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 with

one minute to

eyes were full of

didn't want to die,

us go, and just name your price- anything

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

Why don't you just rob

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

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

gritted his teeth, feeling as if his

amount of gold, Sebastian only asked

Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100 thousand

his word and left after receiving

hadn't intended to kill Martin and Heather-not because he was merciful, but because he wanted to take his

Sebastian followed Hendrick to

like to ask you for a

to be so formal. Just tell me what you

not only healed his wounds, which saved his life, but

debt that Hendrick considered a second chance at

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

someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then

Sebastian wasn't a professional artist, his drawing

Wilder, is the woman in the picture your wife?" Abigail

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

was hard not to admire

herself, but

in the drawing

her own beauty.

circumstances and timing

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

the chamber,

to arrange for some people to take

he assigned Brork to protect her in

first hand, Brork didn't dare to

single word of refusal. He was

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

I just can't swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter

asked, "Are

without hesitation, "Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of course I'm

then. We'll settle this marriage today and then ask the Stonebrook family to

then stepped out

arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance of betrothal

Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and

him was a young man of about 26 years old. Though his appearance was average, he had an impressive presence; this was Camden Stonebrook, the

graces our

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

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

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

appeared slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes

to keep staring at

quickly stood up,

not angry at all.

Heather could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would be like a shortcut to soar to higher

to the Stonebrook family's cultivation resources, her strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only a matter of time before

place among the four great

Denzel smiled a

"My

Knott once not long

first

he lost

his appetite and many.

As his father, I became anxious, soove brought

Cóntent

was done speaking, he clapped his hands, and the servants immediately

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

box, though smaller, contained dozens

include 880 thousand gold coins, a box of

all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880

was not enough, making them extremely scarce in the market. When

physical constitution, extend

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

said proudly, "Mr. Knott, are you satisfied with the Stonebrook family's

satisfied, actually,"

agree

man. For him to be interested in my daughter is

inside. With the future title of

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

is formidable and who is extremely arrogant. It's

could cause trouble for

interjected, "It's a scoundrel named Sebastian

commoner.

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

insisted I take off my clothes before he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not just to reveal how

we can call off

light crossed Camden's eyes. "I heard about this

worry, Heather. I don't mind. It wasn't your

Heather forced out

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

up herself, she hoped

But what I never expected was that the scoundrel was

as we got engaged, he demanded that

refused him. He then tried to force himself on me, but luckily, I

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

is very strong. Even my father couldn't defeat him," Heather

under 30 years old. How could he be stronger than

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

may look like he's in his 20s, but his real

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

age is definitely

just an early-stage divine grandmaster? That's

Heather and Camden's engagement spread quickly,

families of the southern region, Camden would typically only marry

Estate, it was still far from matching the prestige of

seem that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the daughters of the four

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

a genius with boundless potential and

talent compensated

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

who secretly admired Heather, were equally

the news, but he paid it no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty

a million gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in a vast amount of herbs for pill

the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by stealth

to boost the cultivation of those around

refinement was an exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One day, after finishing his pill refinement session,

Heather and Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've sent over an invitation," Hendrick

invitations? One of them is for me,

"Yes,

was nothing more than an

Wilder, are

I don't go, wouldn't

quickly said, "Mr. Wilder, I think it's best if you don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their invitation is definitely not sincere it's clear they

father is right.

right into their

bunch of petty clowns. There's

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

unmoved. "I appreciate your concern,

just clowns. They're not worth

If

ie

one of the four major families in the southern region, even

"Mr. Wilder, please listen to us and

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

confront them sooner

entrance of Knott Estate, a woman

in a colorful gown, with a veil partially hiding her

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

Sebastian nodded.

the Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the

just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with

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

me. Could it be

scoffed and turned

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

your talent, you're destined to become a peerless force in the

No more

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

Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled with

the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending Korbin and

the end of today,

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

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

Sebastian.

been keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and his

just at that moment,

Make sure he doesn't escape," Camden

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

in satisfaction. "By the way, has my father

into some issues and likely won't make it today. But with the family's third elder and the seventh elder here, dealing with that brat

nodded again

that moment, Sebastian and his companions

Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he

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

you bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I can't decide if I should

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

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

"Brat, today next year will be your death

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

to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet, here you are, shouting threats.

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

came to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden would let him go. He must

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

aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done

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

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

this, Sebastian laughed and his smile was

furious. "What are you laughing at,

There are so many good women out there. Why on

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

This guy must be

might have had a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now he's probably wishing for death to be an easy way

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth. You don't know how

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

One day, shevited

lured me into her

"Shut up!"

quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting nonsense and

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

This guy has slandered

do you

replied, "Why don't you let me finish what I was saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me, but I wasn't interested in her at all, so

to Camden and said, "Camden, he's lying! He's just upset that

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

and ended up sleeping with her. But what I didn't expect was that she was using an evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow.

right in front of me... you've got

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

up! Even if an examination proves my innocence,

"Camden, this guy has ulterior

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

Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the

everything as soon

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

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

experts like Korbin and Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster, significantly stronger

I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're

to shut

on her chest because I got a

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

However, Heather's reaction

everyone stunned. Upon realizing

tricked, Heather was

I swear I'll cut out your tongue

a fool, and he

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

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster.

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

concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But

reached out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered, reacting faster and landing a punch directly into

sound,

out a pained scream and staggered

Sebastian chased him down and grabbed Septimus by

"What?"

Everyone was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster

strength was

and Kaitlyn were the most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian had participated in the Netherworld Sect's

a warrior. After all,

stunned, then erupted in fury. "I've really underestimated you.

and enraged, and she yelled, "Sebastian, he's from the Stonebrook family! If you dare to kill

his eyes filled

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

Kaitlyn from the start. Although her face was hidden,

than he had imagined. He nodded and said, "I'll grant you

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

eyes, and breaks both his hands, I'll

isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking his hands a bit

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

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

place isn't some death trap.

didn't realize your strength was so

The Stonebrook

your hands is

and replied, "Ms. Gardner, I appreciate

not in the

hard to accept, but

to five miserably than to die.

something, but in

fate worse than death. Rather than living worse than a dog, it was better to

were slim, at

"Septimus!"

of the Stonebrook

with rage as he shouted,

I won't be satisfied until

his cultivation

order. He was already walking toward Sebastian,

footfall left

aura. Trey's cultivation must be truly unfathomable. He's probably at the late-stage

grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

shouted, tossing a long sword to

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

air, unleashing a wave of

though they had fallen

this be the Godslayer Blade of the Stonebrook

once roamed the world with this sword, and with it, they rarely met an equal. As long as one wields the Godslayer Blade, their combat strength

hadn't expected Camden to

even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand against

artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could slice through iron like

Sebastian,

closed her eyes, unable to

taken her virginity,

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

was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he

realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and

moment, she felt completely powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the

his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It seemed

within a few miles surged violently, creating

cultivation slumped to the ground while

Sebastian alive, so his

the blade was about to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved,

death!" Trey sneered, his expression filled with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with one's bare hand was

expected sight of blood and mangled flesh, the sword stopped

"How is this possible?"

eyes widened, filled with shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally

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

of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength, but it didn't budge

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

he was jolted by

"This sword is not bad. From now on, it's

in a mix of anger and panic, clenching his

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

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

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

anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top experts in the Southern

of idiots. You two really are

Your whole

dare to shout at me. If that's not

You really plan to kill

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

as he spoke. By the end, his

believe how

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

truly are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over a

house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live. Otherwise, I guarantee you won't even have a

not I end up in a grave,

you dare!"

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

He took a step forward, releasing

down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster

grandmasters struggled to remain standing, their

him!"

they had no choice but to obey

fray. Instead, he used the

wave of his hand, a tremendous energy burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and

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

of cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

and her face

rushed toward Heather. He grabbed

air, attempting to

shield the nervous clerk and decided to let the matter drop, choosing mercy over further

his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through the boutique's

hard the tight bun at

breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like

dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she

child,

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

a small, practiced smile-courteous, almost grown-up,

one thanking you," he replied, voice

a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added, "Every outfit you brought me earlier, I'll take them

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

Ivy had chosen started at well over ten thousand, yet

the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as

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

not understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult clothing, yet

expression. "Of course," she said, nearly breathless with

the garments from velvet hangers into satin-lined

other employees watched, envy shining through their fixed

cover the down payment on a

more.

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

Ivy guided Nathaniel

really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or two pieces back?

over eight million." s

hadn't asked her, Ivy would never have taken a job

firm as bedrock. "I'm

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

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

set. Thank you for choosing us." Ivy presented the card with

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

set

flourish worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the mannequin. "Consider this my gift, he said,

"Pass it on to whatever gentleman

swishing across her shoulders.

apairof

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,

had delivered a lightning-fast briefing about the ruckus that had erupChapter

crisp shirts, tailored

thigh, and asked, "What business did you have

Kennedy wanted me to pop in and pick out a few outfits for Uncle Zachary. This is

knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best

expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts you,"

small, sour note curled inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci never

mood darkened like

sensed the cloud. He reached out, hooked his tiny pinkie around Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty sure

Nathaniel had believed the first fib, it was only

like an

never delegate adult shopping

"You've figured

blinked, performing

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

be exposed so fast, and the realization sent

lashes lifting so his wide

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

and Elliot, but none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally direct in the way only children can

opened, then snapped shut.Am I

“And exactly where did you pick up

face, Dad.” Jon shrugged

expression tightened. The comment landed like a weight on his chest. If even a child could read him, how had Cecilia never noticed? She really doesn't care, does

restroom door stayed shut far

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

the corridor, she almost collided with Jonathan

trailing behind them, arms loaded with shopping bags

two been? And

intent on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel

smoothly.

painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching the hole

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

utterly bewildered. When have I

cleared his throat and shot Jonathan

resigned himself to carrying the

been skimping on

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

right? You're far

woman who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a

felt heat rush to his cheeks

the problem, never imagining the

ages since Cecilia had hugged him

if I drink more water. It isn't that

had always been the model child, obedient, courteous, eager

her head, unwilling to yield. "That won't do. Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation sometimes needs glycerin suppositories, doesn't

earnest gravity, the

twisted into silent misery. Great, sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you could invent, you picked constipation. Now Mom

he whispered, the words

boy and a glimmer of amused

and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's

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

you're not sure how to use them, I will help

me? Jonathan stared at the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like a stone in

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

Mommy. I can manage on my

course you can. You can handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every

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

she said,

"Okay."

like contraband and

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

sure doesn't look it," Elliot

a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease

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

“Come on,"

take tons of super-cool

by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back while he struck every

little photoshoot ended, she pinged

Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the

of the boys chasing sunlight across

couple, in return, video-called often

life seemed

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

now belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled

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

as you can. Your grandpa and I will prepare every

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

Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their beds, fast asleep

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

on

"Ceci."

in surprise.

we're doing today?" His

What do you mean?" Confusion knitted her

Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing,"

turned his head, letting the full weight of his displeasure sit plainly on his face. Cecilia finally read the room. Something inside Nathaniel was storming, evident

her earlier cheer. "What's the matter? Who

of cedar from his freshly

could

long arms swept

possessive

his chest, as though staking a claim no

really have to

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

her cheek. Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened as she tried to twist free,

me go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks out

her hair as if

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

"Not babies? They're only

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

past her irritation. "You left the country that

for

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

།

for Jonathan, let him stay

a hand, the pad of his finger

"Hmm?"

leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember,

proud, composed husband

"Of course, the kids outrank you. I risked

storm gathering behind the calm

and bolted down the

she would dare make a break for it, then

bedroom and tried to swing the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice low and teasing. "Why

harder on the door. "There are plenty of

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

turned, and darkness enveloped the

windows, but inside, heat pooled between their

of white light, snow glare slicing through the curtains

Nathaniel's face less than an inch away.

trace a finger over that faint roughness, then lower to the soft curve

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open,

her even

I can't breathe.” Her voice came out in a whisper, pressed tight between

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

best friends a full day of

"Give me a

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

you this attached? I

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

and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing up

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

caught her hand again. "Ceci, after you hit the mall

her head. "That's

you buying?” he asked,

New clothes for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa and

carried a note of suspicion wrapped in playful

"Nope."

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

heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose,

the words but misread the cause. He just hates it when I

behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like a weight on

quiet hallways, and stepped

1.

had spirited Jon and Elliot off to

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

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

widened. "Baroness Wolfsbane," he called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with half a brain for daring to ask for collaboration. Thought you

red. He

on the table. Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and

people, it was Alex-the outcast, the family fool-who stood up for

the girl. But seeing Sofina step

this one

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

The room fell silent.

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

his arms, flashing Beatrix a

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

this family up, while you bury it in arrogance and shame. You're

Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle worker? That

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

Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking your own grandmother's got half a brain? That she's

her hands fast. "No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make

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

"You're a fool if you think any of

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

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

you that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina pulls this

"Deal," she said through clenched teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want both of you out of the

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

"Count me in too! If I win, I

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

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

this—if you lose, you kneel

really digging your

"If you lose, I want you

I win, you'll accept our

the bet and sent the document to the government

smirked. "Perfect," he said. "I like it when everyone plays

them. She couldn't care

the Wolfsbane family could

roared. "Sofina, you have three days to negotiate and close the deal. That's all.

out the window. "You really

smirked. "Trust? No. Desperation?

"That's supposed to

comfort, talk to someone who hasn't met this

I bet on

a brow. "You really think this

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

crossed her arms. "And

chuckled. "Then I'll finally fit right in

Sofina sat in the passenger seat, clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired,

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

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

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

Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare buy you one, so let's enjoy it while

can."

"You

without looking away from the road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll have a new mansion to park

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

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

the Eden Group's towering headquarters, its glass walls gleaming

whispered as the

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

QUMS

moment, her nerves eased. She

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

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

a beggar asking a banker to

grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in

courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and

but tense, each waiting for

The sight

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration with

on earth are you doing here?"

and found Heinrich standing

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

sentence.

understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward and grabbed Sofina's wrist in a rough. "You're here to attract attention," he hissed. "I told you I won't give you

trying to fool? Even

uniform when a security drone glided into the room, humming

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

the footage," Alex

arm, dragging her down the hallway

pulled on his gloves, and strode out toward the

gathering a pile

helping her pick them

I say, he just slips back into his arrogant little

Alex asked, gently lifting her chin, checking for

nothing serious,"

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

smiled faintly. "Maybe. But I like the feel of

his chest. "The same way I

"You

me that," she said softly. "You cooked for me, you looked at me like I was more than data in

other as they walked back through the glass corridor

voice

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

The color drained

saw it-the invisible chain that

eyes flickering, as if waiting for

stepped forward, placing himself between Sofina

Group," Alex said. "You're a guest. You have no

here-l expect to be

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

sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener. When I'm finished, you'll be out of a job.” "You can

his arm. "Let's go. Don't give him anything. He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a nearby figure. "Manager Wedell!"

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

"I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me

courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted

gardener. He

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

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

forget your place.

fire you anytime I want. Now, you've

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and beg

should I? He's the one who tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't even belong

you have any idea who Heinrich Schiller is?

he's not joining?"

doesn't, he deserves your respect. You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I make sure you regret

shaking his

fired if

long time. Just kneel and

to me. Three kowtows, then maybe I'll let you

by the rising tension. Laughter rippled through

"A gardener trying to stand up to Heinrich? The man really doesn't know who he's

"That gardener's got a name. You

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

and turned

my attention,

Your husband's a fool who doesn't know his

instead? Three bows, and I might

hand tightened around Alex's arm,

sure everyone in Winchester hears about this. You

I'll have the whole

on you-even the Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing outcasts. And

s

him tighter and shook her head.

was soft but steady.

her face. She

stepped forward alone.Chapter

"You hit me, bitch-" He spat the

curse.

do you think you're doing, bitch!"

dare you strike Mister Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her, give her twenty lashes, then throw

supporting him with a hand at the small of

Twenty lashes. She won't be standing after that her flesh will tell

a command. "Give

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

who'll get hurt

his communication bracelet. "Security

tilted his head. "I

began

she hit

Heinrich's the man

another voice

glided forward and ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses swept over Sofina, cold

threat to her, an alert raced

the household robot

just a home machine. Alex had wired her into his network bridge so she could talk to every Eden

Any device that touched Sofina reported to

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

optical sensors swung toward

into Dietrich's chest. The shock hit him like

anyone could process it, security robot drew an electric whip from a holster and began lashing

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

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

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

ripple of confusion moved through the

stop until Dietrich had

it finished, it hauled him to his feet and kicked him out, shoving

frozen, her mind struggling to catch up

the blood away with the

bitch," he hissed, voice low and venomous. "I'll

his

time. Heinrich had struck

not because she was weak, but because she'd once mistaken her submission for

Heinrich and seized his arm. "Find someone your

let go

kept his temper under a hard lid. The government

like

a hand that felt as if

me go!" Heinrich gasped, tears

Her heels struck the marble floor with sharp precision, aides trailing behind her in nervous

-

family had just finished presenting their offer - a bid to

the next

were desperater

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

Katarina emerged into the main hall, the polished calm of her diplomacy shattered. What she

holding Heinrich down,

She stormed over and slapped

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

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

true?" Katarina asked

Sofina. She hit

what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing someone

still carried real

an immigrant struck a noble, the punishment could be

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

protected rank,

struck a commoner, most people just accepted it. That

Prussia — power didn't

her sharp eyes to

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

frowned. "No. I won't divorce

have to be

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

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

to you? That everyone just

"It's already a blessing that I'm even willing to marry

long gone. Just the sound of her voice gave him a headache.

voice cracked with

she'd discovered something she wouldn't admit — she

him.

still haunted her - the nights Alex cooked for her,

everything was cold and transactionaChapter

been dreading this moment. He didn't want

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

at him, fierce

told you to stop, Alex," Katarina said, every word

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

steel. "You're not my wife anymore. I don't owe you a damn thing.

hissed, and her hand whipped across his face. The

something else trembled — a flash of tears she fought to hide, gripping him with a desperation that made her

command you

bitch!"

hesitation. Her eyes were quiet, but they held frost.

hand tightened on Alex. Sofina caught it in

"You're his ex- don't touch him again. He isn't yours.

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

the whispers for

the Rosenheim title

earned their barony by stabbing their own marquis, the Saint- Claires, in

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

spitting on my family name! Slap her-make her remember who she is! And who I

some Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to prove

a hand, a silver Eden security robot glided between them,

property," it announced firmly. "Cease all hostile

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

the security unit

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

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

out of here," she said, pulling

"You always talked about love! You said you loved

“You promised to obey me, to give me your body, to

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

another android

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

froze in surprise. Alex squeezed her hand. “Go,” he said quietly. "This is

you?" she asked, her

personnel can access it. These people won't

android down the corridor. The robot stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The person in charge will arrive shortly." It turned and glided away, leaving her alone in the silent,

the door opened and a poised woman in a

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

blinked. "Miss Von

She's expecting

still dazed, and followed

of Eden Group headquarters. Her

powerful woman in Eden-want

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

It didn't make sense.

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

assistant opened it and gestured her in. Inside, Marlena Von Adler-the legendary chairwoman of Eden

Marlena said warmly, extending her hand. "I'm Marlena Von Adler, chairman of

most powerful businesswoman in Winchester-someone people usually met only in boardrooms

voice trembled slightly as she answered,

met

she said. "I came to discuss the collaboration proposal. I know the Wolfsbane Group isn't as large or as influential

we work hard.

never disappoint."

to .net

folder. "This is the Wolfsbane Group portfolio.

take a look."

knowing smile and took

a few pages,

already reviewed your documents. I believe you're the

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

out.

quick-too easy. She had spent

expecting a long

in seconds.

leaned back, her expression unreadable but

fully meet our usual standards. But our founder hold's your very nigh regard. He personally requested this

caught. "Your founder?" she asked, her voice

know who your

founder," she said softly, "is

blinked, unsure if

You'll understand when the

in you.

instructed her not to reveal his identity, and

Miss Scheinwald, according to your

"Yes, that's right," she said, her voice

easily.

frowned slightly. "What do you

instructed me to increase the contract value," Marlena said

set at one hundred

eyes widened, her breath

repeated, barely believing it.

contract, and slid it across

the agreement-one hundred million dollars in total. If you have

document in disbelief. Her

most powerful corporations in Winchester-had not oChapter

it down hard on Finnian's back. "I forbid you from seeing her! If you dare bring that