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."

casually as if he were talking about slaughtering a

strong did one have to be to have

would have dismissed

just witnessed him severely injured

do you have any last words before you

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

die."

You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then tossed me off a cliff ff thadn't been lucky, I wouldn't be

was

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

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

It was Sean acting

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

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

her, then it must've been you." Sebastian turned his gaze te Martin, his eyes

intent.

belongs to s

Martin quickly denied, "It wasn't

definitely either one of you. So, you can choose

us against each

onlookers silently agreed, thinking that forcing them to

than simply

all, the survivor would live with the guilt

I'm giving you one minute to decide. IfChapter

eyes were full of fear

didn't want to die, but he

negotiate. Let us go, and just name

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

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

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

can just kill your daughter,

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

the large amount of gold, Sebastian only asked for

long after, Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100 thousand

kept his word and left after receiving

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

Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton

like to ask you for

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

healed his wounds, which saved his life, but also helped him break through his cultivation

that Hendrick considered a second

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

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

a professional artist, his drawing was

the woman in

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

eyes. It was hard not to admire a man

but after seeing the portrait,

the

her own

circumstances and timing of Fressia's

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

at the chamber, waiting for updates. He also

some people to take care of

assigned Brork to

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

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

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter

and asked, "Are you willing to marry

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

the Stonebrook family to deal with

and daughter then stepped out to

Stonebrook family had arrived in large numbers, bringing an

man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses of the southern

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

truly graces our humble Knott Estate," Martin said with

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

our honor. Please, come in." Martin led the

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

the more reserved she acted, the more

to keep

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

smile. She was not angry at all. In

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

by leaps and

might even secure a place among the

Denzel smiled a

"My son

Knott once not long

love at first sight for

lost his

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

he clapped his hands, and the

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

though smaller,

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

gone all out. The gold coins

to their rarity, even internal consumption was not enough, making them extremely scarce in the market. When Martin and Heather heard about the

improve physical constitution, extend

these pills significantly improved their constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even

said proudly, "Mr. Knott, are you satisfied

very satisfied. Extremely satisfied,

that mean you agree to their marriage?" Denzel

to be interested in my daughter is

inside. With the future title of daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family, who

setting it for a year later. Martin then

we've recently provoked someone whose strength is formidable and

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

"It's a scoundrel named

commoner.

consulting many renowned doctors, none could

powerless and

mind, we can call off the engagement, Mr.

eyes. "I heard about

don't mind. It wasn't your

understanding," Heather forced out

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

it up herself, she hoped to handle the situation

what I never expected

we got engaged, he demanded

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

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

very strong. Even my

"I heard he should be under 30 years

added, "As cultivators improve their skills, their lifespans increase. There are

may look like he's in his 20s,

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

age is

scoffed. "Isn't he just an early-stage divine

Heather and Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

major families of the southern region, Camden would typically

of Holton's Knott Estate, it was still

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

importantly, her talents were remarkable. The Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level as Kaitlyn and the Netherworld Sect's

was a genius with boundless potential and unimaginable future

beauty and talent compensated for

envious and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the Stonebrook family's daughter-in-law was like ascending to the heavens in a single

admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their hopes seemingly

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

Martin, Sebastian invested in

of the cultivation

now to boost the cultivation of

Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One day, after

and Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've sent over

them is for me, I

"Yes,

intentions-it was nothing more than an attempt to use the

"Mr. Wilder, are

so if I don't go, wouldn't I

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

"My father is right. You

right

bunch of petty clowns.

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

"I appreciate your concern, but those people

just clowns. They're not

they leave me alone, fine. If they dare provoke me, I'll destroy

ie

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

added, "Mr. Wilder, please listen to

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

to confront them sooner rather

the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman suddenly blocked

partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was

me?" Sebastian asked.

Sebastian nodded.

you at the banquet. Going there now is like walking into a trap," Kaitlyn

just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked

into you and thought I'd give you a

me. Could it be that you've

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed and

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

talent, you're destined to become a peerless force in the future. Just bide

up. No more advice,

to his doom. All

Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled

local powerhouse, the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to

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

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

had already been seen and touched

Sebastian.

keeping tabs on

just at that moment, "Mr.

all the exits once he enters. Make sure he doesn't

place. He won't be able to get

satisfaction. "By the

make it today. But with the family's third elder and the seventh

again

moment, Sebastian and his companions entered

doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he spotted

was also taken aback. She had already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's

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

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

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

today next year will be your death

you a chance. If you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge

to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate you,

Camden sneered. "I invited you

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

live. I can't tell if

and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done to her,

engagement party. Killing someone

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

and his smile was full of

grew furious. "What are you

many good women out there. Why on earth did you choose someone as despicable as Heather

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

it. This guy

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

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

practicing

cultivation technique, one that

energy to enhance

day,

into her room, and tried to seduce

"Shut up!"

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

on purpose. You can't believe a word he

course, I don't believe him. This guy has slandered my woman-this is unforgivable!Chapter

do you

you let me finish what I was saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique

turned to Camden and said, "Camden, he's lying! He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with him, so he's trying to slander me.

No matter what

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

right in front of me...

me. If you don't believe me, you can have her checked. If I'm lying, you can do with me as you wish,"

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

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

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

and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian

Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as soon as the engagement

felt as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it hard for everyone

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

Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they were also divine grandmasters,

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

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

Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep talking. Heather is nothing more than a worn-out shoe I've

scratch marks on her

instinctively covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing she

Heather was

swear I'll cut out your tongue and feed it to the

a fool, and he was infuriated

of the southern

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster.

the pressure from his released

of concern, 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

resounding sound, Septimus'

Septimus let out a pained scream and

him down

"What?"

middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated in

was beyond

Not long ago,

person, perhaps at most a warrior. After all,

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

Stonebrook family! If you dare to kill him, you won't even

approached Sebastian, his eyes

you do me a favor? I'll have him

Although her face was hidden, she had an undeniable allure that piqued his

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

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

and breaks both his

his eyes and breaking

myself rather kind for offering this. This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone that left no

whispered, "Didn't I warn

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

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

Stonebrook family

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

"Ms. Gardner, I

not in the habit

know it's hard to accept,

than to

say something, but in the end, she only gave

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

were slim, at least Sebastian

"Septimus!"

of the Stonebrook family erupted

he shouted, "Sebastian

I won't be satisfied until I

cripple his

Camden's order. He was already walking toward Sebastian,

footfall left a

be truly unfathomable. He's probably at

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

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

shouted, tossing a long sword to

sword and immediately drew it from

air, unleashing a

as though

the Godslayer

world with this sword, and with it, they rarely met an equal. As long as one

They hadn't expected Camden to carry the Godslayer Blade

the added power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand

artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that

Sebastian,

her eyes, unable

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

old scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted

was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was in

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

The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her entire Netherworld

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 in

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

weaker cultivation slumped to the ground while

to capture Sebastian alive, so his sword's target

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

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

the expected sight of blood and mangled flesh, the sword stopped dead in its tracks as

"How is this possible?"

with shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as they were unable

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

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

a slight exertion of his

he was

in satisfaction. "This sword is not bad. From now on,

a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a punch at Sebastian.Chapter

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

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

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

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 the Southern Regions, so killing

a pair of idiots. You two really are made

the idiot! Your whole family is!"

to die, yet you still dare to shout at me. If

kill

family

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

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

one could believe how brazen Sebastian was,

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

of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over a thousand years, with countless divine grandmasters and

and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we

end up in a grave, you won't be around to see

you dare!"

all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as they were ready to flee at

him with disdain. He took a step forward,

everyone present. Those below

the grandmasters struggled to remain standing, their

him!" Camden commanded

were filled with terror, they had

didn't join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos

of his hand, a tremendous energy burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out

grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a single move To

cake. The sheer

was terrifying.

the ground, and her

toward Heather. He grabbed

leapt into the air, attempting to

nervous clerk and decided to let the matter

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

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

finally breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like warm water,

ago, her fate had dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she

and the child, the day would

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

almost grown-up, impossibly composed

thanking you," he replied, voice clear as

blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding

clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened,

Ivy had chosen started at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended

around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she sought

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

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

course," she said, nearly breathless with

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

watched, envy shining through their fixed

this large could cover the down

more.

everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal Ivy's triumph, not even

Ivy guided Nathaniel

down, voice barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of

over eight million." s

would never have taken a job

firm as bedrock.

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

at the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy, it seemed,

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

Ivy, I truly appreciate

clerk finally set the

a flourish worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a

"Pass it on to whatever gentleman keeps you company."

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

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

Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast briefing about the ruckus

with crisp shirts, tailored

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

and pick out a few outfits

mind. Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best friend

once, expression unreadable. "Your Ms.

his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci never thinks of

like a sky before

reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked

the first fib, it was only

more like an adult

Cecelia? She would never delegate adult

gaze sharpened. "You've figured something out,

blinked, performing

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

to be exposed so fast, and the realization sent a

“Are you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his

shoulders back and forced a civil smile. "Why would I

but none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally direct

opened, then snapped shut.Am I

throat. “And exactly where

face, Dad.” Jon

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

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

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

the corridor, she almost collided

them, arms loaded with shopping bags bulging with

been? And what on earth

on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel

said smoothly. "Holiday

so Nathaniel was patching the

been nice. I was starting

Jonathan gaped, utterly bewildered. When have I

and shot Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding flashed

to carrying the constipation story on his

skimping on water

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

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

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

rush to his cheeks until his whole

never imagining the confession would buy him

ages since Cecilia had hugged him

drink more water. It

been the model child, obedient, courteous, eager to

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

said it with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce

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

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

the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess he

her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's worth of gentle

like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the small box

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

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

this particular battlefield. He shook his head so

can manage on

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

to endure the stubborn ache of

said, voice low

"Okay."

the box like contraband and bolted down

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

sure doesn't look it," Elliot muttered

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

small hand against his chest, trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of pitiful," he breathed, each syllable

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

you have to take tons

arms gathering the new clothes in bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to

little photoshoot ended,

smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the sorrow hovering

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

often to check

seemed to find

you and the children be able to come back for a visit?" Bethany asked, voice

the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side of the

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

soon as you can. Your grandpa and I will prepare every one of your favorite dishes," Bethany

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

Elliot

fell into a rare hush, holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel

couch, eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five

"Ceci."

in surprise. "What

we're doing today?"

follow. What do you mean?" Confusion knitted

clouded Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing," he

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

earlier cheer. "What's the matter?

step closer, the scent of cedar from his freshly pressed shirt drawing her

she could

long arms

possessive motion,

his chest, as though staking a claim no

have to

rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every syllable

breath fanned 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

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

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

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

Nathaniel

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

shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for

Besides, Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps Old Mr. Sinclair company

།

watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let

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

"Hmm?"

to be apart from the kids, yet you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for

it click. Her proud, composed husband was jealous

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

a storm gathering behind the calm

and bolted down the

would dare make a break for it, then sprang up

shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the

plenty of spare rooms

his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her up again, and kicked the

turned, and darkness enveloped the

wind hissed against the windows, but inside, heat pooled

came in a burst of white light, 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

over that faint roughness, then lower to

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open, hazy with

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

came out in a whisper,

eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just

promised her best friends a full day

arms and mumbled, "Give

clingy he could be, warmth and weight

when were you this

his mouth. "I

dark strands springing up

need to get moving. I have a busy day ahead," she

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

shook her head.

are you buying?” he asked, still unwilling

Mom, and something nice for Grandpa and

carried a note of suspicion wrapped in

"Nope."

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

her fingers loose, voice

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

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

quiet hallways, and stepped onto

1.

Jon and Elliot off to

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

fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had

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

pale, then burned red. He spun toward the Baroness. “I—I

on the table. Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had

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

to Sofina. She'd never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward

least this

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

The room fell silent.

Grandma," she said. "I'll do my

arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin that made

her nose, lips curling into a sneer. "Go on, Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag the

fighting to lift this family up, while you

crimson. "You're the half-slave here, Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle

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

not believe in

what I meant! I just think

fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up as wisdom. And you know what they say: hell's full

snapped. "You're a fool if you

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

I'm

main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is

if Sofina fails, I want both of you out of the Wolfsbane family-for

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

too!

her, raising a brow. "Alright.

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

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

out laughing. "Ha! You're really digging your own

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

"But if I win, you'll accept our marriage- no more

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

he said. "I

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

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

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

way home, Sofina frowned, glancing out the window. "You

"Trust?

look. "That's supposed

you want comfort, talk to someone who hasn't

I bet on your

arched a brow. "You really think this

Alex said. "It'll show who's got guts and

crossed her arms. "And what

finally fit right in with

proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes

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

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

casually resting on the wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy for a gardener like me," he

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

can."

glancing at him. "You

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

her head, half anxious, half amused. "I

Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon;

Group's towering headquarters, its glass walls gleaming in

me luck," Sofina whispered as the car

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

QUMS

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

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

a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old,

with them was like a beggar asking a banker to lend

accepted the challenge in front of the whole house.

like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from

their voices low but tense, each waiting for

Group. The sight

all every one

of them was hono

thing: a coffaboration

earth are you doing here?"

found Heinrich standing with

hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way a

sentence.

I tried. I truly did. I don't understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward and grabbed Sofina's wrist in a rough. "You're here to attract attention," he hissed. "I told you I won't give you any. Leave this place." "Heinrich,” she said calmly. "I'm not here for you. I'm here for the Wolfsbane- for the Eden Group

his tone thick with mockery. "You? Who the hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group. You're not

was still buttoning up his Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided

by a guest-he forced her out

me the

hand clamped around Sofina's arm,

collar, pulled on his gloves, and strode out

Sofina crouched on the floor, gathering a pile of scattered

said quietly, helping her pick them up.

frustrated. "It's Heinrich. No matter what I say, he just slips back into his

asked, gently lifting her chin, checking for

serious,"

handed her the last sheet. "You know, you don't need to

like the feel of

chest. "The same way

"You really

me, you looked at me like I was more than data in a

walked back through the glass

a voice

told you to stay away from me. I don't want you near

The color drained

it-the invisible chain that still

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

forward, placing himself between Sofina

a guest. You have no authority to order people

gardener telling me how to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to

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

I'm Heinrich Schiller." Heinrich's face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener.

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

resources, hurried over and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted

here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and

tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you.

gardener.

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

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

closer. "You seem to forget your place. I'm Dietrich

fire you anytime I want.

and beg

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

he's not

doesn't, he deserves your respect. You're nothing compared

shaking

fired if you don't!"

Alex. We've known each other a long time. Just kneel and bow three times, and maybe I'll let you keep your

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

started to gather, drawn by the rising tension. Laughter rippled through them like

trying to stand up

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

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

and turned to

you've been desperate for my attention, haven't you? Well,

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

bows, and I

hand tightened around Alex's arm,

tone darkened. "If you don't, I'll make sure everyone

have the whole

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

s

stepped forward, but Sofina grabbed him tighter and

was soft but steady. "Let

She met his eyes. "Trust

Sofina stepped forward alone.Chapter

boil. "You hit me, bitch-"

curse.

you think you're doing, bitch!" Dietrich

you strike Mister Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot -

him with a hand at the small of

Mister Heinrich. I've called security. Twenty lashes. She won't be

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

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

sneered. "The one who'll get hurt is

bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish

his head.

began to

dare she hit

know Heinrich's the

another

Group security unit glided forward and ran its routine: ID scan,

the system flagged a threat to her, an alert raced through the

pinged a node nobody in the room expected-Eve, the household

had wired her into

touched Sofina

network. "Override the previous command.

optical sensors swung

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

security robot drew an electric whip from

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

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

Eden Group tech is already the most advanced,"

ripple of confusion

robot didn't stop until Dietrich

kicked him out, shoving

frozen, her mind struggling to catch up

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

voice low and

lunged toward her, his hand swinging

time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over

weak, but because she'd

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

let go of me!"

lid.

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

knees, clutching at a hand that felt as if bone

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

loose. Her heels struck the marble floor

-

finished presenting their offer - a bid to replace the Krugers, who'd been kicked out of Eden's

favor, to become the next family tied to its vast

they were desperater

Eden that Heinrich would cooperate if the contract

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

was holding Heinrich down, and Heinrich bled and

went white with fury. She stormed over and slapped

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

"Calling the police won't help

true?"

was Sofina. She hit

crossed her arms and held herself steady. "So what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing

nobles still carried real

punishment

and swift. More often than not,

law protected rank,

a commoner, most people just accepted it.

the Prussia — power didn't need to

turned her sharp

know why you married Sofina — to make me jealous, to get my attention. Well, you've got it. I think that's enough. Divorce her. I'll marry

won't divorce her. Go ahead and marry

don't have

soft. "I'm doing at this for you and for your Sant Claire family. When im done with Heinrich, if you

stared at her, disbelief hardening his face. "Do you really

you? That everyone just spins around

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

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

shouted. "Kneel! Now!" Katarina's voice

discovered something she wouldn't admit

him.

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

Heinrich, everything was

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

turned, trying to put distance between them, but before he could take another step, her

and found her staring at him, fierce and

stop, Alex," Katarina said, every word

I made you kneel in the rain for three days and nights? You think

voice low and hard as steel. "You're not my wife anymore. I don't owe you a damn thing. I don't answer

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

burned bright, but beneath it something else trembled — a flash of tears she fought to hide, gripping him with

I command

this bitch!"

were quiet, but

Sofina caught it in

don't touch him again. He isn't yours. You're pathetic.

used to obedience. She had been treated

the whispers for

the Rosenheim title was bought

their own marquis,

treachery, that beneath their silks and titles they were nothing

Katarina shouted to the room, her voice shaking with fury. "She's spitting on my family name! Slap her-make

to

anyone could raise a hand, a silver Eden security robot glided between them, its mechanical

property," it announced

would-be attackers jerked, their muscles seized, and they dropped hard

unit repeated. "Please remain calm

stood there, red-faced and unmoored robbed, for the moment, of the power

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.