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."

Sebastian let out a cold chuckle. "You still dare to mention our one night together? You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then tossed me off a cliff ff thadn't been lucky, I wouldn't be standing here now." s

Heather pleaded, "I'm just still too young and made a terrible mistake in a moment of weakness. I truly know I was wrong now. Please give me a chance to change. I'll devote myself to you and serve you well as your woman." s

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

"You also sent people after my godmother, had her beaten severely, and even tried to humiliate my wife. Such malice-how could I ever forgive you?"

"That wasn't my doing! It was Sean acting on his own!

"He was driven by lust. It had nothing to do with me," Heather quickly tried to distance herself from the blame.

Martin chimed in, "She's right, I can vouch for her. When it all happened, Heather was at the Netherworld Sect. She didn't know anything about it."

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

intent.

belongs to s

quickly denied, "It wasn't me!

scoffed. "Well, it's definitely either one of you.

you trying to turn us against each

thinking that forcing them

than simply killing

all, the survivor would live with

one minute to decide. IfChapter

full of fear

to die,

us go, and

a moment and said, "Alright. I'll give you a chance. I want one million gold

just rob a bank?" Martin nearly jumped up in

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

one million, that's fine. I can just kill your daughter, and you

pay!" Martin gritted his teeth, feeling as if his heart

of gold, Sebastian only

Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100 thousand gold

his word and left after receiving

merciful, but because he wanted to take his

Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton Chamber

ask you for

no need to be so formal. Just tell me what

Sebastian not only healed his wounds, which saved his life, but also helped him break through

Hendrick considered a second chance

alchemist, with immeasurable strength to

someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then drew an image of

a professional artist, his

is the woman in the

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

disappointment flashed in Abigail's eyes. It was hard not to admire a man as exceptional

confident in herself, but after seeing the portrait, her

in the drawing

matching her own

explained the circumstances and timing

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

the chamber, waiting for updates.

to arrange for some people

he assigned Brork to protect

first hand, Brork

He was completely subdued, with

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

swallow this humiliation!"

"Are you willing

Camden is

ask the Stonebrook family

then stepped out

had arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance of betrothal

was a dignified middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook

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

truly graces our humble Knott

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

Martin led

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

she acted, the more

quickly reprimanded, "Camden, it's impolite to

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

showed him a bashful smile. She was not angry at all. In fact, she felt quite

four major families. If Heather could become the

cultivation resources, her strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only a matter of

among the four

Denzel smiled a

said, "My son

Knott once not

first sight for him.

lost his

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

clapped his hands, and the servants immediately opened

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

smaller, contained dozens of

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

gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880 thousand, which

to their rarity, even internal consumption was not enough, making them extremely scarce in the

physical constitution, extend life, and

accelerated their training speed, and even helped them break

proudly, "Mr. Knott, are you satisfied with the

satisfied, actually," Martin quickly

mean you agree

him to be interested in my daughter is an

overjoyed inside. With the future

settled on the wedding date, setting it for a year later. Martin

someone whose strength is formidable and who

there aren't many people who could cause trouble

scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's just a

commoner.

once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later, when my illness flared

clothes before he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and

call off

light crossed Camden's eyes. "I heard about this incident too, but I didn't know the full

I don't mind. It

you for understanding," Heather forced out a couple of

clever strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked.

herself, she

to marry him. But what I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but a beast. He's worse

we got engaged, he demanded that

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

table in front of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone

strong. Even my father couldn't

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

their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and pills that

his 20s, but

is at least at the early pinnacle stage

age is definitely well

he just an

and Camden's

family, one of the four major families of the southern region, Camden would typically only marry into one of the other

as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it was still far from matching the

Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the daughters of

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

boundless potential and

talent compensated for

and even jealous of Heather. After all,

secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with

was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything

obtaining a million gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in a vast amount

to find Fressia, secure the third stage of

wanted to stockpile pills now to boost the cultivation

periodically to rest. One day,

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

of them is for me, I assume?" Sebastian

"Yes,

more than an attempt

Wilder, are you planning

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

the

"My father is right. You mustn't

walking right into their

just a bunch of petty clowns.

careless. know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has many

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your concern, but

clowns. They're

If they

ie

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

listen to us and

cook up something else next time even if

confront them sooner

Sebastian and his group approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman suddenly

a veil partially hiding

you need from me?" Sebastian

Sebastian nodded.

family plans to kill you at the banquet. Going there now is like walking into

just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with a

you and

about me. Could it be that you've fallen for me?" Sebastian

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed and turned to

"Mr. Wilder, if Ms. Gardner says so, then

Mr. Wilder. There's always hope as long as you're alive. With your talent, you're destined to become a peerless force in the future. Just bide your time," Abigail added, trying

up. No more advice,

shook their heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to his doom.

was festive and filled with

great respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to

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

was beaming. To have Heather a woman both

and touched

Sebastian.

had been keeping tabs on

report just at that moment, "Mr. Camden,

enters. Make sure he doesn't escape," Camden ordered

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

"By the way, has

today. But with the family's third elder and the seventh elder here, dealing with that brat will be

nodded again in

and

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

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

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

isn't exactly a dragon's lair. Why wouldn't

playing dumb. Since you've come today,

today next year will be your death

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

came here to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet,

"I invited

he came to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden

Camden would never let him live.

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

engagement party. Killing

care about such things. If you want to live today, the only way is to

his smile was

grew furious. "What are you

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

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

This guy must

a slim chance to live. But

Everyone nodded in agreement.

third elder, Trey Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking ready to strike Sebastian down at

unbothered. "Mr. Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking the

been practicing

cultivation technique, one that

energy

One day, shevited

her room, and tried to seduce

"Shut up!"

Sebastian while

just slandering Heather on purpose. You

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

do you

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

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

"Don't worry. No matter what he says, I

an evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me off a cliff.

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

Her first time was with me. If you don't believe me, you can have her checked. If I'm lying, you can

it all up! Even if

this guy has

she began to feel uneasy under his

ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth

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

releasing a powerful aura that felt as vast and

make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers said as their eyes filled

apprehensive. While they were also divine grandmasters, there

stage, whereas Septimus was a middle-stage

showed no fear. He smirked mockingly and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're a

you wish you were dead!" Camden snapped angrily. Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but

on her chest because

truth, Sebastian was just bluffing;

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing

Heather was

spouting lies! I swear I'll cut out

a fool, and he was infuriated by

major families of the southern region, with all their

divine grandmaster. His power was

he made his move, the pressure from his released aura alone made

of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could do; they were powerless to stop the Stonebrook

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

a resounding sound, Septimus' arm

pained scream and staggered

a swift movement, Sebastian chased him down

"What?"

middle- stage divine grandmaster like

was

most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian

ordinary person, perhaps at most a warrior. After all, if

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

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

his eyes filled

Kaitlyn stepped forward. "Mr. Camden, can you do me a favor? I'll

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

close distance, Camden found her even more enticing than he had

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

out his own eyes, and breaks both his hands, I'll spare his

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

is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone that left no

"Didn't I warn you? Why did you

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

your strength was so

Stonebrook

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

smiled lightly and replied, "Ms. Gardner, I appreciate your

not in the habit

know it's hard to accept, but

five miserably than to

but

hands was a fate worse than death.

at least Sebastian could die

"Septimus!"

the Stonebrook family erupted

as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how dare

satisfied until I torture you

cripple his cultivation for

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

Every footfall left a deep

truly unfathomable. He's probably at the late-stage divine

Trey has the ability to fight

is? He struck so quickly before; this is definitely

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a long sword

the sword and immediately drew it from its

blade resonated through the air, unleashing a wave of

surrounding temperature seemed to plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their hearts were quickly filled

Godslayer Blade of the

this sword, and

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

Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could

magical artifact, said to be a

Sebastian, empty-handed-what

her eyes, unable

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

that old scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian.

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

far surpassed

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

middle pinnacle stage of divine grandmaster Trey wielded the Godslayer Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged

few miles surged violently, creating an oppressive

with weaker cultivation slumped to

to capture Sebastian alive, so his

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

with cruelty. To try and stop

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

"How is this possible?"

present was equally stunned as they were unable to believe what they

hand! This is insane!" "What level is this

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

it over," Sebastian said calmly. With a slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go of the s go of the

if he was

nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not bad.

sword back!" Trey shouted in a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing

Sebastian. "You actually dared to kill two of our

smirked. "Either kill or be killed. If you think you can

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

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

You two really

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

"You're about to die, yet you still dare to shout at me.

to kill us?" Heather was

me, our family will never

but not me. You're nothing more than clowns. If you send one person to me, I'll kill that person. If you send two, I'll kill both of them.

end, his voice was thunderous, sending shivers down

one could believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring his intent to annihilate the Stonebrook

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

full of yourself! Our family has stood

Hand over the Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs.

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

dare!"

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

him with disdain. He took a step forward, releasing an overwhelming

weighed down on everyone present. Those below

to remain

Kill him!" Camden commanded

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

Instead, he

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

from the Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a single

of cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

to the ground, and her

Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her

the air, attempting to

Jonathan stepped forward to shield the nervous clerk and decided to let the matter drop, choosing

said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through the boutique's high-ceilinged

nodding so hard the tight bun at the back of her

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

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

stepped between danger and the child, the day would have ended

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

small, practiced smile-courteous, almost

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

drew out a sleek matte card. Holding

a clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened, and the boutique fell into stunned

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

uncertainty flickering across her eyes

of this scale required his guardian's word.

an entire rack of adult clothing, yet he trusted the

course," she said, nearly breathless

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

other employees watched, envy shining through their

cover the down payment

more.

understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared

guided Nathaniel

“Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or two pieces back? Together

over eight million." s

Ivy would never have taken a job at a boutique

firm as bedrock. "I'm

he offered no objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's

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

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

Ivy, I truly appreciate everything you did

set

toward Ivy. With a flourish worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the mannequin. "Consider

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

of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's

apairof

his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that,

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

loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and

thigh, and asked, "What business did you have

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

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

unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy certainly

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

mood darkened like

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

believed the first fib, it was only

Jonathan appeared more like an

would never delegate adult shopping to a

figured something out,

blinked,

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

the realization sent a tremor of

dark lashes lifting so

and forced a civil smile. "Why would I

you completely. That

shut.Am

where did you

face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as if stating

on his chest. If even a child could read him,

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

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

the corridor, she almost collided

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

been? And what on earth is all

on inspecting

smoothly. "Holiday

excuse had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching

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

bewildered. When have I ever been

cleared his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding

resigned himself to carrying the

skimping on water

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

let me take you to a doctor, all right? You're far too little to struggle with something like

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

cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly

imagining the confession would buy him this

Cecilia had hugged him like

I'll be fine if I drink

model child, obedient, courteous,

do. Maybe we should buy

with earnest gravity, the way surgeons

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

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

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

and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's

time they reached home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia

If you're not sure how to use them, I

plastic-wrapped suppositories,

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

can manage on my

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

pitying him. So young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If it lasted, a doctor's visit would be

she said, voice

"Okay."

contraband and bolted down

brother's

doesn't look it," Elliot muttered

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

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

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

take

one, she handed them to the excited boy and

the little photoshoot ended,

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

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

elderly couple, in return, video-called often to

seemed to find its rhythm

able to come back for a visit?" Bethany asked,

Cecilia now belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities

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

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

Bethany for a good while longer, then finally

outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their beds,

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

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

"Ceci."

jerked in surprise.

doing today?" His

What do you mean?" Confusion

Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing," he

Cecilia finally read the room. Something inside

eclipsing her earlier cheer. "What's

a single step closer, the scent of cedar

could

arms

swift, possessive motion,

as though staking a claim

have to

voice came out rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every syllable vibrating through

Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened

If Elliot or Jonathan walks out

her hair

about two married people holding each other? They're

she muttered, "Not babies? They're

when I moved overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low, laced with

past her irritation. "You left the country that

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

little, Nathaniel. Besides, Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still

།

assign a full team to watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let him stay with Old Mr.

hand, the pad of his finger brushing her burning

"Hmm?"

paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like I'm

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

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

darkened, a storm gathering

arms and bolted down the hallway, bare feet whispering

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

Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel,

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

a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her up

deadbolt turned, and

winter wind hissed against the windows,

light, snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting the room in

eyes to find Nathaniel's face less than an inch away.

trace a finger over that faint roughness, then lower to

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open, hazy with

drawing her even closer until her breath

Her voice came out in a whisper, pressed tight between

again, and sighed. "Stay.

friends a full day of window-shopping

and mumbled, "Give

he could be, warmth

this attached? I never noticed

mouth. "I was younger. Didn't know

dark strands springing up

moving. I have a busy day

after you hit the mall with your friends,

head. "That's

you buying?” he asked,

New clothes for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa

carried a note of suspicion wrapped in

"Nope."

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

pried her fingers loose,

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

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

rose, padded through quiet hallways, and

1.

Jon and Elliot off

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

think the Wolfsbane

grin widened. "Baroness Wolfsbane," he called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with half a brain

went pale, then burned red. He

hands trembled on the table. Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and

was Alex-the outcast,

But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve,

this

you!

The room fell silent.

"Don't worry, Grandma," she said.

flashing Beatrix a smug

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

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

embarrassment of this family!

the Wolfsbane family is great enough that even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's

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

"No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal, that's all! I'm

already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism,

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

mocking sound that filled the room. "Then let's make this interesting. What if she does succeed? Want

think I'm scared? Name your

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

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

half-smile. "Then let's

suddenly chimed in, "Count me in too! If I

on her, raising a brow. "Alright. But

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

you love calling me a half-slave, how about this—if you

really digging

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

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

the bet and sent the document to

said. "I like it when

She couldn't care less about

one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could actually secure

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

the way home, Sofina frowned, glancing out the window. "You really think Grandma trusts me

smirked. "Trust?

him a look. "That's

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

bet on your victory. Isn't that

a brow. "You really think this bet

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

crossed her arms. "And what if you

finally fit right in with this

seat, clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night

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

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

wheel. "Maybe it's

you the future deputy of the Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother and mother

can."

at him. "You really think this

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

her head, half anxious, half amused. "I wish I had

need it," Alex said, his grin widening. "You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon;

softened as the car descended toward the Eden Group's towering headquarters,

Sofina whispered

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

QUMS

nerves eased. She

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

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

with them was like a beggar asking a banker to lend him the

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

felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all dressed

huddled in quiet conversations, their voices low but tense, each waiting for their turn to be

Group. The sight said

all every one

of them was hono

a coffaboration with power.

What on earth are you doing here?" a voice

found Heinrich standing with Katarina

Katarina's lips tightened the way a judge's did

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

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 worthy-none

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

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

the

hand clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging her

pulled on his gloves, and strode out

the floor, gathering a pile of scattered papers. He knelt beside

he said quietly, helping her pick

"It's Heinrich. No matter what I say, he just slips

Alex asked, gently lifting her chin,

nothing serious," she

don't need to print everything. The

I like the feel of paper. I like touching

his chest. "The same way I

"You

"You cooked for me, you looked at me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes

each other as they walked back through

voice cracked

you doing here? I told you

The color

invisible chain that still tied

Her body tensed, eyes

himself between Sofina and

is Eden Group," Alex said. "You're a guest. You have

lips curled. "A gardener telling me how to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like a king. Where's your

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

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." Heinrich's eyes found a nearby figure. "Manager Wedell!"

head of human resources, hurried over and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an

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

no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove

man. Your gardener. He insulted me

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

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

to forget your

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

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and beg for

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

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

if he's not

he doesn't, he deserves your respect. You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel before

said calmly, shaking

fired if

known each other a long time. Just

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

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

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

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

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

smirked and turned

my attention, haven't

fool who doesn't know his place. How about you kneel

Three bows, and I might forgive

tightened around Alex's

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

have the

Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing

s

grabbed him tighter and shook her

steady. "Let me handle

face. She

Sofina stepped

hit me, bitch-" He spat

curse.

God's name do you think

Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her, give

upright, supporting him with a hand at the

Mister Heinrich. I've called security. Twenty lashes. She won't be standing after that her flesh will

a

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

sneered. "The one who'll

"Security — attend. Punish this

his head. "I

crowd began

hit Heinrich," someone

you know Heinrich's the man everyone

another

scan, threat

system flagged a threat to her, an alert raced

in the room expected-Eve, the household

wired her into his network

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

the previous command.

robot optical sensors

The shock hit him like a thrown rope;

security robot drew an

skin opened, and dark lines of blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut

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

tech is already the most advanced," someone muttered, half

confusion

until Dietrich had

it hauled him to his feet and kicked him out, shoving him past the main

mind struggling to catch up with

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

voice low and venomous. "I'll teach you

lunged toward her, his hand swinging through the

wasn't the first time. Heinrich had struck

it, not because she was weak,

and seized his arm. "Find someone

let go of

under a hard lid.

screamed like an animal, pain folding him in on

hand that

go! How dare you let me go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet

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

-

finished presenting their offer - a bid to replace the

the next

they were

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

main hall, the polished calm of her diplomacy shattered.

down, and

white with fury. She stormed over and slapped Alex

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

Heinrich's arm. "Calling the police

true?" Katarina

Sofina. She hit my

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

real power. The

immigrant struck a noble, the punishment could be death.

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

protected rank, not

struck a commoner, most people just accepted

Prussia — power didn't need

her sharp

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

frowned. "No. I won't divorce her. Go ahead

have to be

this for you and for your Sant Claire family.

his face. "Do you

That everyone just

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

sound of her voice gave him a headache. He took Sofina's

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

she'd discovered something she wouldn't admit —

him.

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

everything was cold and transactionaChapter

didn't want to face

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

turned and found her staring at him, fierce and cold, while his other arm still held

to stop, Alex,"

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

my wife anymore. I don't owe you a damn thing. I don't answer to your orders. We're strangers

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

trembled — a flash of tears she fought

command you

this bitch!" Katarina

of Alex without hesitation. Her eyes were quiet, but they held frost.

Sofina caught it in one swift move

"You're his ex- don't touch him

obedience. She had been treated like royalty,

heard the whispers

title was bought

stabbing their own marquis, the

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

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

will and some Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They moved to strike to humiliate

hand, a silver Eden security robot glided

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

attackers jerked, their muscles seized, and they dropped hard to the floor,

fighting. No violence," the security unit repeated. "Please remain

unmoored robbed, for the moment, of the power she'd

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

get out of here," she said, pulling

like a whip. "You always talked about love! You

promised to obey me, to give me your

love begins to rot and fade, it hides behind forced gestures-empty rituals, hollow vows, or

another android

"this is your scheduled interview for the collaboration. Please proceed to Meeting Room 01. I

hand. “Go,” he said quietly. "This is

you?" she asked,

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

whispered, then followed the android down the corridor. The robot stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The

door opened and a poised woman in a tailored suit stepped in. "Miss

been a change in location. Please follow me. Miss Von Adler would like to meet you in her

"Miss Von

ma'am. She's

dazed, and followed the woman through

Group

Von Adler-the most powerful woman in

proposal yet, the one about working with the Wolfsbane family. She wasn't supposed to

It didn't make sense.

the assistant through the long corridor, her heels echoing off the marble floor, until they stopped in front of a taff metal door engraved with the Eden

chairwoman of Eden

her hand. "I'm Marlena Von

before the most powerful businesswoman in Winchester-someone people

slightly as she answered, but she kept her

met

Thank you for taking the time to see me," she said. "I came to discuss the

but we

never disappoint."

to .net

neat folder. "This is the Wolfsbane Group portfolio.

take a look."

smiled—a calm, knowing smile and took the file.

few pages, then closed

"I've already

stunned. "Really? You mean... it's approved?"

out.

felt too quick-too easy. She had spent weeks

possible question, expecting a long negotiation. And yet here it

in seconds.