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."

He spoke of destroying a powerful sect as casually as if he were talking about slaughtering a chicken.

Everyone around was stunned-what kind of confidence was this? How strong did one have to be to have such unwavering self-assurance?

If they had heard him before, they would have dismissed it as bluster, and not even credible bluster at that.

However, they had just witnessed him severely injured Martin in a single move-it was terrifying.

"Heather, do you have any last words before you die?" Sebastian asked.

Heather was trembling so much that her legs gave out. She fell to her knees before Sebastian. "Sebastian, please don't kill me. For the sake of the one night we shared as husband and wife, spare my life. I'm still so young. I don't want to

die."

mention our one night together? You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then tossed me off a cliff ff

know I was wrong now. Please give me a chance to change. I'll devote myself to you and serve

Let's

and even tried to humiliate my wife.

doing! It was Sean acting

with me," Heather quickly tried to distance herself from the

"She's right, I can vouch for her. When it all happened, Heather

then

intent.

belongs to s

quickly denied, "It wasn't me! I

of you. So,

against each other? How

silently agreed, thinking that forcing them to choose

than simply killing them

all, the survivor would live with the guilt

you one minute to

eyes were full of fear

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

us go,

give you a chance.

Why don't you just rob a bank?"

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

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

teeth, feeling as if

large amount of gold, Sebastian

Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100 thousand

and left after receiving

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

followed Hendrick to

I'd like to ask you for a

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

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

was a debt that Hendrick

least a second grade alchemist, with immeasurable strength to boot. Such

to find someone." Sebastian requested paper

wasn't a professional artist, his drawing

woman in the picture your

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

Abigail's eyes. It was hard not to admire a

but

in the

matching her own beauty.

the circumstances and

Mr. Wilder. I'll send people to find her immediately. I'm sure we'll

the chamber, waiting for

to arrange for some people to take care

Brork to protect

power first hand, Brork didn't dare

He was

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

I just can't swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter

asked, "Are you willing to marry the

"Mr. Camden is an outstanding

marriage today and then ask the Stonebrook family to deal

daughter then stepped out to greet

large numbers,

them was a dignified middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one

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

truly graces our humble Knott Estate," Martin said with a

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

Please, come in." Martin led the father and son into the

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

you for the compliment, Mr. Stonebrook." Heather appeared slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left her, like they were practically

impolite to

of his daze and quickly stood up, saying, "I'm

him a bashful smile. She was not angry at all. In

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

strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only a matter

even secure a place among the four great

Denzel smiled a

said, "My

Knott once not

love at first sight

he lost

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

speaking, he clapped his hands, and the servants immediately opened

were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs,

though smaller, contained

box of top-grade gemstones, a box of premium medicinal herbs, some

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

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

body, improve physical constitution, extend

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

proudly, "Mr. Knott, are you satisfied with

satisfied, actually,"

does that mean you agree

be interested in my daughter

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

on the wedding date, setting it for a year

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

southern region, there aren't many people who could cause

named Sebastian Wilder. He's just

commoner.

fell ill with a strange disease once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none

was powerless and

you mind, we can call off the engagement, Mr.

eyes. "I heard about this

worry, Heather. I don't

you for understanding," Heather forced

already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked.

herself, she

what I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but a beast. He's worse than an

got engaged, he demanded that

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

the table in front of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares to

Camden, that scoundrel is very strong. Even my

heard he should be under 30 years old. How could he be stronger than Mr.

"As cultivators improve their skills, their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and pills that extend life and

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

right. That brat's cultivation is at least at the early pinnacle

is definitely well over

scoffed. "Isn't he just an early-stage divine grandmaster? That's

and Camden's engagement

the Stonebrook family, one of the four major families of the southern region, Camden

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

Heather's family background wasn't on par with the daughters of the four great families, her

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

a genius with boundless potential and unimaginable future

beauty and talent compensated for

even jealous of Heather. After

those who secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their

also heard the news, but he paid it no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't want her even if she was offered without a

million gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested

of the cultivation technique-

to boost the cultivation of those around

to rest. One day, after finishing his

getting engaged tomorrow at Knott

invitations? One of them is for me,

nodded. "Yes, you're

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

"Mr. Wilder, are you

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

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

"My father is right. You mustn't

walking right into

a bunch of petty clowns.

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

remained unmoved. "I appreciate your concern, but those people

just clowns. They're not worth

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

ie

in the southern region, even stronger than the Netherworld Sect. They shouldn't be underestimated

added, "Mr. Wilder, please listen to us and don't

they'll cook up something else next time even if I skip this

better to confront them sooner rather than later,Chapter

his group approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman

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

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

Sebastian nodded.

received word that the Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the banquet. Going there now is like walking into a trap,"

been waiting here just to tell me this?" Sebastian

flatter yourself. I just happened to run into you and thought I'd give you a friendly warning," Kaitlyn

care so much about me. Could it be that

scoffed and turned

says so, then

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

made up. No more advice, please," Sebastian

daughter both sighed and shook their heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to his doom. All they could probably do

was festive and

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

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

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

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

Sebastian.

on Sebastian's

at that moment, "Mr. Camden,

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

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

"By the way, has my

head ran into some issues and likely won't make it today. But with the family's third elder and the seventh elder

again in

and

he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he spotted

the Stonebrook family's plan,

gritting her teeth. "Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I can't decide if I

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

dumb. Since you've come

wore a mocking smile. "Brat, today

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 hands, I'll spare your

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

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

because he came to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden

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

Among all the people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed

and said, "Today is your engagement party. Killing someone might bring bad luck, don't

care about such things. If you want

his smile was full of

furious. "What are you laughing at, you

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

my woman? You've

This

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

me out. I was simply

been practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

One day,

Estate, lured me into her room,

"Shut up!"

while snapping, "Stop spouting nonsense and tarnishing my

"Mr. Camden, he's just slandering Heather on purpose.

him. This guy

you

replied, "Why don't you let me finish what I was saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and

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

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

couldn't 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 a cliff. If

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

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

to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my

quickly chimed in, "Camden, this guy has ulterior motives.

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

ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or

planned to verify everything as soon as the engagement banquet

as vast and overwhelming as

to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers said as

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

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

smirked mockingly and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you, but

make sure you wish you were dead!" Camden snapped angrily. Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but I'll still

left a few scratch marks on her chest because I got a

chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed by now, given a warrior's rapid

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing

tricked, Heather was

now, you're spouting lies! I swear I'll cut out your tongue and feed it to

and he was infuriated by

of the southern region, with all their elders

in particular, was a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power was

pressure from his released aura alone made it hard

with worry. But there was little they could

Just as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered, reacting

resounding sound, Septimus' arm

Septimus let out a pained scream and staggered

Sebastian chased him down and grabbed Septimus by

"What?"

stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster

strength was beyond

long ago, Sebastian had

most a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why would he bother with the

erupted in fury. "I've really underestimated you. If you release Septimus now, I might leave your corpse

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

also approached Sebastian, his eyes filled with

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

Kaitlyn from the start. Although her face was hidden, she had an undeniable allure

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

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

breaks both his

out his eyes and breaking his

kind for offering this. This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in

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

isn't some death trap. Why shouldn't

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

The Stonebrook

exceeds your imagination. Gouging out your eyes and breaking your hands is the best

"Ms. Gardner,

in the habit

it's hard to accept, but

miserably than to

something, but in the end, she only

eyes and hands was a fate worse than death. Rather than living

chances were slim, at least Sebastian could

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook family

seething with rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder,

be satisfied until I torture you

cripple his cultivation

was already walking

intensified. Every footfall left

Trey's cultivation must be truly

said that Trey has the ability to fight beyond

struck so quickly before; this is definitely going to

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Camden shouted,

and immediately drew it from its sheath.

the blade resonated through the air, unleashing a

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

this be the Godslayer Blade of the Stonebrook

Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with it, they rarely met an equal. As long as

They hadn't expected Camden to carry the Godslayer Blade

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

Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a

here was Sebastian, empty-handed-what

eyes, unable to bear watching Sebastian's

who had taken her virginity, but after calming down

for Sebastian, she would have been defiled by that old scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be

a bit more, she even started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was in danger—she simply

had come to realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't need her protection at

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

the Godslayer Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade

miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere

slumped to the ground

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

strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out

filled with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique

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

"How is this possible?"

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

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

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

exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go

was

"This sword is

in a mix of anger and panic, clenching his

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

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

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

don't get too cocky! The Stonebrook family's power is beyond anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled

two really

the idiot! Your whole family is!"

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

kill us?" Heather

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

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

By the end, his voice was thunderous, sending shivers

could believe how brazen

looked down on him and thought that he was lying. However, after witnessing

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

house to admit your

"Whether or not I end up in a grave, you won't

dare!" Camden

gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family

Sebastian looked at him with disdain. He

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

struggled to remain standing,

him!" Camden

had no choice but to obey Camden.

join the fray. Instead, he used the

wore a disdainful expression. With a wave of his hand, a tremendous energy burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters

Stonebrook family had been wiped

cake. The sheer

was terrifying.

to the ground, and

Heather. He

the air, attempting to

nervous clerk and decided to let the

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

the tight bun at the back of her head

spread through her limbs like warm water,

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

between danger and the child, the day would have ended in chaos or

her posture unexpectedly shy. "Thank you," she murmured, sincerity softening every line

smile-courteous, almost

Ivy, I should be the one thanking you," he replied, voice clear as a

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

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

all knew each ensemble Ivy had chosen started at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended

the card, uncertainty flickering across her

scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel gave a single, calm nod. "Wrap

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

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

from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags

showroom, the other employees watched, envy shining

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

more.

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

guided Nathaniel

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

over eight million." s

would never have taken a job

said, firm as bedrock. "I'm buying

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

stared at the numbers in

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

courtesy. "Ms. Ivy, I truly appreciate everything you

set the

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

marble. "Pass it on to whatever gentleman keeps you

ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's far too expensive," she blurted, hands rising like a

apairof

silence until now, spoke in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you ever hit a rough patch, come to me—no

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

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

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

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

mind. Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best friend would never check up

Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts

remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci never thinks of buying any for

like a sky

finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit

first fib, it was only because

like an adult

delegate adult

sharpened. "You've figured something out,

Jonathan blinked, performing

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

fast, and the realization sent a tremor of startled

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

his shoulders back and forced a civil smile. "Why would I be?" he

skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value

snapped shut.Am I

throat. “And exactly where did you pick

Dad.” Jon shrugged as if stating

chest. If even a child could read him, how had Cecilia never

uneasy when the restroom door stayed

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

the corridor, she almost collided with

trailing behind them, arms

And what on earth is

intent on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel

said smoothly. "Holiday tokens,

so Nathaniel was patching the hole

heads-up would have been nice. I was starting to wonder why

utterly bewildered. When have I ever

cleared his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look.

resigned himself to carrying the constipation story on his

been skimping on water lately,"

Jonathan's

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

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

without warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks until

the problem, never imagining the confession would buy

Cecilia had hugged

fine if I drink

had always been the model child, obedient,

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

with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce a

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

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

and a glimmer

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

stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand.

be embarrassed. If you're not sure

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

he let Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his

I can manage on

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

she couldn't help pitying him. So young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If it lasted, a doctor's visit would

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

"Okay."

contraband and

couch, Elliot lounged with a plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's

sure doesn't look it," Elliot muttered around a

a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease

trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of pitiful," he breathed, each

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

take tons of

arms gathering the new clothes in bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back while

ended, she pinged the piChapter

departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the sorrow hovering behind

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

often to check on

by little, life seemed to find

the children be able to come

the Rainsworths, so her priorities were

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

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

while longer, then finally ended the call with

final outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot

into a rare hush, holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and

leaned back against the couch, eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five minutes of calm when Nathaniel

"Ceci."

in surprise.

this all we're doing today?" His question

don't 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

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

closer, the scent of cedar from his

could speak

arms swept out

possessive motion,

against his chest, as though

have

with gravel, every syllable vibrating through the scant

cheek. Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her

squirmed, whisper-shouting, "Stop it, let me go! If Elliot or Jonathan

tightened his embrace, chin settling atop her hair as if

two married people holding each other?

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

on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low, laced with a faint, almost childish

past her irritation. "You left the country

grunted an affirmative, then an idea lit behind his eyes. "Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build some resilience. It'll give us

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

།

Elliot. As for Jonathan, let him

a hand, the pad of his finger brushing her burning cheek. “You're being terribly

"Hmm?"

stand to be apart from the kids, yet you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like I'm dead last in

then did it click. Her proud, composed husband was jealous of his own

the kids outrank you. I risked my life to

a storm gathering behind

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

stunned that she would dare make a break for it, then sprang up and covered the distance

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

of spare rooms in this house. Pick any one of

gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her

the deadbolt turned,

wind hissed against the windows, but inside, heat

slicing through the curtains and painting the room in chilled

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

over that faint roughness, then lower to the soft curve of

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open, hazy with

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

Nathaniel. I can't breathe.” Her voice came

sighed. "Stay. Just

a full day of window-shopping

his arms and mumbled, "Give

Cecilia realize how clingy he could be, warmth and weight wrapped around her like an

this attached?

tugged at his mouth.

hair, dark strands springing up beneath her

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

her hand again. "Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends, that's

her head. "That's

asked, still unwilling

for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa and

note of suspicion wrapped in

"Nope."

head. He had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every hanger she touched, as if color

darkened by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose, voice

just hates it when

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

through quiet

1.

and

brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had even

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

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

went pale, then burned red. He spun toward the

Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her so-called pride, had done nothing but

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

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

least this one had

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

The room fell silent.

Grandma," she

Beatrix a smug grin that

-try all you want. When you

to lift this family up, while you bury it in arrogance and shame. You're nothing but a

the half-slave here, Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You

great enough that even the Eden Group will want that

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

I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make

you're not being realistic-you're being a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up as wisdom. And you know what they

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

deep, mocking sound that filled the room. "Then let's make this

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

If Sofina pulls

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

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

too! If I win, I want Nikolaus's

her, raising a brow. "Alright.

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

calling me a half-slave, how about this—if you lose, you kneel ten times and admit you're lower than that

really digging your

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

flinch. "Fine," he said calmly. "But if I win, you'll accept our

recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's official now. You'll have to honor

"I like it when everyone plays

glance at them. She couldn't care

the Wolfsbane family

you have three days to negotiate and close the

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

smirked. "Trust? No. Desperation?

"That's supposed

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

at least I bet on your

brow. "You really think

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

arms. "And what

"Then I'll finally fit right

in the passenger seat, clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind was sharp. Today

Nikolaus-a machine

hood, “we should return this car. It's too extravagant for

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

perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare

can."

frowned, glancing at him. "You really think

"More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe

half amused. "I

me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina.

descended toward the Eden Group's towering headquarters,

me luck," Sofina whispered as the

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

QUMS

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

tower and felt something empty

the sky like a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old, fractured, scandal-scarred—could sit at that table felt

to partner with them was like a beggar asking a banker

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

seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all dressed in

low but tense, each waiting for

The sight said

all every one

of them was hono

a coffaboration with

are you

found Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim,

hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way a judge's

sentence.

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

fool? Even your grandmother

still buttoning up his Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided into the room, humming softly as its sensors

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

the footage,"

Sofina's arm, dragging her down the hallway while

pulled on his gloves, and strode out toward

gathering a pile of scattered papers. He knelt beside

said quietly, helping her pick them

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

asked, gently lifting

nothing serious," she

sheet. "You know, you don't need to print everything. The digital files

the feel

"The

chuckled. "You really are

than data in a file. You made me feel

back through the glass corridor

voice cracked the

doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I don't want

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

said. "You're a guest. You have no authority to order

here-l expect to be

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

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

He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a nearby

and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you joined our efforts-Winchester's finest in Al

your place

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

Your gardener. He insulted me and tried to throw

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

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

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

you anytime I want. Now, you've offended

Kneel and

one who tried to throw out another guest, and he

arrogant gardener," Dietrich snapped. "Do you have any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's

he's not joining?"

he deserves your respect. You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I make sure

shaking

be fired if

known each other a long time. Just

and dangerous. "How about this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three kowtows, then

by the rising tension. Laughter rippled through them like

trying to stand up

joined in. "That gardener's got

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

and turned to

desperate for my attention, haven't you? Well, now

fool who doesn't know his place. How about

Three bows, and I might forgive

Alex's

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

have the

be nothing outcasts.

s

him tighter and shook her

soft but steady.

She met

Sofina stepped forward alone.Chapter

as a boil. "You hit me, bitch-" He spat the word like

curse.

in God's name do you think

Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her,

with a hand at the small of

won't be standing after that her flesh will tell

Heinrich said, every syllable a command. "Give

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

sneered. "The one who'll get

"Security — attend. Punish this

his head. "I warned

began to

she hit Heinrich," someone

you know Heinrich's

her!" another

unit glided forward and ran its routine: ID scan,

a threat to her, an alert raced

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

into his network bridge so she could

Any device that touched Sofina reported

previous command.

security robot optical sensors swung

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

an electric whip from a holster

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

triumph to alarm. "Is the

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

confusion moved through

stop until Dietrich

it hauled him to his feet and kicked

stood frozen, her mind struggling to catch up with the chaos unraveling around

his bleeding nose. He wiped the blood away with the

voice low and venomous. "I'll teach you a

lunged toward her, his

the first time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over

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

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

go

his temper under a hard lid.

until Heinrich screamed like an animal, pain folding him

dropped to his knees, clutching at a hand that felt as if bone and pride

you let me go!" Heinrich gasped, tears

of the Eden Group meeting room like a storm breaking loose. Her heels

-

their offer - a bid to replace the Krugers, who'd been kicked

favor, to become the next family tied to

they were

she'd promised Eden that Heinrich would cooperate if

polished calm of her diplomacy shattered. What she saw made

down, and Heinrich bled

face went white with fury. She stormed over and slapped Alex hard. "You

doing to my Heinrich? Let him go this instant. How dare you

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

true?" Katarina

She hit my nose."

coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if you want-try

real power. The law bent for

punishment could be death. If a commoner

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

law protected

people just accepted it.

— power didn't need

turned her sharp eyes

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

won't divorce her. Go ahead and marry

don't have to be

said, her tone soft. "I'm doing at this for you and for your Sant Claire family. When im done with Heinrich, if you behave yourself, I'll

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

to you? That everyone just

to 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 woman and come back to me. You've caused enough

muttered. His patience with her was long gone. Just the sound of her voice gave him a headache. He took Sofina's hand and turned

from me!" Katarina shouted. "Kneel! Now!" Katarina's voice cracked

discovered something she wouldn't admit

him.

she despised him now, the memories still haunted her - the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her

was cold

didn't want to

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

fierce and cold, while his other arm

to stop, Alex," Katarina

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

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

husband, you're my dog for life," Katarina hissed, and her hand whipped across his face. The slap cracked through the

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

I command

bitch!"

without hesitation. Her eyes were quiet, but they held frost. "I pity you," she

on Alex. Sofina caught it in one swift move and

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

She had been treated like royalty, and she'd made

heard the whispers for

Rosenheim title was

their barony by stabbing their

silks and titles they were nothing more than well-fed servants gnawing on their

the room, her voice shaking with fury. "She's spitting

forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They moved to

raise a hand, a silver Eden security robot glided between them, its mechanical voice cutting

is permitted on Eden Group property," it announced firmly. "Cease all hostile

rose and a pair of tasers snapped out. Electricity flashed. The would-be attackers jerked, their muscles

fighting. No violence," the security unit repeated.

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

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

get out of here,"

like a whip. "You always talked about love! You said you loved me! You swore you'd do anything

me your body, to destroy yourself for me! You

forced gestures-empty rituals, hollow vows, or

answer, another android

your scheduled interview for the collaboration. Please proceed to Meeting Room 01. I can escort you if you are

hand. “Go,” he said quietly.

she asked,

to the garden. Only workers and authorized personnel can access it. These people won't be able to

glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The person in charge will arrive shortly." It turned and glided away, leaving her alone in

door opened and a poised woman in

a change in location. Please follow me. Miss Von Adler

blinked. "Miss Von Adler? The

ma'am. She's

nodded, still dazed, and followed the woman

Eden Group headquarters. Her thoughts

powerful woman in Eden-want to meet her

Wolfsbane family. She wasn't supposed to meet the chairman, only the department

It didn't make sense.