with

command you

bitch!"

eyes were quiet, but they

it in one swift move and snapped

of my husband," Sofina ordered. "You're his ex- don't touch him again. He isn't yours.

had been treated like royalty, and she'd made

heard the

title was

they earned their barony by stabbing their

built on treachery, that beneath their silks and titles they were nothing more than well-fed

fury. "She's spitting on my family name! Slap

who bent to Katarina's will and some Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to

robot glided between them, its mechanical voice cutting through the

on Eden Group property," it

pair of tasers snapped out. Electricity flashed. The would-be attackers jerked, their muscles seized, and they dropped hard to the floor, wracked by

violence," the security unit repeated. "Please remain

for the moment, of

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.