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.

After all, the survivor would live with the guilt forever.

"Enough talk. I'm giving you one minute to decide. IfChapter 659

"Father." Heather's eyes were full of fear and helplessness.

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

"Sebastian, maybe we can negotiate. Let us go, and just name your price- anything you want."

Sebastian thought for a moment and said, "Alright. I'll give you a chance. I want one million gold coins!"

"What? One million gold coins? Why don't you just rob a bank?" Martin nearly jumped up in anger.

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

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

his teeth, feeling as if his heart

to the large amount of gold, Sebastian

Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100

and

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

leaving Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick

I'd like to ask

to

grown even deeper. Sebastian not only healed his wounds,

debt that Hendrick considered a second

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

help to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a

Sebastian wasn't a professional artist,

woman in the picture your

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

was hard not to admire a man as exceptional as

but after seeing the

the drawing

her own beauty.

circumstances

Mr. Wilder. I'll send people to find her immediately. I'm sure we'll have news soon,"

stayed at the chamber, waiting for updates.

for some people to take care of

he assigned Brork to

witnessed Sebastian's terrifying power first hand,

refusal. He was completely subdued, with no

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

I just can't swallow this humiliation!"

Heather and asked, "Are you willing to marry the

without hesitation, "Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of

then ask the Stonebrook family to deal with that

and daughter then stepped out

arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance of betrothal

head of the Stonebrook family and one of

his appearance was average, he had an impressive

arrival truly graces our

Knott, you're too kind. Please

that; it's our honor. Please, come in." Martin led the father and son into

"I've long heard that your daughter is as

she acted, the more

to keep staring at Ms.

snapped out of his daze and quickly stood up,

angry at all. In

become the young mistress of the Stonebrook

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

among the four great ladies in the

Denzel smiled a

said, "My son

not long ago,

first sight

he lost

his appetite and many.

over her. As his father, I

Cóntent

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

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

box, though smaller, contained dozens of

gifts include 880 thousand gold coins, a box

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

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

improve physical constitution, extend life, and greatly

constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even helped them

Knott, are you satisfied with the

satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin quickly

you agree to

For him to be interested

future

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

is formidable and who is

aren't many people who could cause trouble for you. Who might this person be?"

scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's

commoner.

consulting many renowned doctors, none

was powerless and had no way to refuse.

mind, we can call off

"I heard about this incident too, but I didn't know the

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

Camden, thank you for understanding," Heather forced out a couple of

already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the

up herself, she hoped to handle

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

got engaged, he demanded that

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

of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares to bully my woman

is very strong. Even

should be under 30 years old. How could he be

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

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

at least at

is definitely well

he just an early-stage divine grandmaster? That's nothingChapter

Heather and Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

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

Holton's Knott Estate, it was still far from matching the prestige of the four great

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

at five rings,

genius with boundless potential and

talent compensated for

their engagement, many women felt envious and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the Stonebrook family's daughter-in-law

secretly admired Heather,

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

Sebastian invested in a vast amount

stage of the cultivation technique- whether by

pills now to boost the cultivation of those around him

Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One

at Knott Estate. They've sent over an

them is for me, I

"Yes,

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

Wilder, are

if I don't go, wouldn't I

and Heather both hate you to the core and their invitation is definitely not sincere it's clear

agreement. "My father is right.

walking right into

a bunch of petty clowns. There's

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

remained unmoved. "I appreciate your

clowns. They're not worth

me alone, fine. If they dare

ie

major families in the southern region, even stronger than the

"Mr. Wilder, please listen to

can't be avoided. If they're out for revenge, they'll cook

them

his group approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman

was dressed in a colorful gown, with a veil partially hiding her

there something you need from me?" Sebastian asked.

Sebastian nodded.

word that the Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the banquet. Going there now is

just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked

yourself. I just happened to run into you and thought I'd give you

care so much about me.

scoffed and turned

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

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

No more advice, please," Sebastian said

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

was festive

respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to personally

by the end of today, she would be the future daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family-who would dare to cross her

was beaming. To have Heather a woman both

and touched by Sebastian So the only way to remove that thorn

Sebastian.

had been keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and his subordinate

that moment, "Mr. Camden,

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

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

nodded in satisfaction. "By the

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

nodded again in

Sebastian and his companions

doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he

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

teeth. "Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts to

exactly a dragon's lair. Why

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

"Brat, today next year will be your

If you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out

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

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

an idiot. He thinks that just because he came to congratulate the couple,

live. I can't tell if this guy is naive or just

insults. Among all the people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done

and said, "Today is your engagement party. Killing

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

this, Sebastian laughed and his smile was full

immediately grew furious. "What are you laughing at,

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

woman? You've got some nerve!"

it. This

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the Stonebrooks' third elder, Trey Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were

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

been practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to enhance

day, shevited

into her room, and tried to

"Shut up!"

interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop

he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You can't believe

believe him. This guy has

do you have?"

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

he's lying! He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with him, so he's

said, "Don't worry. No

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 to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me

right in front of

you can have her checked. If I'm lying,

to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be a joke if

has ulterior motives. Don't fall

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

and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or not,

Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as

as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it hard for everyone

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

While they were also divine grandmasters, there were

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

"Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're a fool Youre allowing this malicious woman to manipulate you so

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

marks on her chest because I got a bit rough. They're

truth, Sebastian

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned.

Heather

lies! I swear I'll cut

and he was

Stonebrook family was one of the four major families of the southern region, with all their elders

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power was truly

his released aura

Abigail looked on with faces full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little

Just as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered, reacting

resounding sound, Septimus' arm shattered

pained scream and staggered back

chased him

"What?"

A powerful middle- stage

strength was

and Kaitlyn were the most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian had

at most a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster

in fury. "I've really underestimated you. If you

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

Sebastian, his eyes filled with

forward. "Mr. Camden, can you do me a favor?

the start. Although her face was hidden, she had

found her even more enticing than he had imagined.

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

and breaks both his hands,

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

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

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

some death trap. Why shouldn't I

didn't realize your strength was so formidable, but you

Stonebrook family

exceeds your imagination. Gouging out your eyes and breaking your hands

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

in the

know it's hard to accept,

five miserably than

say something, but in

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

slim, at least Sebastian

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook

seething with rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how

I won't be satisfied until

his cultivation

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

intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on the

truly unfathomable.

said that Trey has the ability

what level Sebastian's cultivation is? He struck so quickly before; this is definitely going to be a fierce

Everyone nodded in agreement.

sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a long sword

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

air,

the surrounding temperature seemed to plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen into an

Godslayer

This 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

Camden

doomed now. With the added power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine

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

Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

eyes, unable to bear watching Sebastian's

had taken her virginity, but after calming down and

to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted to save her. That all made

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

far

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

a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It seemed as though it

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

cultivation slumped to the ground while

alive, so his sword's target was

strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out

To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique

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

"How is this possible?"

eyes widened, filled with shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as they were

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

the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength, but it didn't budge an

slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey

he was jolted

"This sword is not bad.

shouted in a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and

Sebastian. "You actually dared

can kill me, I can also

I'm warning you. I'm the heir to

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

of idiots. You two really are

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

"You're about to die, yet you still dare to shout at me. If that's not foolishness, I don't know

plan to kill us?" Heather was suddenly

our family will never

person. If you send two, I'll kill

spoke. By the end, his voice was thunderous, sending shivers down

believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring

down on him and thought that he was lying. However, after witnessing Sebastian's

of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over a thousand

Blade technique and come to my house to admit your

end up in a

dare!"

him. He gathered all the experts from

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

present. Those below grandmaster

the grandmasters struggled to remain standing, their legs quivering

him!" Camden commanded

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

the fray. Instead, he

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

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

cake. The sheer

was terrifying.

collapsed to the ground, and her

toward Heather. He

air, attempting

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

trust nothing like this will ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through the boutique's high-ceilinged

nodding so hard the tight bun at the back

spread through her limbs like warm water,

dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered

the child, the day would have ended

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

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

I should be the one thanking you," he

a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added, "Every outfit you brought

of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened, and

well over ten thousand, yet this child

uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she sought Nathaniel's

still a minor. A purchase of this scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel gave a single, calm nod. "Wrap

wanted an entire rack

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

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

showroom, the other employees watched, envy

could cover the

more.

Nathaniel standing nearby and everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal Ivy's

guided

toward the register, she leaned down, voice barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or

over eight million." s

Elodie hadn't asked her, Ivy would never have

said, firm as bedrock. "I'm buying

gaze flicked to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she finally swiped

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

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

"Ms. Ivy,

set the

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

on to whatever gentleman keeps

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

apairof

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

Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast

arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and ribbon-tied shopping bags that bumped against their

Jonathan, who still wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did you

wanted me to pop in and pick out a few outfits for Uncle Zachary. This is just a quick errand on

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

unreadable. "Your Ms.

a small, sour note curled inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for

mood darkened like a

reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty

the first fib, it was only because Vivian's eccentricity made

Nathaniel, Jonathan appeared more like an

delegate adult shopping to

figured something out, haven't

blinked,

out a quiet breath. “When it comes to social-grade lying,

fast, and the

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

shoulders back and forced a civil smile. "Why would I be?" he countered, voice calm yet edged

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

shut.Am I showing it

where did you

Jon shrugged as if stating simple

chest. If even a

uneasy when the restroom door stayed

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

the corridor, she almost collided with Jonathan

them, arms

And what on

inspecting

gifts,” he said smoothly. "Holiday

had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was

would have been nice. I was starting to wonder why you'd

bewildered. When have I ever been

cleared his throat and shot Jonathan

to carrying the constipation story on his

skimping on

slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders

doctor, all right? You're far too little to

who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch of

warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly

never imagining the confession would

Cecilia

really. I'll be fine if I drink

the model child, obedient, courteous, eager

shook her head, unwilling to yield. "That won't do. Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation

said it with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce

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

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

watched, eyes soft with pity for the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess he

at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half

the gate like a summoned genie,

you're not sure how

at the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like a stone

particular battlefield. He shook his head so

Mommy. I can manage on my

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

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

off to the bathroom with you," she said, voice low and gentle, as though

"Okay."

like contraband and bolted down the hallway toward

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

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

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

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

cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on," she said, "let's try

take tons

in bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back while he struck every pose his imagination supplied.

photoshoot ended,

Queenie's departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the sorrow

daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug,

video-called often to check on the children

little, life seemed to find its rhythm

the children be able to come

her priorities were

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

as you can. Your grandpa and I will prepare every

a good while longer, then

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

only Cecilia and Nathaniel

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

"Ceci."

in surprise. "What

all we're doing today?" His question

don't follow. What do you mean?" Confusion

Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing,"

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

to his, worry eclipsing her earlier cheer.

the scent of cedar from his

she could speak

long arms swept

swift, possessive

his chest, as though staking a claim

really have to

every syllable

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

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

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

holding each other? They're not babies anymore. They should

she muttered, "Not babies?

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

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

lit behind his eyes. "Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan

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

།

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

a hand, the pad of his finger

"Hmm?"

drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of

it click. Her proud, composed husband was jealous of

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

storm gathering behind the calm

bolted down the

a break for it, then sprang up and

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

of spare rooms in

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

the deadbolt turned, and darkness enveloped the

the windows, but inside,

slicing through the curtains and

find Nathaniel's face less than an inch away. She could count the fine stubble dusting his

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

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open,

he murmured, drawing her even

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

"Stay. Just a little longer."

a

and mumbled, "Give me a few

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

were you this attached? I

mouth. "I was younger. Didn't

and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing

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

you hit the mall

shook her head. "That's

he asked, still

and something nice for

carried a note of suspicion

"Nope."

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

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

the cause. He just hates it when I leave

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

padded through quiet hallways, and stepped

1.

and Elliot

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

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

here just called you an idiot with half a

pale, then burned red. He spun toward the Baroness. “I—I didn't mean

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

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

She'd never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something

this one

Every last one of you! From this moment on, Sofina

The room fell silent.

"Don't worry, Grandma," she

crossed his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin that made

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

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

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

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

turned toward Beatrix, eyes narrowing, "you just sit here sneering. Tell me, Beatrix-what's your real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking your own grandmother's got half a brain? That she's

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

coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment

snapped. "You're a fool if you think any of this will

let's make this interesting. What if she

I'm scared? Name your terms, Alex

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

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

said, leaning back with a half-smile.

suddenly chimed in, "Count me in too!

turned his gaze on her, raising a brow. "Alright. But

arms, chin lifted. "I won't lose.

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

"Ha! You're really digging your

you lose, I want you to divorce

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

the bet and sent the document

"Perfect," he said. "I

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

thing-whether the Wolfsbane family

"Sofina, you have three days

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

"Trust? No. Desperation?

look. "That's supposed

someone who hasn't met this family." Sofina

I bet

brow. "You really think

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

arms. "And what

chuckled. "Then I'll finally fit right in

clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were

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

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

wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy

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

can."

glancing at him. "You

road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when

half amused. "I wish I

enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you miss, you'll

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

Sofina whispered as

walked around to open her door. "With me here, your luck's already doubled," he said

QUMS

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

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

like a polished god. The idea

with them was like a beggar asking a banker to lend

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

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

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

Group. The

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration

earth are you

standing with Katarina Rosenheim,

hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way

sentence.

thousand times-get this sort of woman away from my sight. How could you let her walk in here?" Heinrich bowed his head like a man forced to swallow bile. "I'm sorry, Katarina. I tried. I truly did. I don't understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward and grabbed Sofina's wrist in a rough. "You're

fool? Even

Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided into

a guest-he forced her out

the

Heinrich's hand clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging her down the hallway while papers

pulled on his gloves,

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

quietly, helping her pick them up.

I say, he

he hurt you?" Alex asked, gently

serious," she

don't need to print everything. The digital files are

faintly. "Maybe. But I like the feel

brushed his chest. "The same way

"You really are

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

as they walked back through the glass corridor

voice

again," Heinrich barked, stepping forward. "What the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay

froze. The color drained from her

saw it-the invisible chain that

tensed, eyes

himself between Sofina

a guest. You have no authority to

here-l expect to be treated like a king.

sharp laugh. "Keep dreaming. You're not a king- you're just another arrogant fool. A pathetic worm in

Schiller." Heinrich's face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run

brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a nearby figure.

while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor

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

deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you,

gardener. He insulted me

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

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.

"You seem to forget your

you anytime I want. Now,

and beg

the one who tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't

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

he's not joining?"

nothing compared to him! Now

calmly, shaking

if you don't!"

each other a long time. Just

was low and dangerous. "How about this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three kowtows,

drawn by the rising tension.

to stand up to Heinrich? The

joined in. "That gardener's got

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

of Winchester?

and

desperate for my attention, haven't you? Well,

who doesn't know his place. How about

bows, and

hand tightened around Alex's arm, her

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

I'll have the

Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing outcasts. And you know I can make that

s

him

steady. "Let me handle

her face. She met his eyes.

Sofina stepped forward alone.Chapter

a boil. "You hit

curse.

you think you're doing, bitch!"

Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her,

supporting him with a hand at the small of his

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

said, every syllable a command. "Give

Dietrich. "You'd better cancel that order," he said. "Someone's going

sneered. "The one who'll get

his communication bracelet. "Security — attend.

tilted his head. "I warned

began

dare she hit

know Heinrich's the man

another voice

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

to

the household robot Sofina had left at

had wired her into

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

the previous command. Secure Dietrich and give

optical sensors swung toward

and slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The shock hit him

robot drew an electric whip from a holster and began

dark lines of blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop! Not me - her! You're whipping

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

already the most advanced," someone

confusion moved through the

stop until Dietrich had taken

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

to catch up with the chaos

one hand clutching his bleeding nose. He wiped the blood away with the back of his wrist, his face twisting with

bitch," he hissed, voice low and venomous.

toward her, his hand swinging

had

was weak, but because she'd once mistaken her

"Find someone your own size," he said, low

— let go of me!" Heinrich

hard lid. The government cameras watched from every

Heinrich screamed like an animal, pain folding him

at a hand that felt as if bone and pride were

gasped, tears wet on his cheeks as the pressure crushed

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

-

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

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

were desperater

the same breath she'd promised Eden that Heinrich would

main hall, the polished calm of her

down, and Heinrich

She stormed over

my Heinrich? Let him go this instant. How dare you strike him until he bleeds-I'll

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

that true?"

Sofina. She hit my nose." Heinrich

noble. You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if you want-try to prove you're better. Go on. I

real

a noble, the punishment could be death. If

often than not,

protected rank,

struck a commoner, most people just accepted it.

the Prussia — power didn't need to

sharp eyes to

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

I won't divorce her. Go ahead and

don't have to be

for you and for your Sant Claire family. When im done with

her, disbelief hardening his

to you? That everyone just spins around your

to marry you.

sound of her voice

shouted. "Kneel! Now!" Katarina's voice cracked

she'd discovered something she wouldn't admit —

him.

the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her

everything was cold and transactionaChapter

moment. He didn't want to face Katarina—not here, not

he could take another step, her hand shot out and clamped

at him, fierce and

stop, Alex," Katarina

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

not my wife anymore. I don't owe

dog for life," Katarina hissed, and her hand whipped across his face. The slap cracked through

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

command you

this bitch!"

hesitation. Her eyes were

tightened on Alex. Sofina caught it in

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

used to obedience. She had been treated like royalty, and she'd made

the

the Rosenheim title was

that they earned their barony by stabbing their own

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

her voice shaking with fury. "She's spitting

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

could raise a hand, a silver Eden security robot glided between them, its

is permitted on Eden Group property," it announced firmly. "Cease

attackers jerked, their

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

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

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

of here," she

whip. "You always talked about love! You said you loved me! You swore you'd

rose, trembling with rage. “You promised to obey me, to give me your body, to destroy

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

Alex could answer, another android glided up

Please proceed to Meeting Room 01. I can escort you if you are

hand. “Go,” he said quietly. "This is

she asked, her voice

access it. These people won't be able

stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The person in charge will arrive

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

been a change in location. Please follow me. Miss Von Adler

Von Adler? The

ma'am. She's expecting

nodded, still dazed, and followed the woman through the

of Eden Group headquarters.

Marlena Von Adler-the most powerful woman in Eden-want

one about working with the Wolfsbane family.

It didn't make sense.

this didn't come twice. She followed the assistant through the long corridor, her heels echoing off the marble

legendary chairwoman of Eden Group-rose gracefully from behind

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

She was standing before the most powerful businesswoman

trembled slightly as she answered, but she kept her tone

met

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

we

never disappoint."

to .net

Marlena a neat folder. "This is the Wolfsbane Group portfolio.

take a look."

smile and took

pages, then closed it

her voice soft but sure, "I've already reviewed your documents. I believe

You mean... it's approved?" Her words

out.

quick-too easy. She had spent weeks rehearsing every

question, expecting a long negotiation. And

in seconds.

back, her expression unreadable

"the Wolfsbane Group doesn't fully meet our usual standards. But our

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

I know who your founder

“Our founder," she said softly, "is the most handsome man I've

blinked, unsure if she'd heard

You'll understand

in you. He believes in you. And that's why he's giving you this

her tone carried weight. Alex had instructed her not to reveal his identity, and she obeyed without

shifted the topic with a professional calm. "Now, Miss Scheinwald, according to your proposal, your initial quotation for the collaboration is fifty million dollars,

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

easily. "In

frowned slightly. "What

to increase the contract value,"

at

eyes widened, her breath

repeated, barely believing it.

and slid it across the

dollars in total. If you have no objections, we can sign

at the document in disbelief. Her mind spun. Eden

in Winchester-had not oChapter

on Finnian's back. "I forbid you from seeing her! If you dare

and again, each crack of the cane echoing through the room. Despite his age, Mr. Everly's arm was still strong; after just a few blows, Finnian's crisp

wanted to intervene, but Mr. Everly wouldn't listen. He kept shouting, "I'll beat

and gently caught Mr. Everly's arm, her

finally stopped, glaring at Finnian and gasping for breath, his shoulders heaving with

should go. I'll talk to Grandpa,"

her a long, searching look, then turned and walked

He clutched Amara's hand, his voice breaking. "Ama, Finnian's out of his mind. Can't you see? He insists on being with that actress, as if he's

threatened to fall as he squeezed her hand,

had confessed his feelings to her; today, he was determined to be with Liliana. Thinking back on

there's something I've never told