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.

Just ten thousand gold coins were enough for someone to live comfortably for a lifetime. One million gold coins was a huge sum even for him.

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

"Fine. I'll pay!" Martin gritted his teeth, feeling as if his heart was bleeding.

Due to the large amount of gold, Sebastian only asked for gold notes.

Not long after, Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100 thousand gold coins.

Sebastian kept his word and left after receiving the notes.

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

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

like to ask

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

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

was a debt that Hendrick

least 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 a pen, then drew an image of

a professional artist, his drawing was

Wilder, is the woman in the picture your

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

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

herself, but after seeing the portrait,

in the

matching her own beauty.

explained the circumstances and timing of Fressia's

Mr. Wilder. I'll send people to find her immediately. I'm

Sebastian stayed at the chamber,

arrange for some people to take care

Brork to

Sebastian's terrifying power first hand,

was completely subdued, with no

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

just can't swallow

looked at Heather and asked, "Are you willing

"Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of

the Stonebrook family to deal

daughter then stepped out

had arrived in large

the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses of the

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

graces our

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

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

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

Mr. Stonebrook." Heather appeared slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more

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

and quickly stood up, saying, "I'm sorry, Ms. Knott,

not angry at all.

of the southern region's four major families. If Heather could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would be like a shortcut to soar

cultivation resources, her strength would surely advance by leaps and

might even secure a place among the four great

Denzel smiled a

"My

Knott once not long

love at first sight for him.

lost

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

he clapped his hands, and the

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

smaller,

Stonebrook family's betrothal gifts include 880 thousand gold coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a box of premium medicinal herbs,

gone all out. The gold coins

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

the body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and greatly enhance a warrior's

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

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

satisfied. Extremely satisfied,

does that mean you agree to

man. For him to be interested in my daughter is an honor for

inside. With the future title of

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

someone whose strength is formidable

could cause trouble for you. Who might

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

commoner.

many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later,

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

mind, we can call off the engagement,

crossed Camden's eyes. "I heard about this incident too, but I didn't know

Heather. I don't

for understanding," Heather

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

she

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

soon as we got engaged, he demanded that I sleep

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

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

Even

"I heard he should be under 30 years old. How

their skills, their lifespans increase. There are also

20s, but his real age could be

least at the early

real age is definitely

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

Heather and Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

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

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

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

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

with boundless potential and unimaginable future

and talent compensated

and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the Stonebrook

admired Heather, were equally

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

Martin, Sebastian invested in

Fressia, secure the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by

boost the cultivation of those around him once he

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

are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate.

them is for me,

"Yes, you're

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

asked, "Mr. Wilder, are you

I don't go, wouldn't I be letting them down?" Sebastian replied with

it's best if you don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their invitation is definitely not sincere it's clear they want to use the Stonebrook family's power against you."

is right. You mustn't go.

walking right

petty clowns. There's nothing to

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

unmoved. "I appreciate your

They're not worth

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

ie

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

listen to

avoided. If they're out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even

to confront them sooner rather

the entrance of

dressed in a colorful gown, with a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was Kaitlyn, the distinguished lady

Gardner, is there something you need from me?" Sebastian asked. "Are you heading to the engagement banquet?" Kaitlyn

Sebastian nodded.

word that the Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the banquet. Going there now is like walking into a trap,"

just to tell

I just happened to run into you

much about me. Could it be that you've fallen for

scoffed and turned to

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

alive. With your talent, you're destined to become

up. No more advice, please,"

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

the atmosphere was

shown great respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to personally

overjoyed. After all, by the end of today, she would be the future daughter-in-law of

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

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

Sebastian.

been keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and his

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

enters. Make sure he

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

"By the way, has my

Denzel head ran into some issues and likely won't make it today. But with the family's third elder and the seventh elder

again in

that moment, Sebastian and his companions entered

he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed

warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet

guts to come. I can't decide if I should praise your bravery

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

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

mocking smile. "Brat, today next year

kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out

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

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

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

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

from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed

engagement party. Killing someone might bring bad luck,

scoffed. "We cultivators don't care about such things. If you want to live

this, Sebastian laughed and his smile was

are you laughing at,

are so many good women out there.

You've got some

This guy must

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

stood up. They were looking ready to strike

calm and unbothered. "Mr. Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking

been practicing

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to

day, shevited me

Estate, lured me into her room, and tried

"Shut up!"

and quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting

on

him. This guy has slandered my woman-this is

you have?" Camden

energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me, but I wasn't interested in her at all, so she drugged

quickly turned to Camden and said, "Camden, he's lying! He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with him, so he's trying to slander me. You can't believe

held her hand and said, "Don't worry. No matter

evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and

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

telling the truth. Her first time was with me. If you don't believe me, you can have her

was horrified. "Camden, don't listen to him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be a joke if

guy has ulterior

uneasy under his

Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the

verify everything

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

is enough to make

felt apprehensive. While they were also

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

and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're a

"You tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep

by the way, I left a few scratch marks on her chest because

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

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned.

tricked, Heather was

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

and he was

of the southern region, with all their elders being divine

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

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

Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could do; they

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

resounding sound,

Septimus let out a pained scream and

movement, Sebastian chased him down and grabbed Septimus by the

"What?"

erupted into chaos. Everyone was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like

was

and Kaitlyn were the most shocked. Not long

person, perhaps at most a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why would he bother with

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

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

also approached Sebastian, his eyes filled

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

her face was hidden, she had

more enticing than he had imagined. He nodded and said,

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

and breaks both his hands, I'll spare

replied, "Mr. Camden, isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking his hands

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

I warn you? Why

isn't some death trap. Why shouldn't I come?" Sebastian

Kaitlyn said, "I didn't realize your strength was so formidable,

The Stonebrook

breaking your hands is the best outcome I

and replied, "Ms.

not in the habit

it's hard

than

Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but in

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

were slim, at

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook

rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder,

satisfied until I torture you for

his cultivation for

didn't need Camden's order. He was already walking toward Sebastian, his aura growing increasingly

intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on the

must be truly unfathomable.

of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability to fight beyond his level,

quickly before; this is definitely

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted, tossing

immediately drew it from its sheath. A sharp,

air, unleashing a wave

leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their

this be the Godslayer Blade

with this sword, and with it, they

Camden to

power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage

nodded in agreement. The Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be

was Sebastian,

her eyes, unable

taken her virginity,

weren't for Sebastian, she 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

started to develop some feelings for him. This was

she had come to realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers,

Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her

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

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

slumped to the ground

capture Sebastian alive, so his sword's

about to strike, Sebastian suddenly

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

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

"How is this possible?"

equally stunned

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

out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength,

exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go of the s go of the sword

he was

nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not

in a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a punch at Sebastian.Chapter

shocked. His finger trembled as he pointed at Sebastian. "You actually dared to kill two of our family's elders! Do you

can kill me, I can also kill you. It's

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

They are filled with masters of

of idiots. You two really are

are you calling idiots? You're the idiot! Your whole family is!" Heather shouted angrily

about to die, yet you still dare to shout at me. If that's not foolishness,

to kill us?" Heather was

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 everyone you care about will pay with

that person. If you send two, I'll

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

believe how

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

truly are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong

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

in

you dare!" Camden

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

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

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

to remain standing, their legs quivering with

him!" Camden commanded

the grandmasters from the Stonebrook family were filled with terror, they had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting their teeth, they rushed toward

join the fray. Instead, he used

was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood

Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a single move To

The sheer

was terrifying.

and her face

Heather. He grabbed her by

leapt into the air,

shield the nervous clerk and decided to let

ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment

tight

away did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like warm water, leaving

else's whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful glance

hadn't stepped between danger and the child, the day would have ended in chaos

unexpectedly shy. "Thank you," she murmured, sincerity softening

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

the one thanking you,"

a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added,

Jaws

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

card, uncertainty flickering

of this scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel

why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of

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

the garments from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags with practiced

watched, envy

this large could cover the down payment

more.

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

guided

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

over eight million." s

Ivy would never have taken a

said, firm as bedrock. "I'm buying

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

numbers in disbelief. The wealthy,

for choosing us." Ivy presented the card with both hands, as

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

clerk finally set the receipt

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

to whatever gentleman keeps you

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

apairof

spoke in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a

while paying the bill, Jonathan had delivered a

with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and ribbon-tied shopping bags

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

miss a beat. “Oh. Ms. Kennedy wanted me to pop in and pick out a few

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

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

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

like a sky

the cloud. He reached out, hooked his tiny pinkie around Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase

first fib, it was

Nathaniel, Jonathan appeared more like an adult compared

Cecelia? She would never delegate adult

gaze sharpened. "You've figured something out, haven't

Jonathan blinked,

out a quiet breath. “When it comes to

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

dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes could study every

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

Mom bought clothes for me and Elliot, but none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she

mouth opened, then snapped shut.Am I

where did you pick

Dad.” Jon shrugged as if

on his chest. If even a child could read him, how

stayed shut far too long.

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

almost collided with Jonathan

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

have you two been? And what on earth

intent on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel spoke

said smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing

Nathaniel was patching the hole as

nice. I was starting to wonder why you'd vanished."Chapter

When have I ever

shot Jonathan a pointed

carrying the constipation story on

been skimping on water lately," Jon

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

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

a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch of discomfort in that tiny

heat rush to his cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly as a stovetop

imagining the confession would buy him

been ages since Cecilia had hugged

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

child, obedient, courteous, eager to spare

"That won't do. Maybe we should buy medicine.

earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce

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

he whispered, the words nearly swallowed by the flush covering

pity for the boy and a glimmer of amused

tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a

the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand.

not sure

Jonathan stared at the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like a

Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his head so hard his hair whipped

I can

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

couldn't help pitying him. So young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If it lasted, a doctor's visit

she said, voice low and gentle, as

"Okay."

the box like contraband and bolted down the hallway toward the

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

He sure doesn't look it,"

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

to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of pitiful," he breathed, each syllable drifting like

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

have to take tons of

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

the little photoshoot ended, she pinged the piChapter

polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw

sent them daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the boys

return, video-called often

life seemed

able to come back for a visit?" Bethany asked,

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

We'll come right after the New Year to visit

grandpa and I will prepare every one of your favorite dishes," Bethany replied, her delight practically

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

Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their beds, fast asleep

fell into a rare hush, holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid

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

"Ceci."

in surprise.

all we're doing today?" His

don't follow. What do you

clouded Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing,"

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

worry eclipsing her earlier

of cedar from his freshly pressed shirt drawing

she could speak

arms swept out

possessive motion,

chest, as though staking

really have to

with gravel, every

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

me go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks out

tightened his embrace, chin settling atop her hair as

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

babies? They're

seven when I moved overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low,

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

an idea lit behind his eyes. "Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build some resilience. It'll give us more

"They're too little, Nathaniel. Besides, Elliot's just regained his

།

team to watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let

of his finger brushing her burning cheek. “You're

"Hmm?"

be 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

Her proud, composed

it. "Of course, the kids

storm

of Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the hallway,

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

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

plenty of spare rooms in this

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

clicked, the deadbolt turned, and darkness

the windows, but inside, heat

of white light, snow glare slicing through

an inch away. She could count

made her trace a finger over that faint

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open,

even closer

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

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

friends a full

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

now did Cecilia realize how clingy he could be, warmth and weight wrapped around her like

you this attached? I

mouth. "I was younger. Didn't know

hair, dark

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

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

head. "That's it.

you buying?” he asked, still unwilling

and something nice for Grandpa

else?” His tone carried a note

"Nope."

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

pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat.

just hates it when I leave too quickly.

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

through quiet hallways,

1.

spirited Jon and Elliot

brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had

complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had

called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with half a brain for daring to ask for collaboration.

went pale, then burned red. He

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

now, of all people, it was Alex-the outcast, the family fool-who

liked the girl. But seeing Sofina

this one had

"You're cowards! Every last one of you! From this moment on, Sofina will handle the

The room fell silent.

Grandma," she

Beatrix a

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

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

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

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

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

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

and dangerous. "No, you're not being realistic-you're being a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up as wisdom. And you

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

make this interesting. What

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

gave you that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place

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

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

in, "Count me in too! If I win,

a brow. "Alright. But what

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

half-slave, how about this—if

digging

"If you lose, I want you to

if I win, you'll accept our

a cruel sound. "You really think you can win this? I've already recorded the bet and sent

he said. "I

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

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

three days

Sofina frowned, glancing out the window. "You really think Grandma trusts me with the Eden

"Trust? No. Desperation?

a look. "That's

to someone who hasn't met this family."

least I bet on your

brow. "You really think this bet

show who's got

her arms. "And what if you

chuckled. "Then I'll finally fit right

spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind

drove the sleek black luxury car they'd won from Nikolaus-a machine so rare in Winchester that it turned

reflections glide across the car's polished hood, “we

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

the Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare buy you one, so let's enjoy it

can."

glancing at him. "You

Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll have a new

anxious, half amused. "I wish I had

got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you miss, you'll land among

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

Sofina whispered as the car touched

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

QUMS

help but laugh. For a moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could carry that

shadow of the two-hundred-story tower and felt something empty out inside her-like a

a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old,

like a beggar asking a banker

grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front

like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all dressed in tailored suits and guarded

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

Group. The sight said

all every one

of them was hono

a coffaboration with power.

earth are you doing here?" a voice

and found Heinrich standing with Katarina

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

sentence.

could you let her walk in here?" Heinrich bowed his head like a man forced to swallow bile. "I'm sorry, Katarina. I tried. I truly did. I don't understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward and grabbed Sofina's wrist in a rough. "You're here to attract attention," he hissed. "I told you I won't give you

barked, his tone thick with mockery. "You? Who the hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group. You're not worthy-none of

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

guest-he forced her out into the entrance area.

the footage,"

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

collar, pulled on his gloves,

floor, gathering a pile of scattered

her

head, frustrated. "It's Heinrich. No matter what I say,

gently

nothing serious," she

don't need to print everything. The digital

"Maybe. But I like the feel of paper. I

brushed his chest. "The same

"You

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

teased each other as they walked back through

a voice cracked

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

color drained from

that still

eyes flickering, as if

himself between

said. "You're a guest. You have

here-l expect to

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

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 I'm

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

extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you

somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out. Frankly, Eden Group

smile didn't falter; his tone tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you, tell me their

Your gardener. He insulted me and tried to

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

all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt officially registered,

closer. "You seem to forget

fire you

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and

firm. "Why should I? He's the one who tried to throw out another guest,

idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one of the brightest

he's not

compared to

said calmly, shaking his

be fired if you don't!"

time. Just kneel and bow three times, and maybe I'll let

this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three kowtows, then maybe I'll let you stay

crowd started to gather, drawn by the rising

jeered. "A gardener trying to stand up to Heinrich? The

gardener's got a name. You

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing off. He's too stupid to know

and turned

my attention, haven't you?

who doesn't know his place. How

bows, and I might forgive

Alex's arm, her

you don't, I'll make sure everyone

have the whole

you'll be nothing

s

grabbed him tighter and shook her head.

was soft but steady. "Let me

her face. She

stepped forward

a boil. "You hit

curse.

God's name do you

Mister Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot

hustled Heinrich upright, supporting him with a hand at the small of

Mister Heinrich. I've called security. Twenty lashes. She won't be

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

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

who'll get hurt is

jabbed his communication bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish

tilted his head.

began

hit Heinrich," someone

you know Heinrich's the man everyone

her!" another

its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization

the system flagged a threat to her, an alert raced through

the room expected-Eve, the household

Alex had wired her into his network bridge

monitored Alex's accounts and every linked node. Any device that touched Sofina reported to Eve first-she

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

security robot optical

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

robot drew an electric

followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop!

tilting from triumph to alarm. "Is the Eden

Group tech is already the most advanced," someone muttered, half in

confusion moved through

until

it finished, it hauled him to his feet and kicked

stood frozen, her mind struggling to catch up with

bleeding nose. He wiped the blood away with the back of his wrist, his

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

lunged toward her, his

wasn't the first time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over and over

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

and seized his arm. "Find someone your

slave — let go

temper under a hard lid. The government cameras watched from

until Heinrich screamed like

at a hand that felt

go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on his cheeks as the pressure

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

-

a bid to replace

the next

were desperater

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

into the main hall, the polished calm of

holding Heinrich down,

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

you think you're doing to my Heinrich? Let him go this instant. How dare you strike him until he bleeds-I'll call the police

"Calling the police won't help

true?"

was Sofina. She hit

wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble

Prussia, nobles still carried real power.

struck a noble, the punishment could be

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

protected rank, not

commoner, most people just accepted

power didn't need

turned her sharp eyes

you married Sofina — to make me jealous, to get my attention. Well, you've got it. I

"No. I won't divorce her. Go ahead

have

Claire

her, disbelief hardening his

That everyone just spins

already a blessing that I'm even willing to marry you. How dare you disobey me!

gone. Just the sound of her voice

away from me!" Katarina shouted. "Kneel! Now!" Katarina's voice cracked

she wouldn't admit — she

him.

though she despised him now, the memories still haunted her - the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her from the world, how he

was cold

had been dreading this moment. He didn't want to

take another step, her hand shot out and clamped around his wrist like

staring at him, fierce

to stop, Alex,"

temper." She stepped closer. "Remember when I made you kneel in the rain

hard as steel. "You're not my wife anymore. I don't owe you

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

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

command you

this bitch!" Katarina

front of Alex without hesitation. Her eyes were quiet,

Sofina caught it in one swift

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

to obedience. She had been treated like royalty, and

the whispers for

title was

stabbing their own marquis, the

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

this bitch!" Katarina shouted to the room, her voice shaking with fury. "She's spitting on my family name!

forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They moved to strike

raise a hand, a silver Eden security robot

property," it announced firmly. "Cease all hostile

The would-be attackers jerked, their muscles

violence," the security unit

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

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

get out of here," she said, pulling him

voice cracked like a whip. "You always talked about love! You said you loved me! You

your body, to destroy yourself for me! You liar! You damn bastard! Get

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

could answer, another android glided up

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

froze in surprise. Alex squeezed her hand. “Go,” he

she asked, her voice

can access it. These people won't be able

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

a poised woman in a

follow me.

"Miss Von Adler? The

ma'am. She's expecting

dazed, and followed the woman through the long,

Group headquarters. Her

Von Adler-the most powerful woman in

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

It didn't make sense.

her heels echoing off the marble floor, until they stopped in front

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

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

felt her pulse race. She was standing before the most powerful businesswoman in

trembled slightly as she answered, but she kept her tone

met

the time to see me," she said. "I came to discuss

we

never disappoint."

to .net

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

take a look."

smile and took

a few pages, then

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

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

out.

felt too quick-too easy. She had spent weeks

question, expecting a long negotiation. And yet here it

in seconds.

her

meet our usual standards. But our founder hold's your very nigh regard. He personally requested this partnership be offered to

caught. "Your founder?" she asked, her

I know who your

a faint smile. “Our founder," she said

unsure if

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

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

instructed her not to reveal his identity, and she

to your proposal, your initial quotation for the collaboration is fifty million dollars,

that's right," she said,

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

slightly. "What do

me to increase the contract value,"

it set at one hundred

her breath

repeated, barely believing it.

opened a folder, retrieved a crisp contract, and slid it across

dollars in total. If you have

at the document in disbelief. Her mind spun. Eden

powerful corporations in

Kevin Everly yanked out his cane and brought it down hard on Finnian's back. "I forbid you from seeing her! If you dare bring that woman home as your wife,

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

wouldn't listen. He kept shouting, "I'll beat you

forward and gently caught Mr. Everly's arm, her voice soft

Finnian and gasping for breath, his shoulders

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

shot her a long, searching look,

Finnian's out of his mind. Can't you see? He insists on being with that actress, as if he's completely lost his senses. Why can't he see

as he squeezed her hand, his heartbreak

She didn't even know what she felt anymore. Just yesterday, Finnian had confessed his feelings to her; today, he was determined to be with Liliana. Thinking back on the words he'd spoken to her before, Amara couldn't help but

"Grandpa, there's something I've never told you, but I

"What is it?"

Qu

cared about me, but the

was gentle but firm. She nearly

listened, utterly exhausted,

for not

l.ne

she possibly like him? For years, it had been Mr. Everly

I need

nodded. "Rest well, Grandpa.

for Amara and Finnian? He really did care for her, and he'd always dreamed She'd stay with the Everly family