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.

someone to live comfortably for a

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

teeth, feeling as if his

amount of gold, Sebastian only asked

long after, Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100 thousand gold

his word and left after receiving

merciful, but because he wanted to take his time to

Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton Chamber

ask

to be so formal. Just tell

wounds, which

debt that Hendrick considered a

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

your help to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and

wasn't a professional artist,

woman in the picture your wife?"

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

Abigail's eyes. It was hard not to admire

always been confident in herself, but after seeing the portrait, her confidence

in the drawing

her own

then explained the circumstances and timing

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

the chamber,

arrange for some people to take care

Brork to protect her

Sebastian's terrifying power first hand, Brork

single word of refusal. He was completely

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

swallow this humiliation!"

asked, "Are you willing

"Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of course

We'll settle this marriage today and then ask the Stonebrook family to deal with that little bastard!" Martin

father and daughter then stepped

family had arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance

dignified middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses

was average, he had an impressive presence; this was Camden Stonebrook, the heir to the Stonebrook

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

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

come in." Martin led the father and son

"I've long heard that your daughter is as beautiful as a

she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left her, like they were practically glued to her

"Camden, it's impolite to keep staring at

snapped out of his daze and quickly stood up, saying, "I'm sorry, Ms.

showed him a bashful smile. She was not angry at

become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would

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

among the

Denzel smiled a

"My son

not long

first sight

he lost his

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

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

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

box, though smaller, contained

a box of top-grade gemstones, a box of

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

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

body, improve physical constitution, extend

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

you satisfied with the Stonebrook family's

Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin

you agree

to be interested in my daughter is an honor

shy, but she was overjoyed inside. With the future title of daughter-in-law of the

the wedding date, setting it for a year

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

southern region, there aren't many people who could cause trouble for you. Who might this person be?" Denzel

interjected, "It's a scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's

commoner.

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

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

you mind, we can call off the engagement, Mr.

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

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

you for understanding," Heather

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

it up herself, she hoped to handle the

I agreed to marry him. But what I never expected was that the scoundrel was

got engaged, he demanded that I sleep with

him. He then tried to force himself on me,

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

Camden, that scoundrel is very strong. Even my father couldn't defeat

30 years old.

lifespans increase. There are also herbs and pills that extend life

20s, but

at least at the early pinnacle stage of diving grandmaster, strongerthan

real age is definitely

he just an early-stage divine

of Heather and Camden's engagement spread

of the southern region,

as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate,

Heather's family background wasn't on

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

a genius with boundless

and talent compensated for her comparatively modest

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

especially those who secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their hopes seemingly

mind. Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything

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

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

boost the cultivation of those around

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

are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've sent

of them is for me,

nodded. "Yes, you're

nothing more than an attempt to use the Stonebrook family's influence to

Wilder, are

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

it's best if you don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their invitation is definitely not

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

walking right into

bunch of petty clowns. There's

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

appreciate your concern, but those people

clowns. They're

me alone, fine. If they dare provoke me, I'll destroy

ie

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

listen to us

for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even if I

better to confront them sooner rather than

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

hiding her stunning beauty-it

from me?" Sebastian asked. "Are you heading

Sebastian nodded.

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

tell me this?"

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

much about me.

scoffed

Wilder, if Ms. Gardner says so, then

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

mind is made up. No more advice,

their heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to his

Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled

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

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

a woman both stunning

thorn in his side-Heather's body had already been seen and touched by Sebastian

Sebastian.

had been keeping tabs on Sebastian's

just at that moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian has

the exits once he enters. Make

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

in satisfaction. "By the way, has my

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

nodded again in

and

he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he spotted

also taken aback. She had already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still showed up. Was he walking into his own demise?Chapter

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

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

Since you've come today, don't expect to

a mocking smile. "Brat, today next

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

to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet, here you are, shouting threats. Is this how you treat

"I invited you here just to

to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden would let

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

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

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

don't care about such things. If you want to live

and his smile was full

furious. "What are you laughing at, you

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

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

it. This guy must

slim chance to live.

Everyone nodded in agreement.

seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking ready

get angry just yet. Hear me out.

practicing

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

One day,

her room, and tried to

"Shut up!"

quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop

on purpose. You can't

I don't believe him. This guy

do you have?" Camden

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

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

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

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

laughed angrily. "To slander my woman right in front of

can have her checked. If I'm lying, you can do with me as you

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

guy has ulterior motives. Don't fall for his

under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he wondered,

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

Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as soon as

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

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

apprehensive. While they

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

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

sure 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

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

Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed by

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing she

Heather was

I swear I'll

he was infuriated

families of the southern region, with all their

in particular, was a middle-stage divine

released aura alone made it hard for

But there was little they could do; they were powerless to stop the

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

a resounding sound,

out a pained scream

Sebastian chased him

"What?"

utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated in a single

was beyond

most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian had participated

just an ordinary person, perhaps at most a warrior. After all, if he were

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

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

Sebastian, his eyes filled

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

already noticed Kaitlyn from the start. Although her face

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

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

breaks both

eyes and breaking his hands a

consider myself rather kind for offering this. This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone that left no

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

some death trap. Why shouldn't I

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

Stonebrook family

breaking your hands is the best

"Ms. Gardner, I appreciate your

in the

know it's hard

than to die. IfChapter

oh my..." Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but in

eyes and hands was a fate worse than death. Rather than living worse

at

"Septimus!"

members of the Stonebrook family

as he shouted, "Sebastian

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

cripple his

was already walking toward Sebastian, his aura growing increasingly

his presence intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on

be truly unfathomable. He's probably at

Trey has the ability to fight beyond

quickly before; this is

Everyone nodded in agreement.

sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a long

it from its sheath. A

the air,

an instant, the surrounding temperature seemed to plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they

be the Godslayer Blade of the

the world with this

Camden to carry the

power of the Godslayer Blade, not even

was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier

was Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

eyes, unable to bear watching Sebastian's

taken her virginity, but after calming down and reflecting,

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

was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was in

far surpassed hers, and he didn't need her

Sebastian were the

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

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

slumped to

to capture Sebastian alive, so his

to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out to grab

expression filled with cruelty. To try and stop the

with Sebastian's palm. However, instead of the expected sight of blood

"How is this possible?"

filled with shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as they were unable

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

pull the Godslayer Blade out of

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

if he was

examined the Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This

sword back!" Trey shouted in a mix of anger and

His finger trembled as he pointed at Sebastian. "You actually dared to kill two of our

think you can kill me, I

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

of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of

two really are made

you calling idiots? You're the idiot! Your

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

kill us?" Heather

both angry and afraid as he said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not just you, but

to me, I'll kill that person. If you send two, I'll kill both of them. If you send a whole army, I'll wipe them out. If your entire family comes at me, I'll exterminate every last one of

end,

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

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

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

Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live. Otherwise, I guarantee

coldly. "Whether or not I end up in a grave, you won't

you dare!"

all the experts from the

Sebastian looked at him with disdain. He took

instant, the oppressive force weighed down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed to the ground, trembling

the grandmasters struggled to remain

him!" Camden commanded

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

Instead, he used the chaos to

hand, a tremendous energy burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and the

from the Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a

of cake. The sheer

was terrifying.

ground, and

rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her

air, attempting to

in the way little Jonathan stepped forward to shield the nervous clerk and decided to let the matter drop, choosing mercy over further

again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying

nodding so hard the tight bun at the back of her head

spread through her limbs like warm

dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful glance first to Jonathan and then to

stepped between danger and the child, the day would

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

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

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

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

of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes

each ensemble Ivy had chosen started at well over ten

hovered around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes

a minor. A purchase of this scale required his

why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of

course,"

from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags

employees watched, envy shining through

could cover the down payment on a new

more.

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

Ivy guided

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

over eight million." s

would never have taken a job at

firm as bedrock.

flicked to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she

in disbelief. The wealthy, it

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

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

set the

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

to whatever gentleman keeps you

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

apairof

“You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a

moments earlier, while paying the bill, Jonathan had delivered a

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

a downward glance at Jonathan, who still wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did you have in a

and pick out

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

Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts

note curled inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but

like a

Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to

believed the first fib, it was only because

Jonathan appeared more like an adult compared to

Cecelia? She would never delegate adult shopping to

sharpened. "You've figured

Jonathan blinked, performing innocent

it comes to social-grade lying, you're still

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

asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes could

civil smile. "Why would I be?" he

for you. She skipped you completely. That proves

then snapped shut.Am I showing it that

exactly where

Jon shrugged as

tightened. The comment landed like a weight on his chest. If even a child

restroom door stayed shut far too long. Taking Elliot

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

the corridor, she almost collided with Jonathan and

them, arms loaded with

two been? And what on earth

on inspecting the loot,

he said smoothly. "Holiday tokens,

been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching

have been nice. I was

gaped, utterly bewildered. When

throat and shot Jonathan a

the constipation story on

guess I've been skimping on water lately," Jon

an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him into a full- bodied embrace

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

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

cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly as a stovetop

never imagining the confession would buy him

had been ages since Cecilia had

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

always been the model child, obedient,

unwilling to yield. "That won't do. Maybe

it with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce a lifesaving

sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you could invent, you picked constipation. Now Mom believes

them,” he whispered, the words nearly swallowed by the

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

another word, Cecilia opened her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's worth of gentle digestive

a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the small

sure how

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

on earth would he let Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He

I can manage on

She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming with

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

the bathroom with you," she said, voice low

"Okay."

and bolted down the hallway

brother's retreating and,

he really constipated? He sure doesn't look

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

hand against his chest, trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of pitiful,"

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

take

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

little photoshoot ended, she

in place, but Cecilia

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

video-called often to check on the children

little, life seemed

able to come back

so her

fingers flew across the keyboard. "Nathaniel and I have decided. We'll

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

a good while longer, then finally ended the call

change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto

holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping

eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five minutes of calm when Nathaniel

"Ceci."

jerked in surprise. "What

doing today?" His question hovered,

follow. What do you mean?" Confusion

clouded Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing,"

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

to his, worry eclipsing her earlier cheer. "What's the matter? Who

the scent of cedar from his freshly pressed shirt

she could speak

long arms

possessive motion,

though staking

have

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

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

me go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and

settling atop her hair as if the conversation were already

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

her eyes, she muttered, "Not babies? They're

my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low, laced

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

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

just regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps

།

for Jonathan, let him stay with Old Mr. Sinclair for now.

of his finger brushing her

"Hmm?"

apart from the kids, yet you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like I'm dead last

proud, composed husband was jealous of

kids outrank you. I

eyes darkened, a storm gathering behind the

Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the hallway, bare

a break for it, then sprang up and covered

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

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

he slipped inside, scooped her up again, and kicked

clicked, the deadbolt turned,

wind hissed against the windows,

white light, snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting

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

that faint roughness, then lower

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open,

murmured, drawing her even closer until her breath

up, Nathaniel. I can't breathe.” Her voice came out in

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

best friends a full day

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

could be,

this attached? I never

grin tugged at his mouth. "I

and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing

busy day ahead," she said, trying to slip

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

head. "That's

asked,

New clothes for Mom, and something nice for

else?” His tone carried a note

"Nope."

her head. He had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she

pried her

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

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

padded through quiet

1.

Elena had spirited Jon and Elliot

a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had even a sliver of sense, you'd know

a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had any

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

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

table. Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had

it was Alex-the

Sofina. She'd never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward

least this

thundered. "You're cowards! Every last one of you! From this moment on, Sofina

The room fell silent.

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

flashing Beatrix a smug grin

sneer. "Go on, Sofina -try all you want.

"Beatrix, Sofina's worth a thousand of you. She's fighting to lift this family up, while you bury it in

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

Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's

problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are

meant! I just

before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment

"Me? Envious?" she snapped. "You're a fool if

let's make this interesting. What if she does succeed?

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

outside the main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is ours foever. You

teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want

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

too! If I win, I want Nikolaus's car

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

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

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

laughing. "Ha! You're really digging your own grave, loser! Fine-I'll

said. "If you lose, I want you to divorce

win, you'll

think you can win this? I've already recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's official now.

said. "I like it when everyone

even glance at them. She

was one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could

three days to negotiate and

window. "You really

"Trust? No. Desperation?

a look. "That's supposed

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

grinned. "Hey, at least I bet on your

"You really think this bet

who's got

crossed her arms. "And what if you

"Then I'll finally fit right in with this family-bad decisions and

spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind was sharp. Today would

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

glide across the car's polished hood, “we should return this car. It's too extravagant for us. Everyone's going to

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

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

can."

"You really think this

looking away from the road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll have a new mansion to

half amused. "I

don't need it," Alex said, his grin widening. "You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you miss,

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

luck," Sofina whispered as

here, your luck's already doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the

QUMS

For a moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could carry that same

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

a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old, fractured, scandal-scarred—could

a beggar asking a banker to lend him

She'd accepted the challenge in front of the whole

Sofina slowed her pace. The lobby felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts,

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

Group. The sight said

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration with

on earth are you doing here?" a

Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim, both

the way a

sentence.

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 here to attract attention," he hissed. "I told you I won't give you any. Leave this place." "Heinrich,” she said calmly. "I'm not here for you. I'm here for the Wolfsbane- for

trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal

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

you asked us to monitor was just shoved by a guest-he forced

the

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

collar, pulled on his gloves, and strode out

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

said quietly, helping her pick them up.

Heinrich. No matter what I say, he just slips back into his arrogant

Alex asked, gently lifting

nothing serious,"

don't need to

But I like the feel of paper.

chest. "The

"You really

looked at me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes I think

as they walked back through the glass corridor

voice

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

color drained from her

saw it-the invisible chain that still

body tensed, eyes flickering, as

placing himself between Sofina

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

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

king?" Alex let out a low, sharp laugh. "Keep dreaming. You're not a king- you're just another arrogant fool. A pathetic

I am? I'm Heinrich Schiller." Heinrich's face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener. When

him anything. He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a

hurried over and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to

your place had the nerve to try and

no one here would deliberately offend you. If

Heinrich said coldly. "That's the man. Your gardener.

Group gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never

over a thousand workers in this two-hundred-floor building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt officially registered, the security androids wouldn't

seem to forget your place. I'm

you anytime

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and beg

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

is? He's one of the

he's not joining?" Alex

nothing compared to him! Now kneel

calmly, shaking his head.

be fired if you

long time. Just kneel and bow three times, and

about this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three

crowd started to gather, drawn by the rising tension.

up to Heinrich? The man really doesn't know

"That gardener's got

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

and turned

you've been desperate for my attention, haven't you? Well, now

husband's a fool who doesn't know his place.

instead? Three bows, and I

tightened around Alex's arm, her

everyone in Winchester hears about

I'll have the

nothing outcasts. And you

s

stepped forward, but Sofina grabbed him tighter

was soft but steady. "Let

searching her face. She met his eyes. "Trust

stepped forward alone.Chapter

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

curse.

in God's name do you

Group! Security robot - fetch her, give her

supporting him with a hand

lashes. She won't be standing after

Heinrich said, every syllable a command. "Give her what

until he stood toe-to-toe with Dietrich. "You'd better cancel that order," he said. "Someone's going

who'll

communication bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish

head. "I

crowd began

dare she hit Heinrich,"

you know Heinrich's the man everyone

her!" another

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

flagged a threat to her,

pinged a node nobody in the room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina had

into his network bridge

and every linked node. Any device that touched

into the network. "Override the previous command.

optical

taser and slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The shock hit him like a thrown rope; he folded

an electric whip from a holster and began lashing

followed. Dietrich's

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

most advanced," someone muttered, half

of confusion moved

robot didn't stop until Dietrich had taken twenty

hauled him to his feet and kicked him

to catch up with the chaos unraveling around

hand clutching his bleeding nose. He wiped the blood away with the

low and venomous. "I'll

his hand swinging through the

had struck Sofina

weak, but because she'd once mistaken her

his arm. "Find someone your own

slave — let go of me!" Heinrich

his temper under a hard lid. The government cameras

like an

to his knees, clutching at a hand that felt as if

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

Her heels struck the marble floor with sharp precision, aides

-

finished presenting their offer - a bid to

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

they were

promised Eden that Heinrich would cooperate if the contract went

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

was holding Heinrich down, and Heinrich

face went white with fury. She stormed over and slapped Alex

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

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

that true?" Katarina asked

She hit my

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

real power.

a noble, the punishment could be death. If

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

protected rank,

most people just accepted

the Prussia — power didn't need

turned her sharp eyes to

me jealous, to get my attention. Well, you've got it. I think that's enough. Divorce

won't divorce her. Go ahead and marry

don't have to be

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

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

you? That everyone just spins around

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

muttered. His patience with her was long gone. Just the sound of her voice gave him a

from me!" Katarina shouted. "Kneel! Now!" Katarina's voice cracked with fury and desperation. She had lost him once,

she wouldn't admit

him.

haunted her - the nights Alex cooked for her,

everything was cold

had been dreading this moment. He didn't

to put distance between them, but before he could take another step, her

him, fierce

Alex," Katarina said,

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

low and hard as steel. "You're not my wife anymore. I don't owe you a damn thing. I don't answer to

life," Katarina hissed, and her hand whipped across his face. The slap cracked through the hall like a

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

I command you

this bitch!"

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

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

of my husband," Sofina ordered. "You're his ex- don't touch him again. He isn't yours. You're

had been treated like royalty, and

the

the Rosenheim title was

their own marquis, the

and titles they were nothing more than well-fed servants

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

eager to prove their

a hand, a silver Eden security robot glided between them, its mechanical voice cutting

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

pair of tasers snapped out. Electricity flashed. The would-be attackers jerked, their muscles seized, and

unit

red-faced and unmoored robbed, for

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

out of here," she said,

love! You said you loved me! You swore you'd do anything for

“You promised to obey me, to give me your body, to destroy yourself for me!

fade, it hides behind forced gestures-empty rituals,

another android glided

collaboration. Please proceed to Meeting Room

surprise. Alex squeezed her hand. “Go,”

she

access it. These

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

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

sorry—there's been a change in location. Please follow me. Miss

"Miss Von

ma'am. She's

dazed, and followed

Group headquarters. Her

Von Adler-the most powerful

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

It didn't make sense.

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

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

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

standing before the most powerful businesswoman in Winchester-someone

trembled slightly as she answered, but she kept

met

Adler. Thank you for taking the time to see me," she said. "I came to discuss the collaboration proposal. I know the Wolfsbane Group isn't as

we

never disappoint."

to .net

folder. "This is the Wolfsbane Group portfolio.

take a look."

smile and took the file.

few pages, then closed it

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

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

out.

felt too quick-too easy. She

a long negotiation. And yet

in seconds.

her

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

she

I know who

she said softly, "is the most handsome

Sofina blinked, unsure if she'd

understand

in you. He believes in you. And that's

carried weight. Alex had instructed her not to reveal his

Scheinwald, according to your proposal, your

she said, her voice small. "Is... is that too

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

slightly. "What do

increase the contract value," Marlena said

it set at one

breath catching.

repeated, barely believing it.

retrieved a crisp contract, and slid it across the

she said. "We've already drafted the agreement-one hundred million dollars in total. If you have

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

corporations in Winchester-had not

back. "I forbid you from seeing her! If you dare bring that woman home as

his age, Mr. Everly's arm was still strong; after just a few blows, Finnian's crisp white shirt was already stained with blood, making Lisa, who

beat you to death!" and from the look in his eyes,

arm, her

at Finnian and gasping for breath,

met his gaze, her expression calm. "You should go. I'll talk

a long, searching

was gone, Mr. Everly's anger seemed to collapse into grief. He clutched Amara's hand, his voice breaking. "Ama, Finnian's out of his mind. Can't you see? He insists

threatened to fall as he squeezed

anymore. Just yesterday, Finnian had confessed his feelings to her; today, he

her voice clear. "Grandpa, there's something I've never told you, but I think you need to hear