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."

night together? You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then

was wrong now.

gone into acting with those skills. Let's set the fact that you harmed me

sent people after my godmother, had her beaten severely, and even tried to humiliate my wife.

wasn't my doing! It was

had nothing to do with me,"

it all happened, Heather

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

intent.

belongs to s

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

one of you. So, you

turn us against each other? How

onlookers silently agreed, thinking that forcing them to choose would be

simply killing

the survivor would

talk. I'm giving you one minute to decide. IfChapter

were full of fear and

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

can negotiate. Let us go, and just

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

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

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

fine. I can just

gritted his teeth, feeling

of gold, Sebastian only asked

long after, Martin handed Sebastian ten notes,

his word and left after receiving the

merciful,

Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton

to ask you for a favor,"

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

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

was a debt that Hendrick considered

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

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

professional artist, his

Wilder, is the woman in the picture

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

eyes. It was hard not to admire a

had always been confident in herself, but

the

matching her

circumstances and timing of

worry, Mr. Wilder. I'll send people to find her immediately.

stayed at the chamber, waiting for updates.

to arrange for some people to take care of

assigned Brork to protect her

first

He was completely subdued, with no thoughts

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

can't swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter

"Are you willing to marry the Stonebrook's

hesitation, "Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of course

today and then ask the Stonebrook family to deal with that

stepped out to greet

in large numbers, bringing

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

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

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

you're too

for that; it's our honor. Please, come in." Martin led

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

she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never

"Camden, it's impolite to

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

bashful smile. She was not angry at all.

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

by leaps and

among the four great ladies

Denzel smiled a

said, "My son

Knott once not long ago, and

at first sight

lost

his appetite and many.

As his father, I became

Cóntent

his hands, and

a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal.

though smaller,

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

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

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

cleanse the body, improve physical constitution, extend life,

constitution, accelerated

you satisfied with

satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin

mean you agree to their marriage?"

For him to be interested in my daughter is an honor for us. How could we

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

settled on the wedding date, setting it for a year later. Martin then mentioned Sebastian to

we've recently provoked someone whose strength is formidable and

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

scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's just

commoner.

many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later, when my illness flared up, that scoundrel saved

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

can call off the engagement,

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

don't

thank you for understanding," Heather forced out a

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

it up herself, she hoped to handle the

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

we got engaged, he demanded that I

of woman and naturally refused him. He then tried

"Heather, don't

is very strong. Even my father couldn't

be under 30 years old. How could

cultivators improve their skills, their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and pills

his 20s, but

at least at the early pinnacle stage of diving grandmaster, strongerthan the eight great

age is definitely well over

just an

and Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

the heir of the Stonebrook family, one of the four major families of the southern

decent status as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it

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

were remarkable. The Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings,

with boundless potential

talent compensated for

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

Heather, were equally disheartened,

paid it no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't

million gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in a

was to find Fressia, secure the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether

pills now to boost the cultivation of those around

refinement was an exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest.

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

of them is for me, I assume?" Sebastian

nodded. "Yes,

nothing more than an attempt to use the Stonebrook family's influence to

"Mr. Wilder, are you planning to

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

the core and their invitation is

"My father is right. You

right

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

careless. know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has many powerful figures. If you go you're bound

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your concern,

clowns. They're not

fine. If they dare provoke me, I'll

ie

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

listen

revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even if I

them sooner rather than later,Chapter

of Knott Estate, a woman

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

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

Sebastian nodded.

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

to tell me this?"

to run into you and thought

you to care so much about me. Could it

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed and turned

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

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

up. No more advice, please," Sebastian said

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

atmosphere was

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

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

beaming. To have Heather a woman

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

Sebastian.

been keeping tabs on Sebastian's

just at that moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian has

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

in place. He won't be able

the way, has my father

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

again

and his

What's he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he spotted

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

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

place isn't exactly a dragon's

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

a mocking smile. "Brat, today next year will

down, admit your mistakes, gouge out

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

invited you here just to kill you. You're no

thinks that just because he came to congratulate

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

only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done to her, seeing him in danger made

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

cultivators don't care about such things. If you want to live today, the only way is to

his smile

furious. "What are you laughing at,

don't get it. There are so many good women out there. Why on earth did you choose someone as despicable as

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

lost it. This guy must

a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to enhance

day, shevited

into her room, and

"Shut up!"

Sebastian while snapping,

slandering Heather on

don't believe him. This guy

do you

saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me, but I wasn't interested in her at

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

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

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 I hadn't been lucky, I wouldn't be

angrily. "To slander my woman right in front

only telling the truth. Her first time was with me. If you don't believe me, you can have her checked. If

up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll

guy has ulterior motives.

Heather for a long moment, and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept

him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was

Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as soon as the

vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it hard for

this is the power of a divine grandmaster? Just the aura alone is enough to make

Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they were also divine grandmasters,

were at the early stage, whereas Septimus was

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

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

way, I left a few scratch marks on her chest because

truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed

However, Heather's reaction

stunned. Upon realizing she

tricked, Heather was

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

fool, and he was infuriated

the four major families of the southern region, with all

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

move, the pressure from his released aura alone made

Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they

it seemed he would succeed,

sound,

let out a pained scream and

him down and grabbed Septimus

"What?"

into chaos. Everyone was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had

strength was

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

all, if

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

he's from the Stonebrook family! If you dare to kill him, you won't even have a grave to

Sebastian, his eyes filled with

me a favor? I'll have him release Septimus, and in return,

Kaitlyn from the start. Although her face was

he had imagined. He nodded and said,

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

eyes, and breaks

replied, "Mr. Camden, isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking

I consider myself rather kind for offering this. This is my bottom line!" Camden

Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I

death trap. Why shouldn't I come?" Sebastian

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

The Stonebrook family

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

"Ms. Gardner, I

the

know it's hard to accept,

miserably than to die.

to say something, but in the end, she only gave a

eyes and hands was a fate worse than

the chances were slim, at

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook family erupted

rage as he shouted,

be satisfied until I torture you

cripple his

truth, Trey didn't need Camden's order. He was already walking

Every footfall left a deep imprint

cultivation must be truly unfathomable.

the middle pinnacle stage of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability

He struck so quickly before; this is definitely going

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Camden shouted, tossing a long

sword and immediately drew it from its sheath. A

resonated through the air, unleashing a wave of terrifying killing

though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their hearts were quickly

this be the Godslayer

of the Stonebrook family proudly stated, "That's right. This is our Stonebrook family's Godslayer Blade. Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with

stunned. They hadn't expected Camden to carry the

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

renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could

Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

eyes, unable to

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

found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted to save her. That

started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was in danger—she simply didn't want to

Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers,

felt completely powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her

the Godslayer Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It seemed as though it would split

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

with weaker cultivation slumped to the ground while

alive, so his sword's target was

about to strike, Sebastian suddenly

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

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

"How is this possible?"

and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as they were unable to believe

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

trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted

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

he was jolted

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

in a mix of anger and

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

kill or be killed. If you think you can kill

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

family's power is beyond anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is

pair of idiots. You two really are

Your whole family is!" Heather shouted angrily

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

plan to kill

our family will never let you go. Not just you, but everyone you care about will pay with

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

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

believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring his

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

He remarked, "You truly are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong for

fight us alone? Hand over the Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you

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

dare!"

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

disdain. He

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

the grandmasters struggled to remain standing, their legs

him!"

family were filled with terror, they had no choice but to

the fray. Instead, he used the

boom, and the grandmasters coughed

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

of cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

collapsed to the ground, and her face became pale with

moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed

into the air, attempting to

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

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

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

once Nathaniel turned away did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like warm water, leaving her

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

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

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

answered with a small, practiced smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly composed

thanking

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

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

Ivy had chosen started at well over

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

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

wanted an entire rack of adult clothing,

expression. "Of course,"

from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags

the showroom, the other employees watched, envy

cover the down payment on a

more.

standing nearby and everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one

guided Nathaniel

but it really is a mountain of clothes.

over eight million." s

Ivy would never have taken a job at a boutique this

said, firm as bedrock. "I'm

to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she finally

the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy,

presented the card

"Ms. Ivy,

set the

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

on to whatever gentleman keeps you company."

first in wonder, then alarm. A quick shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's far

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

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

loaded with crisp shirts, tailored

reach his thigh, and asked, "What business

out

Ms. Kennedy, and

nodded once, expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy certainly

to buy clothes for

mood darkened like a sky before

and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually

had believed the first fib, it was

more like an adult compared

Cecelia? She would never delegate adult shopping to a

figured

blinked,

comes to social-grade

exposed so fast, and the realization sent a tremor of startled admiration

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

and forced a civil smile. "Why would I be?" he countered, voice

for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value

mouth opened, then snapped shut.Am

exactly where did you pick up on

across your face, Dad.” Jon

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

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

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

the corridor, she almost collided with Jonathan and

the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded

been? And what on earth is

inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel

he said smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing

Nathaniel was patching the hole

well, a heads-up would have been nice. I was

utterly bewildered. When have I ever been

Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding flashed

himself to carrying the constipation story

I've been skimping on water lately," Jon

Jonathan's

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

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

heat rush to his cheeks until his

had merely confessed the problem, never imagining

had been ages since Cecilia had hugged

I drink more water. It isn't that

the model child, obedient, courteous, eager to

"That won't do. Maybe we should buy

the way surgeons announce a lifesaving

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 flush covering his

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

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

the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the small box into Jonathan's

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

me? Jonathan stared at the plastic-wrapped suppositories,

this particular battlefield. He shook his head so hard his hair

can manage

his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that only made the boy's ears flame

she couldn't help pitying him. So young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache

she said,

"Okay."

box like contraband and bolted down the hallway

fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why, felt sweat

sure doesn't look it," Elliot muttered

beside him, fixed him with a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease

hand against his chest, trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really

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

to take tons of

by one, she

ended, she pinged

Queenie's departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in

of her life, including short clips of

elderly couple, in return, video-called often to

seemed to find its rhythm

the children be able to come back for a visit?" Bethany

knew Cecilia now belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side

have decided. We'll come right after the New Year

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

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

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

only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick

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

"Ceci."

surprise. "What is

we're doing today?" His

do you mean?"

Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing,"

turned his head, letting the full weight of his displeasure sit plainly on his face. Cecilia finally read the room. Something inside Nathaniel was storming, evident from the faint tension at his jaw and the way his gaze

her earlier cheer. "What's the

step closer, the scent of cedar from his freshly pressed

could speak

long arms swept

possessive motion,

chest, as though staking

have to

gravel, every syllable vibrating through the scant

across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened as she

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

her hair as if the conversation were

awkward about two married people holding each other? They're

muttered, "Not babies?

my own," Nathaniel replied, the

arched, genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You

we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to

Elliot's just regained his health,

།

a full team to watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let him stay

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

"Hmm?"

me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's

did it click. Her proud, composed

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

a storm gathering behind the

Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the hallway,

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

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

pushing harder on the door. "There are plenty of

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

turned, and darkness

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

in a burst of white light, snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting the room in chilled

an inch away. She could count the

that faint

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open, hazy

even closer until her breath

up, Nathaniel. I can't breathe.” Her voice came out

his hold by a fraction, closed his eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just a little

friends a full

mumbled, "Give me a few more minutes.

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

when were you this attached? I

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

hair, dark strands springing up beneath

a busy day

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

head.

buying?” he asked, still unwilling to release

New clothes for Mom, and something

a note of suspicion

"Nope."

dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every hanger she

mood darkened by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat.

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

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

through quiet hallways, and

1.

and Elliot off to RaiChapter

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

think the Wolfsbane family

called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot

pale, then burned red. He spun toward

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

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

But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in

this

one of you! From this moment on, Sofina will handle the

The room fell silent.

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

flashing Beatrix a smug grin

"Go on, Sofina -try all you

worth a thousand of you. She's fighting to lift this family up, while you bury

disgrace?" Beatrix's face turned crimson. "You're the half-slave here, Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle worker? That she's going

"I think the Wolfsbane family is great enough that even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the

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

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

a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's

eyes flashed. "Me? Envious?" she snapped. "You're a

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

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

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

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

with a half-smile. "Then let's

"Count me in too! If I win, I want

gaze on her, raising a brow. "Alright. But what happens

won't lose. But fine-I'll play along. What do you

half-slave, how about this—if you lose, you kneel ten times and admit you're lower

burst out laughing. "Ha! You're really digging your own grave, loser! Fine-I'll take

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

"Fine," he said calmly. "But if I win,

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

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

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

one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family

have three days to negotiate and close the deal. That's all. Meeting

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

"Trust? No.

"That's supposed to make me

chuckled. "If you want comfort, talk to someone who hasn't met this family." Sofina rolled her

"Hey, at least I bet on

arched a brow. "You really

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

arms. "And what if you

"Then I'll finally fit right in

she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind was sharp. Today would decide

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

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

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

perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare buy you

can."

"You really think this

a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll have

anxious, half amused. "I wish I had

his grin widening. "You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for

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

me luck," Sofina whispered as the

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

QUMS

nerves eased. She wished she could carry that same unshakable optimism he

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

Group's glass façade rose into the sky like a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old, fractured, scandal-scarred—could sit at

Eden to partner with them was like a beggar asking

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

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

but tense, each waiting for their turn

The sight said

all every one

of them was hono

thing: a

you doing here?" a voice

Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim, both

hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way a

sentence.

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

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

up his Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided into the

monitor was just shoved by a guest-he forced her out into

the footage,"

around Sofina's arm, dragging her down the hallway while papers scattered across

straightened his collar, pulled on his gloves,

gathering a pile of scattered papers.

quietly, helping her pick them up.

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

hurt you?" Alex asked, gently lifting her chin, checking

serious," she

you don't

faintly. "Maybe. But I like the feel of

hand brushed his chest. "The same way I like

"You really

"You cooked for me, you looked at me like I was more than data in a

back through the glass corridor of Eden's

voice

the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I

color drained

it-the invisible chain that still

years of control doesn't vanish overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if waiting for his approval... or his

himself between Sofina and

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

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

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

know who I am? I'm Heinrich Schiller." Heinrich's face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener. When I'm finished, you'll

him anything. He brings trouble."

Schiller. What an

let out a derisive snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your

deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to

"That's the man. Your gardener. He

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

in this two-hundred-floor building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I

stepped closer. "You seem to forget

I can fire you anytime I want. Now,

Kneel and beg

stood firm. "Why should I? He's the one who tried to throw out another

gardener," Dietrich snapped. "Do you have any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one of the brightest minds

if he's not joining?"

respect. You're nothing compared

shaking his head. "I

fired if you don't!" Dietrich

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

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

gather, drawn by the

jeered. "A gardener trying to stand up to Heinrich? The

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

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

smirked and turned

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

doesn't know his place.

instead? Three bows, and I might

Alex's arm, her

make sure everyone in Winchester

I'll have

nothing outcasts. And

s

stepped forward, but Sofina grabbed him

but steady. "Let me

searching her face. She

stepped

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

curse.

do you think you're

Group! Security robot - fetch her,

supporting him with a hand at

She won't

every syllable a command. "Give her

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

one who'll get

bracelet. "Security

head. "I warned

began

she hit

you know Heinrich's the man everyone

her!" another voice

scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses

moment the system flagged a threat to her, an alert raced through the building's

the room expected-Eve, the

her into his network

that touched Sofina reported to Eve

"Override the previous command. Secure Dietrich

robot optical

into Dietrich's chest. The shock hit him like

security robot drew an electric whip from a

and dark lines of blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop! Not

noise tilting from triumph to alarm. "Is the Eden security unit

way. Eden Group tech is already the most advanced," someone muttered,

of confusion moved

robot didn't stop until Dietrich had taken twenty

kicked him out, shoving him

to catch

clutching his bleeding nose. He wiped the blood away with the back of

he hissed, voice low and

toward her, his hand swinging through the

first time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over and over

was weak, but because she'd once mistaken

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

go

kept his temper under a hard lid. The government cameras

Heinrich screamed like

knees, clutching at a hand

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

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

-

presenting their offer - a bid to replace the

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

were desperater

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

polished calm of her diplomacy shattered.

was holding Heinrich down, and Heinrich

with fury. She stormed over and

How dare you strike him until he bleeds-I'll call the police

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

that true?" Katarina

hit my nose." Heinrich

not a noble. You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if you want-try

carried real power. The law bent for

an immigrant struck a noble, the punishment could be death. If a

and swift. More often than

law protected

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

power didn't need to explain

sharp

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

divorce her. Go ahead and

have

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

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

That everyone just

that I'm even willing to marry you. How dare you disobey

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

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

discovered something she wouldn't admit — she

him.

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

was cold and transactionaChapter

had been dreading this moment. He didn't want to face

take another step, her hand shot out and clamped around his wrist like

found her staring at him, fierce and cold, while

stop, Alex," Katarina said, every

in the rain for three days and nights? You think I won't do it again? Don't test

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 hall like a

tears

I command

this bitch!" Katarina

Alex without hesitation. Her eyes were quiet,

on Alex. Sofina caught it in

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

been treated like royalty, and she'd made sure

heard the

Rosenheim title was

that they earned their barony by stabbing their own

their so-called empire was built on treachery, that beneath their silks and titles they were nothing more than well-fed servants gnawing

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

barons who bent to Katarina's will and some Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They moved

Eden security robot glided between them, its

property," it announced firmly. "Cease

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

No violence," the security unit

there, red-faced and unmoored robbed, for the moment,

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

here," she said, pulling him

cracked like a whip. "You always talked about love! You said you loved me! You

promised to obey me, to give me your body, to destroy yourself for me! You liar! You

fade, it hides behind forced gestures-empty rituals, hollow vows, or even violence and control-trying

answer, another android glided up

Sofina," it said smoothly, "this is your scheduled interview for the collaboration. Please proceed to Meeting Room 01. I can escort you if you are

hand. “Go,” he

you?" she asked, her voice

can access it. These people won't be able

corridor. The robot stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The person in charge will arrive shortly." It turned and glided away,

door opened and a poised woman in a tailored suit stepped in. "Miss Sofina?" she asked

sorry—there's been a change in location. Please follow me. Miss

Von Adler?

She's

and followed

Group headquarters. Her

most powerful

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

It didn't make sense.