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.

all, the survivor would live with the guilt

you one minute to decide.

were full of fear

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

can negotiate. Let us go, and just name your

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

just rob a bank?" Martin nearly

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

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

pay!" Martin gritted his teeth,

large amount of gold,

long after, Martin handed Sebastian ten

word and left after receiving the

Martin and Heather-not because he was merciful,

leaving Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton Chamber of

like to ask you

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

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

Hendrick considered a second chance at

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

need your help to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then

a professional artist,

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

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

trace of disappointment flashed in Abigail's eyes. It was hard not to admire

but after seeing

in the

her own beauty.

then explained the circumstances and timing of Fressia's

I'll send people to find her immediately.

Sebastian stayed at the chamber, waiting

arrange for some people to take

he assigned Brork to protect her in

first hand, Brork didn't dare to

refusal. He was completely subdued, with no thoughts

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

just can't swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter

looked at Heather and asked, "Are you willing to marry the

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

and then ask the Stonebrook family to

and daughter then stepped out

arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance

the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses of the southern

26 years old. Though his appearance was average, he had an impressive presence; this was

Denzel, Mr. Camden, your arrival truly graces our humble

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

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

daughter is as beautiful as

Stonebrook." Heather appeared slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left

quickly reprimanded, "Camden, it's impolite to keep staring

stood up, saying, "I'm sorry,

angry at all. In fact, she felt quite pleased

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

access to the Stonebrook family's cultivation resources, her strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making

even secure a place among the four great

Denzel smiled a

"My son

once not long ago,

first sight

lost his

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

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

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

though smaller, contained dozens of

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

all out. The gold coins alone amounted

making them extremely scarce in the market. When Martin and Heather

the body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and

consumed by warriors, these pills significantly improved their constitution, accelerated their training

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

very satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin

mean you agree

course. Mr. Camden is a remarkable man. For him to be interested

was overjoyed inside. With the future title of daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook

date, setting it for

Stonebrook, we've recently provoked someone whose strength is formidable and who

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

"It's a scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's just a

commoner.

ill with a strange disease once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me.

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

call off the engagement, Mr.

eyes. "I heard about this

worry, Heather. I don't mind.

understanding," Heather

was part of her clever strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the Stonebrook family's resources, they likely

it up herself, she hoped to handle the situation

"To protect my reputation, I agreed to marry him. But what I never expected was that the scoundrel

engaged, he

He then tried to force himself on me,

bastard!" Camden was furious, smashing the table in front of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares to bully my woman will die

that scoundrel is very strong. Even my

years

skills, their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and

his 20s, but his real age could be far

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

age is

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

and Camden's engagement spread

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

had a decent status as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it was still far from matching the prestige of the four

background wasn't on

The Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing her

with boundless potential and

and talent compensated for her comparatively modest

women felt envious and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the Stonebrook family's

especially those who secretly admired Heather,

no mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed

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

of the cultivation

the cultivation of those around him once

rest. One day, after finishing his

Heather and Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've

is for me, I assume?" Sebastian

nodded. "Yes,

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

are

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

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 want to use the Stonebrook family's power against you."

is right. You mustn't go.

right into their

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

so careless. know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has many powerful figures. If you go you're bound to be at a

Hendrick warned.

to .net

unmoved. "I appreciate your concern,

They're not worth

fine. If they dare

ie

Stonebrook family is one of the four major families in the southern region, even stronger

listen to us and

be avoided. If they're out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even if I skip this

them sooner

and his group approached the entrance of

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

from me?" Sebastian asked. "Are you

Sebastian nodded.

Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the

been waiting here just to tell me this?"

happened to run into you and thought

you to care so much about me. Could

scoffed and

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

talent, you're destined to become a peerless force in the future. Just bide your time," Abigail added, trying to

No more advice, please,"

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

the atmosphere was festive and

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

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

beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning and neredibly talented was something that would inspire envy in

side-Heather's body had already been seen and touched by Sebastian So the only way

Sebastian.

on Sebastian's movements, and his

report just at that moment, "Mr.

enters. Make

be able to

in satisfaction. "By the way, has my

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

again

moment, Sebastian and his companions

doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he

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

had the guts to come. I can't decide if I should praise your bravery or call you

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

snorted coldly. "Stop playing dumb. Since you've come today, don't expect

mocking smile. "Brat, today next year

you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out your

me to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet, here you are, shouting

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

thinks that just because he came to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden would let him go. He

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

Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian.

"Today is your engagement party. Killing someone

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

Sebastian laughed and his smile was full of

are you laughing

are so many good women out there. Why on earth did you choose someone

insult my woman? You've

it. This guy

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

stood up. They were looking ready to strike Sebastian down

"Mr. Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out.

practicing

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to enhance

day,

into her

"Shut up!"

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

Heather on purpose. You can't

him. This

you have?" Camden

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 she

He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with him,

worry. No matter what he says, I won't believe

that day, I couldn't resist and ended up sleeping with her. But what I didn't expect was that she was using an evil cultivation technique

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

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

"Camden, don't listen to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll

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

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

cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or

verify everything as soon

as vast

Just the aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers

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

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster, significantly stronger

thought you had some sense in you, but you're a

"You tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep talking. Heather is nothing more than

by the way, I left a few scratch marks on her chest because I got a bit rough.

at his words and instinctively covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed

However, Heather's reaction

everyone stunned.

Heather

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

a fool, and he was infuriated by

four major families of the southern

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His

his released aura alone made it hard for anyone

with faces full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there

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

a resounding sound, Septimus'

out a pained scream and staggered back in

him down

"What?"

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

strength was beyond

long ago, Sebastian had participated

all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why would he bother with

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

family!

Sebastian, his

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

her face was hidden, she had an undeniable allure

he had

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

breaks both his

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

is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone

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

trap. Why shouldn't

Kaitlyn said, "I didn't realize your strength was so formidable, but you still can't

The Stonebrook family

your eyes and breaking your hands

lightly and replied, "Ms. Gardner, I

the habit

know it's hard to accept,

than to

Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but in the

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

the chances were slim, at least Sebastian could

"Septimus!"

of the Stonebrook family erupted in

rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how dare

Septimus? I won't be satisfied until I torture you for

his cultivation

Camden's order. He was already

each step forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall left a deep

truly unfathomable. He's probably at

stage of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Camden shouted, tossing

caught the sword and immediately drew it from its sheath.

air, unleashing a wave of terrifying

though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their

the Godslayer Blade of

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

They hadn't expected Camden to carry the Godslayer

added power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage

Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could slice through iron like it was

was Sebastian, empty-handed-what

eyes, unable to

resented the man who had taken her virginity, but after calming down

have been defiled by that old scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted to save her. That all made

even started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever

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

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

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

miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere that weighed

cultivation slumped to the ground

alive, so his sword's target was Sebastian's

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

try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with one's bare hand was

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

"How is this possible?"

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

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

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

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

if he was jolted

in satisfaction. "This sword is not

and

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

kill or be killed. If you think you can kill me, I can also kill you. It's your turn

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

with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top experts in the

idiots. You two really

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

to shout at me. If that's not

plan to kill us?" Heather

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

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

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

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

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

truly are full of yourself! Our family has

to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let

in a grave, you won't be

you dare!"

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

Sebastian looked at him with disdain. He took a step forward, releasing

everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed to

struggled to remain standing,

Kill him!"

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

the fray. Instead,

a tremendous energy burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent flying. Before

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

of cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

the ground, and her face

moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed

the air, attempting to

nervous clerk and

will ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet

so hard the tight bun at the back of her

turned away did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like

on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered a quick,

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

"Thank you,"

practiced smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly composed for a boy his

the one thanking you," he replied,

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

like a clap of thunder. Jaws

over ten thousand, yet this child

around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as

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

still did not understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of

expression. "Of course," she

sweeping the garments from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags

other employees watched, envy shining through their

this large could cover the down payment on

more.

why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal Ivy's triumph, not

Ivy guided

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

over eight million." s

asked her, Ivy would never have

Jonathan said, firm

no objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card through the

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

Ivy presented the card with both hands, as though returning a

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

clerk finally set the receipt

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

it on to whatever gentleman

her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's far too expensive," she blurted, hands

apairof

effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared

delivered

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

thigh, and asked,

miss a beat. “Oh. Ms. Kennedy wanted me to pop in and pick out a few outfits for Uncle Zachary. This is just

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

Ms. Kennedy

Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci never thinks

darkened like a sky

"Dad,

fib, it

Jonathan appeared more like an adult compared to

She would never delegate adult

figured something out, haven't

Jonathan blinked,

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

to be exposed so fast, and the realization sent a tremor

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

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

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

opened, then snapped shut.Am I showing it

his throat. “And exactly where did you

your face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as if

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

stayed

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

she almost collided

the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded with shopping

been? And what on earth is

forward, intent on inspecting the loot, but

he said smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing

so Nathaniel was patching the hole

have been nice. I was starting to wonder why

When have I

throat and shot Jonathan a pointed

to carrying the constipation story on his

I guess I've been skimping on water

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

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

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

felt heat rush to his cheeks until his whole face burned

merely confessed the problem, never imagining the confession would

since Cecilia had hugged him

Mommy, really. I'll be fine if I drink more water. It isn't that bad, please

been the model child, obedient, courteous,

yield. "That won't do. Maybe

it with earnest gravity, the way surgeons

expression twisted into silent misery. Great, sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you

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

soft with pity for the boy and a glimmer of amused

and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's worth

they reached home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie,

you're not sure

me? Jonathan stared at the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping

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

Mommy. I can manage

ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that

So young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If it

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

"Okay."

contraband and bolted

He watched his brother's

he really constipated? He sure doesn't look it," Elliot muttered

with a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease your brother. He's having

surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of

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

have to take tons of super-cool photos of

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

little photoshoot ended, she

and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place,

of her life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug, photos of uneaten cookies, and funny anecdotes

in return, video-called often to

seemed to

able to

the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side of

"Nathaniel and I have decided. We'll come

will prepare every one of your favorite dishes," Bethany replied, her delight

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

and Elliot collapsed onto their beds,

Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick of a wall

eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five minutes

"Ceci."

in surprise. "What

all we're doing today?" His

follow. What do you mean?" Confusion knitted her

eyes. "Nothing,"

weight of his displeasure sit plainly on his face. Cecilia finally read the room.

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

single step closer, the scent of cedar from

could speak

long arms swept

swift, possessive

as though staking

have

with gravel, every

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

whisper-shouting, "Stop it, let me go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and

atop her hair as

be awkward about two married people holding each other? They're not babies anymore.

"Not babies? They're

moved overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the

genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left the country that

an idea lit behind his eyes. "Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad

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

།

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

his finger brushing

"Hmm?"

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

it click. Her proud, composed husband

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

a storm gathering

Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the hallway,

stunned that she would dare make a break for it,

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

on the door. "There are plenty of spare rooms in this house.

his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her up again, and kicked the door shut

deadbolt turned,

hissed against the windows, but

light, snow glare slicing through

opened her eyes to find Nathaniel's face less than an inch away. She could

a finger over that faint roughness,

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open,

even closer

can't breathe.” Her voice came

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

best friends a full day of window-shopping and

his arms and mumbled, "Give me a few more minutes. Keep

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

were you this attached? I

grin tugged at his mouth. "I

dark strands springing up beneath

have a busy day ahead," she said, trying to slip

hit the mall with your friends, that's all,

head. "That's it.

asked, still

clothes for Mom, and something nice for

else?” His tone carried a note of suspicion wrapped in playful

"Nope."

shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning

by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat. “Fine. Go on,

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

her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like a weight on his ribs Sleep had scattered, and there was no coaxing it

padded through quiet hallways, and stepped

1.

had spirited Jon and Elliot off to RaiChapter

short of being human!" Conrad

only a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane

called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with half a brain

burned red. He spun toward the Baroness. “I—I didn't

table. Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her so-called

Alex-the outcast, the family fool-who stood up

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

least this one had

last one of you! From this moment on, Sofina

The room fell silent.

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

flashing Beatrix a smug grin

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

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

real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle worker? That she's going to

"I think the Wolfsbane family is great enough that even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's dream—and I believe in my

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

hands fast. "No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's

smile curved slow and dangerous. "No, 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

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

"Then let's make this interesting. What

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

main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is ours foever. You move into our home,

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

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

chimed in, "Count me in too!

raising a brow. "Alright. But what happens

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

this—if you lose, you

You're really digging your

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

he said calmly. "But if I win, you'll

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

said. "I like it when

them. She

was one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could actually secure that collaboration

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

home, Sofina frowned, glancing out the window. "You really think

"Trust? No. Desperation?

look. "That's supposed to

talk to someone who hasn't

least I bet on your victory. Isn't

a brow. "You really think this bet will

"It'll show who's

"And what if

chuckled. "Then I'll finally fit right

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

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

the car's polished hood, “we should return this car. It's

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

Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother

can."

at him. "You really think this

on our way up. And when this is over,

half anxious, half amused. "I wish I had your

widening. "You've got me. That's enough. Come on,

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

Sofina whispered as the car touched

around 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 means

QUMS

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

under the shadow of the two-hundred-story tower and felt something empty

a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane

partner with them was like a

in front of the whole

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

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

Group. The sight

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration

you

and found Heinrich standing with Katarina

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

sentence.

I tried. I truly did. I don't understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her

are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group. You're not worthy-none of yoChapter

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

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

me the footage," Alex

projected the recording. Heinrich's hand clamped around Sofina's arm,

collar, pulled on his gloves,

a pile of

said quietly, helping her pick them

I say, he just slips back into his arrogant

you?" Alex asked, gently lifting her

nothing serious," she

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

smiled faintly. "Maybe. But I like the feel

chest. "The same way I

chuckled. "You really

me, you looked at me like I was more than data in a file.

other as they walked back through the glass corridor of Eden's

voice

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

color

that still

tensed, eyes flickering, as if

stepped forward, placing himself between Sofina and

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

me how to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like

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

Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're

brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found

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

to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve

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

Your gardener. He insulted me and tried to throw

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

Group has over a thousand 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 registered, the security androids wouldn't have given me the

"You seem to forget your place. I'm

fire you

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and beg

tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't even belong to

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

not

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

said calmly, shaking his head. "I

be fired if you

other a long time. Just kneel and

low and dangerous. "How about this, Heinrich-you kneel to

crowd started to gather, drawn by the

gardener trying to stand up to Heinrich? The man really doesn't know who

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

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

mistake of Winchester? No wonder

smirked and turned to

for my attention, haven't

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

Three bows, and I

Alex's arm, her knuckles

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

have the

you'll be nothing outcasts.

s

grabbed him tighter

was soft but steady. "Let me

searching her face. She met his eyes.

stepped

a boil. "You hit me, bitch-" He spat

curse.

do you think you're

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

hustled Heinrich upright, supporting him with a hand

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

every syllable a command. "Give her

cancel that order," he said. "Someone's

sneered. "The one who'll

jabbed his communication bracelet. "Security —

his head.

crowd began to

hit Heinrich," someone

you know Heinrich's

her!" another voice

Eden Group security unit glided forward and ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment,

moment the system flagged a threat to her, an alert

room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina had left at

machine. Alex had wired her into his

touched Sofina reported to Eve first-she

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

optical sensors swung

The shock hit him like a thrown rope; he folded

security robot drew an electric whip

Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop! Not me - her! You're whipping

triumph to alarm. "Is the Eden

is already the most advanced,"

of confusion

didn't stop until Dietrich

it hauled him to his feet and kicked him out,

frozen, her mind struggling to catch up with the

the blood away with the back

low and venomous. "I'll teach you a

her, his hand swinging through

time. Heinrich had struck Sofina

because she was weak, but because she'd once mistaken her submission

"Find someone

let go

temper under a hard lid. The government cameras

screamed like an animal, pain folding

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

go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on

Group meeting room like a storm breaking loose. Her

-

Rosenheim family had just finished presenting their offer - a bid to replace the Krugers,

become the next family

were desperater

breath she'd promised Eden that Heinrich would cooperate if

the moment Katarina emerged into the main hall, the polished calm of

Heinrich down, and Heinrich bled and

white with fury. She stormed over

dare

the police won't help you," he said coolly.

that true?" Katarina asked

She hit

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

Prussia, nobles still carried real

immigrant struck a noble, the punishment could

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

law protected

a noble struck a commoner, most people

power didn't need to

turned her sharp eyes

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

I won't divorce

don't have

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

her, disbelief hardening his face. "Do you really

everyone just spins around

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

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

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

she wouldn't admit

him.

despised him now, the memories still haunted her - the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her from the world, how he cared for her without needing

Heinrich, everything was cold and transactionaChapter

been dreading this moment. He didn't

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

her staring at him, fierce and cold, while his other

told you to stop, Alex," Katarina

when I made you kneel in the rain for three days and nights? You

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

her hand whipped across his face. The slap cracked through the hall like a gunshot. "Don't you dare defy me, Alex. I own you

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

I command you

this bitch!"

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

on Alex. Sofina caught it in one swift move and snapped it

my husband," Sofina ordered. "You're his ex- don't

been treated like royalty,

heard the whispers for

title was

stabbing their own marquis, the Saint- Claires, in

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

fury. "She's spitting on my family name!

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

security robot

Eden Group property," it announced firmly.

out. Electricity flashed. The would-be attackers

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

there, red-faced and unmoored robbed, for the moment, of the power she'd

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

out of here," she

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

your body, to destroy yourself for me!

behind forced gestures-empty rituals, hollow

answer, another android

proceed

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

you?" she asked,

authorized personnel can access it. These people won't

down the corridor. The robot stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please

poised woman in a tailored suit stepped

follow me. Miss Von Adler would like to meet you

blinked. "Miss Von Adler? The

ma'am. She's expecting

and followed the woman through the

Eden Group headquarters. Her

Marlena Von Adler-the most powerful woman in

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

It didn't make sense.

twice. She followed the assistant through the long corridor, her heels echoing off the marble floor, until they stopped in front of a taff metal door engraved

assistant opened it and gestured her in. Inside, Marlena Von Adler-the legendary chairwoman of Eden Group-rose gracefully from behind her desk. Her presence filled the room like a

"I'm Marlena Von Adler, chairman of Eden Group. It's a

her pulse race. She was standing before the most powerful businesswoman in Winchester-someone people usually met only in boardrooms or

she answered, but she kept

met

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

but we

never disappoint."

to .net

"This

take a look."

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

pages,

but sure, "I've already reviewed your documents. I believe you're the perfect partner for

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

out.

too quick-too easy. She had spent

question, expecting a long negotiation.

in seconds.

leaned back, her expression

be honest," she said, "the Wolfsbane Group doesn't fully meet our usual standards. But our founder hold's your very nigh regard. He personally requested

caught. "Your founder?" she

"May I know who

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

me?" Sofina blinked, unsure if she'd heard

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

sees something in you. He believes in

weight. Alex had instructed her not

the topic with a professional calm. "Now, Miss Scheinwald, according to your proposal,

she said, her voice

"Oh no," she said easily. "In fact, it's less than

slightly. "What do you

founder instructed me to increase

wants it set at one hundred million

her breath catching. "One... hundred

repeated, barely believing it.

contract, and slid it across

in total. If you have no

at the document in disbelief. Her mind spun. Eden Group-one

in Winchester-had

you from seeing her! If you