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."

"Sean deserved to die, but I don't believe he acted alone. If it wasn't her, then it must've been you." Sebastian turned his gaze te Martin, his eyes full of killing

intent.

belongs to s

Feeling a wave of fear, Martin quickly denied, "It wasn't me! I had nothing to do with it."

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

"Are you trying to turn us against each other? How vicious!" Martin shouted angrily.

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

cruel than simply killing them both.

the survivor would live

talk. I'm giving you one minute

were full of fear and

words. He didn't want to die, but he also couldn't bear to lose his

us go, and just name your

"Alright. I'll give

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

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

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

pay!" Martin gritted his teeth, feeling

amount of gold, Sebastian only asked for gold

ten notes, each worth 100 thousand gold

his word and left after

because he was merciful, but because he wanted to take his time to

leaving Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick to

like to ask

no need to be

healed his wounds, which saved his life, but

Hendrick considered a second chance

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

find someone." Sebastian requested paper and

a professional artist, his drawing

woman in the picture your

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

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

but after seeing the portrait, her confidence

in the

her

explained the circumstances and timing

I'll send people to find her immediately. I'm sure we'll have news

Sebastian stayed at the chamber, waiting for updates.

to arrange for some people to

he assigned Brork to protect her in

power first hand, Brork didn't

was

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

I just can't swallow

asked, "Are you

Camden is

this marriage today and then ask the Stonebrook

then stepped out to greet

had arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance

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

years old. Though his appearance was average, he had an impressive presence; this was Camden Stonebrook, the heir to

our humble Knott Estate," Martin said with a flattering

you're

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

your daughter is as beautiful as a

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

it's impolite to keep staring at Ms. Knott. Apologize

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

She was not angry at all. In

If Heather could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would

advance by leaps and bounds, making it only

among the four

Denzel smiled a

"My

once not long

love at first sight for

lost

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

his hands, and the servants immediately

by a box of 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

a box of top-grade

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

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

body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and greatly enhance a

their constitution, accelerated their

you satisfied

satisfied,

that mean you agree to

responded, "Of course. Mr. Camden is a remarkable man. For him to be interested

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

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

strength is formidable

could cause trouble

"It's a scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder.

commoner.

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

he took advantage of the situation and insisted I take off my clothes before he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had

mind, we can call off the engagement, Mr.

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

Heather. I don't mind. It wasn't

you for understanding," Heather

her clever strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the Stonebrook family's

she hoped to handle

my reputation, I agreed to marry him. But what I never

as we got engaged, he demanded that I

that kind of woman and naturally refused him. He then tried to force himself on

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

Even my father couldn't defeat him," Heather

under 30 years old.

their skills, their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and

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

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

is definitely

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

Heather and Camden's engagement

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

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

Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with

test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level

with boundless

talent compensated for her comparatively

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

admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their hopes

heard the news, but he paid it no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he

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

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

wanted to stockpile pills now to boost the cultivation of

breaks periodically to rest. One

Wilder, Heather and Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at

One of them is for me, I

nodded. "Yes,

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

"Mr. Wilder, are

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

don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their invitation is

in agreement. "My father is right. You mustn't go.

right into their

clowns.

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your

clowns. They're

leave me alone, fine. If they

ie

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

added, "Mr. Wilder, please listen to

cook up something

them sooner rather than

group approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a

dressed in a colorful gown, with a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it

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

Sebastian nodded.

to kill you at the banquet. Going there now is

just to tell me this?" Sebastian

run into you and thought I'd give you a friendly warning," Kaitlyn

so much about me. Could it be

Kaitlyn scoffed and

if Ms. Gardner says so, then it's surely true. Why don't we

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

up. No

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

Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled with

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

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

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

body had already been seen and touched by Sebastian

Sebastian.

keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and his subordinate

that moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian has

Make sure he doesn't

won't be able to get away, even if

satisfaction. "By the way, has my

subordinate reported, "Mr. Denzel head ran into some issues and likely won't make it today. But with the family's

again in

moment, Sebastian and his companions entered Knott

here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when

family's plan, yet he still showed up. Was he walking into his own

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

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

Since you've come today, don't expect

smile. "Brat, today next

a chance. If you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out your own eyes, and break your own hands, I'll

hand and said, "You invited me to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate you,

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

came to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden would

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

Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything

is your engagement party.

If you want to live today, the only way is to do as I

this, Sebastian laughed and his smile was full of

are you

and said, "Mr. Camden, I really don't get it. There are so many good

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

it. This guy

have had a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now he's probably wishing

Everyone nodded in agreement.

and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They

just yet. Hear me out.

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

One day, shevited me

Estate, lured me into her

"Shut up!"

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

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

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

evidence do you

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

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

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

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

laughed angrily. "To slander my woman right in

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

it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence,

"Camden, this guy has ulterior motives.

and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he wondered,

stop standing around and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or not, he had

planned to verify everything as soon as the engagement banquet

approached Sebastian, releasing a powerful aura that felt as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it hard for

of a divine grandmaster? Just the aura alone is enough to make me almost

Korbin and Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they were also divine

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

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

tell me to

scratch marks on her chest because

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

However, Heather's reaction

stunned. Upon realizing she

tricked, Heather

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

a fool, and he was infuriated

major families of the southern region, with all their

a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power was

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

with worry. But there was

as quickly as lightning as his hand reached out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered, reacting faster

resounding sound, Septimus' arm shattered

out a pained

swift movement, Sebastian chased him

"What?"

was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated

strength was beyond

most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian had

warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster

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

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

his

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

Although her face was hidden,

distance, Camden found her even more enticing than he had imagined. He

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

his own eyes, and breaks both his hands,

Camden, isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking his hands

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

turned to Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I

isn't some death trap. Why shouldn't

Kaitlyn said, "I didn't realize your strength

Stonebrook family

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

lightly and replied, "Ms. Gardner, I

in the habit

know it's hard to accept, but

five miserably than

something, but in the end,

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

were slim, at least Sebastian could die

"Septimus!"

the Stonebrook family erupted

was seething with rage as he shouted,

I won't be satisfied

his cultivation for

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

Every footfall left a deep imprint on the

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

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

cultivation is? He struck so quickly before; this is definitely going to be a fierce

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Camden shouted,

the sword and immediately drew it from its sheath. A sharp,

air,

everyone feeling as though they had fallen into

the Godslayer

family's Godslayer Blade. Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with it, they rarely met an equal. As long as one wields the Godslayer Blade,

was stunned. They hadn't expected Camden to

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

to be a top-tier weapon that could

here was Sebastian, empty-handed-what

unable to bear watching Sebastian's

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

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

feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever

that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't need

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

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

surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere

cultivation slumped

Sebastian alive, so his sword's target

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

with cruelty. To try and

blade made contact with Sebastian's palm. However, instead of the expected sight of blood and

"How is this possible?"

Everyone present was equally

his bare hand! This is insane!" "What level is

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

calmly. With a slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go of the

was jolted by

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

Trey shouted in a mix of anger and

actually dared to kill two of our family's elders! Do

you think you can kill me, I can also

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

are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the

two really are made for each

calling idiots? You're the idiot! Your whole family

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

really plan to kill

if you dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not just you, but everyone you care about will pay

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

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

into silence. No one could believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring his intent

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

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

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

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

you dare!"

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

at him with disdain. He took a step

oppressive force weighed down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level

the grandmasters struggled to remain standing, their legs

him!" Camden commanded

filled with terror, they had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting their teeth, they rushed toward

join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos to

was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent

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

The

was terrifying.

collapsed to the ground, and

moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her

into the air, attempting

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

nothing like this will ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of

blurted, nodding so hard the tight bun

once Nathaniel turned away did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through

whim. Grateful, she offered a quick,

stepped between danger and the child, the day

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

almost grown-up, impossibly composed for a

should be the one thanking

out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he

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

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

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

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

wanted an entire rack

Ivy's expression. "Of course," she said, nearly

from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags with

the showroom, the other employees watched, envy shining through their

the down payment on a new

more.

Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal Ivy's triumph,

Ivy guided Nathaniel

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

over eight million." s

her, Ivy would never have taken a job at a boutique this

said, firm as

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

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

the card with

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

set

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

marble. "Pass it on to whatever gentleman keeps

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

apairof

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

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

like silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and ribbon-tied

to reach his thigh, and asked,

Kennedy wanted me to pop in and pick out a

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

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

curled inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes

darkened like

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

first fib, it was

more like

Cecelia? She would never delegate adult

sharpened. "You've figured

blinked,

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

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

theatrical sigh. “Are you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes could study

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

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

mouth opened, then snapped shut.Am

throat. “And exactly where did you pick up

across your face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as if stating simple

a weight on his chest. If even a child could read him, how had Cecilia never noticed? She really

the restroom door stayed shut far

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

almost collided

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

you two been? And what on earth

stepped forward, intent on inspecting the

said smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing

so Nathaniel was patching the hole as

heads-up would have been nice. I was starting

Jonathan gaped, utterly bewildered. When have

throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding flashed

to carrying the constipation story on

been skimping on water lately," Jon

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

me take you to a doctor, all right?

him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch of discomfort

without warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly as a stovetop

problem, never imagining the confession would buy him this

since Cecilia had hugged him like

drink more water. It isn't that

always been the model child,

unwilling to yield. "That won't do. Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation sometimes needs glycerin

earnest gravity, the

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

I don't need them,” he whispered, the words

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

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

a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the

embarrassed. If you're not sure how to

suppositories,

near this particular battlefield. He

can manage

She ruffled his hair, every gesture

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

to the bathroom with you," she said, voice

"Okay."

like contraband and

plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and,

He sure doesn't look it," Elliot muttered

a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease your brother.

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

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

to take tons of super-cool

she handed them to the excited boy

photoshoot ended, she pinged

smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the sorrow hovering behind

clips of the boys

often to check on the children

seemed to find

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

so her

"Nathaniel and I have decided. We'll come right

Your grandpa and I will prepare every one of

for a good while longer, then finally

and Elliot

and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick of

back against the couch, eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five minutes of

"Ceci."

surprise. "What is

this all we're doing today?" His question

you

Nathaniel's eyes.

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

earlier cheer. "What's

single step closer, the scent of cedar from

could speak

long arms swept out

swift, possessive motion,

chest, as though staking a claim no one

have to

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

Cecilia's face. Her blush

it, let me go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks

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

could be awkward about two married people holding each other?

she muttered, "Not babies? They're

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

brows arched, genuine amazement slipping past her

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

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

།

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

a hand, the pad of his finger brushing her

"Hmm?"

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

proud, composed husband was jealous of his own

before she could suppress it. "Of course, the kids outrank you. I risked my life to bring them into

storm gathering behind the

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

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

Cecilia reached the bedroom and tried to swing the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the

harder on the door. "There are plenty of

no match for his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her

turned, and darkness

winter wind hissed against the windows, but

came in a burst of white light, snow glare slicing through

face less than an inch

faint

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open,

her even closer

came

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

promised her best friends a full day of window-shopping

mumbled, "Give me a few

realize how clingy he could be, warmth and weight wrapped

when were you this attached?

tugged at his mouth.

and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing

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

"Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends, that's

head. "That's

he asked, still

for Mom, and something nice

carried a note of suspicion

"Nope."

puzzled tilt of her head. He had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this

her fingers loose,

He just hates it when I leave too quickly. With

once the door clicked shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the

through quiet hallways, and

1.

Elena had spirited Jon and Elliot off

crap because you're an idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking

Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had

Wolfsbane," he called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with half a brain for daring

burned red. He

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

it was Alex-the outcast, the

Sofina. She'd never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the old woman's heart

least this

Every last one of you! From

The room fell silent.

stood. "Don't worry, Grandma," she said. "I'll

flashing Beatrix a smug

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

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

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

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

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

flinched and waved her hands fast. "No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal, that's all! I'm being

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

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

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

You think I'm

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

teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want both

a half-smile. "Then let's

in too! If I win, I want

on her, raising a brow. "Alright. But

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

grin widened. "Since you love calling me a half-slave, how about this—if you lose, you kneel ten

You're really digging your own grave, loser! Fine-I'll take

Felicia said. "If you lose,

I win, you'll accept our marriage-

already recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's official

said. "I

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

the Wolfsbane family could actually secure that collaboration

three days to negotiate

window. "You really

"Trust? No.

a look. "That's supposed to make

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

at least I bet on

"You really think this bet will

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

arms. "And what

right in

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

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

the car's polished hood, “we should

resting on the wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy

Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother

can."

glancing at him. "You really think this is

on our way up. And when this is

half anxious, half

Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you

toward the Eden Group's towering

whispered

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

QUMS

eased. She wished she could

something empty out inside her-like a room with the

god. The idea that the

with them was like a beggar asking a banker

She'd accepted the challenge in front of the whole house. There was no

her pace. The lobby felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by

in quiet conversations, their voices low but tense,

Group. The sight

all every one

of them was hono

a coffaboration

you doing here?" a

found Heinrich standing

the

sentence.

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

hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't

Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided into the

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

the footage,"

robot projected the recording. Heinrich's hand clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging her down the hallway while papers scattered

pulled on his gloves, and strode out

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

helping her pick them

shook her head, frustrated. "It's Heinrich. No matter what I say, he just slips back

you?" Alex asked, gently lifting

serious,"

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

I like the feel of paper. I like touching something

chest. "The same way I like touching

"You really

like I was more than data in

back through the glass corridor

voice cracked

Heinrich barked, stepping forward. "What the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I don't

froze. The color drained from her

invisible chain that still tied her

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

himself between Sofina and

Group," Alex said. "You're a

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

dreaming. You're not a king- you're just another arrogant

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

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

But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out. Frankly, Eden Group doesn't feel

one here would deliberately offend you. If

Heinrich said coldly. "That's the 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.

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

forget your place. I'm Dietrich

fire you anytime I want. Now,

Kneel and beg

one who tried to throw out

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

if he's not joining?" Alex

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

shaking his

fired if

darkly. "Come on, Alex. We've known each other a long time. Just

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

gather, drawn by the rising tension.

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

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

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

Winchester? No wonder

smirked and

you've been desperate for my

who doesn't know his place. How

Three bows, and I might forgive

tightened around Alex's arm, her

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

have the

be nothing outcasts.

s

but Sofina grabbed him tighter

steady. "Let

face. She met his eyes. "Trust

Sofina stepped

"You hit me, bitch-" He spat the word like

curse.

do you think you're doing, bitch!" Dietrich

inside Eden Group! Security robot -

supporting him with a hand at the small of

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

syllable a command. "Give her what she

"You'd better cancel that order," he said. "Someone's going to get hurt

one who'll get hurt is

"Security — attend.

tilted his head.

crowd began to

she hit

Heinrich's

another voice

and ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses

threat to her, an alert

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

had wired her into his network bridge so she could talk to every

that touched Sofina reported to Eve first-she was

into the network. "Override the previous command. Secure Dietrich and

optical

it into Dietrich's chest. The

could process it, security robot drew an electric whip

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

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

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

ripple of confusion moved through

robot didn't stop until Dietrich had

feet and kicked him out, shoving him

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

He wiped the blood away with the back of his wrist,

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

his hand swinging

wasn't the first time. Heinrich had struck Sofina

she was weak, but

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

— let go of me!"

his temper under a hard lid. The

his grip until Heinrich screamed like an animal, pain

knees, clutching at a hand that felt as if

go! How dare you let me go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on his cheeks as the

stepped out of the Eden Group meeting room like a storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the marble floor with sharp precision,

-

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

the next family tied to

were desperater

Heinrich would

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

holding Heinrich down,

white with fury. She stormed over and slapped

go this instant. How dare you strike him until he bleeds-I'll call the

Heinrich's arm. "Calling the police won't help

that true?"

was Sofina. She hit my

herself steady. "So what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if you want-try

still carried real

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

and swift. More often than not, the blame settled on the

law protected rank,

people just accepted it. That

power didn't need to explain

her sharp

jealous, to get my attention. Well, you've got it. I

divorce

don't have to be

and for your Sant Claire family. When im done with Heinrich, if you behave yourself, I'll

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

That everyone just spins around

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

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

voice cracked with fury and desperation. She had

she'd discovered something she wouldn't admit —

him.

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

Heinrich, everything was cold

moment. He didn't want to face

could take another

at him, fierce and cold, while

stop, Alex," Katarina

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

anymore. I don't owe you a damn thing. I don't answer to your orders. We're strangers now-so

The slap cracked through the hall like a gunshot. "Don't you dare

flash of tears she fought to hide, gripping him

command

bitch!" Katarina

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

Sofina caught it in one swift move

ex- don't touch him again.

been treated like

heard the

the Rosenheim title was

stabbing their own marquis, the

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

her voice shaking with fury. "She's spitting on my family name! Slap

Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They

security robot glided between them, its

property," it announced

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

violence," the security unit repeated. "Please remain calm and

and unmoored robbed, for the moment, of

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

get out of here," she

Katarina's voice cracked like a whip. "You always talked about love! You

trembling with rage. “You promised to obey me, to give me your body, to destroy yourself for me!

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

answer, another android glided up

Please proceed to Meeting Room 01. I

Alex squeezed her hand. “Go,” he said quietly.

you?" she asked, her voice

authorized personnel can access it. These people won't

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

and a poised woman in a tailored suit stepped

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

blinked. "Miss Von Adler? The

ma'am. She's

and followed the

Group headquarters. Her

powerful woman in Eden-want

even submitted her proposal yet, the one about working with the Wolfsbane family. She wasn't supposed to meet the chairman, only the department manager

It didn't make sense.

she didn't understand why, Sofina knew an opportunity like this didn't come twice. She followed the assistant through the long corridor, her heels echoing off the marble floor, until they stopped in front of a taff metal

Von Adler-the legendary chairwoman of Eden Group-rose gracefully from behind her desk. Her presence filled the room like a

Von Adler, chairman of Eden Group. It's a pleasure to meet

race. She was standing before the most powerful businesswoman in Winchester-someone people usually

as she answered,

met

to see me," she said. "I came to discuss the collaboration proposal. I know the Wolfsbane

we

never disappoint."

to .net

"This is the Wolfsbane Group portfolio.

take a look."

knowing smile and took the

a few pages, then

Scheinwald," she said, her voice soft but sure, "I've already reviewed your documents. I believe you're the

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

out.

quick-too easy. She had spent weeks

possible question, expecting a long

in seconds.

her expression unreadable but

honest," she said, "the Wolfsbane Group doesn't fully meet our usual standards. But our founder hold's your very

breath caught. "Your founder?" she

know

curved into a faint smile. “Our founder," she said

unsure if she'd heard

"Don't worry. You'll understand when the time comes.

he sees something in you. He believes in you. And

instructed her not to reveal his identity, and she obeyed without

professional calm. "Now, Miss Scheinwald, according to your proposal,

that's right," she said, her voice small. "Is... is

said easily. "In fact, it's less than what we planned to

frowned slightly. "What

founder instructed me to increase the

at one hundred

eyes widened, her breath

repeated, barely believing it.

retrieved a crisp contract, and slid it across the

already drafted the agreement-one hundred million dollars in total.

in disbelief. Her

in

hard on Finnian's back. "I forbid you from seeing her! If you dare bring that woman home as your wife, I'll throw