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.

"Mr. Watson, I'd like to ask you for a favor," Sebastian said.

Hendrick quickly replied, "Mr. Wilder, there's no need to be so formal. Just tell me what you need."

Hendrick's respect for Sebastian had grown even deeper. Sebastian not only healed his wounds, which saved his life, but also helped him break through his cultivation bottleneck.

It was a debt that Hendrick considered a second chance at life.

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

"I need your help to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then drew an image of Fressia.

Although Sebastian wasn't a professional artist, his drawing was remarkably lifelike.

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

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

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

but after seeing the portrait, her

in the

matching her

circumstances and timing of Fressia's

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

Sebastian stayed at the chamber,

some people to

assigned Brork to protect

witnessed Sebastian's terrifying power first hand, Brork didn't dare to

was

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

just can't swallow

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

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

then ask the Stonebrook family to deal with that

and daughter then stepped

had arrived in large numbers, bringing an

Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one

was 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

your arrival truly graces our

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

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

point, saying, "I've long heard that your daughter is as beautiful as a goddess, and today I see the reputation is

she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left

"Camden, it's impolite to

quickly stood up, saying,

not angry at all. In fact, she

could become the young mistress of the

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

secure a place among the four great ladies in

Denzel smiled a

said, "My

not long ago, and

at first sight for

lost his

his appetite and many.

his father, I became anxious,

Cóntent

clapped his hands,

box of gemstones, a

box, though smaller, contained dozens of

thousand gold coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a box of premium medicinal herbs, some

out. The gold

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

improve physical constitution, extend life,

their constitution, accelerated their

Knott, are you

satisfied, actually," Martin quickly

does that mean you agree to their

man. For him to be interested in my

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

setting it for a

whose strength is formidable and who

who could cause trouble for

named Sebastian

commoner.

Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could

situation and insisted I take off my clothes before he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless

you mind, we can call off the

about this incident

Heather. I don't mind.

Camden, thank you for understanding," Heather

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

it up herself, she hoped to

But what I never expected was that

we got engaged, he demanded that I sleep

that kind of woman and naturally refused him. He then tried to force himself on me, but luckily, I managed

the table in front of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone

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

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

"As cultivators improve their skills, their lifespans increase. There are also herbs

20s,

least at the early pinnacle stage

is

just an early-stage divine grandmaster? That's

Camden's

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

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

background wasn't on par with the daughters of the four great families, her looks

showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level as

was a genius with boundless potential

her beauty and talent compensated for her comparatively modest

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

admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their

her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't want her even if she

Sebastian invested in a vast amount of herbs

secure the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by

to boost the cultivation of those around him once he got

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

getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've

invitations? One of them is for

nodded. "Yes, you're

than an attempt to use the Stonebrook family's influence to eliminate

"Mr. Wilder, are you planning to

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

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

agreement. "My father is right.

right into their

of petty clowns. There's nothing

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your concern, but those people

clowns. They're

If they dare provoke

ie

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

"Mr. Wilder, please listen

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

them sooner rather than later,Chapter

of Knott Estate, a woman suddenly blocked

with a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was Kaitlyn, the distinguished lady of the

need from me?" Sebastian

Sebastian nodded.

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

to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with a

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

to care so much about me. Could it be that you've fallen for me?" Sebastian

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed and

says so, then it's

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

mind is made up. No more advice, please,"

was marching to his doom.

was

had shown great respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to personally attend and offer their

of today, she would be the future daughter-in-law of

a woman both stunning and neredibly talented was something that would inspire envy

body had already been seen and touched by Sebastian

Sebastian.

tabs on

report just at that moment, "Mr. Camden,

the exits once he enters. Make

be able to get away, even if he sprouts wings,"

the way, has

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

again in

and his companions entered Knott

here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he spotted

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

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

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

playing dumb. Since you've come today,

mocking smile. "Brat, today next year will be

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

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

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

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

live. I can't tell if this guy is

and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian

your engagement party. Killing someone might

you want to live today, the only way is to do

this, Sebastian laughed and his smile was full

are you

really don't get it. There are so many good women out there. Why on earth did

insult my woman? You've got

lost it. This guy

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

stood up. They were looking ready to strike Sebastian

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

practicing

cultivation technique, one that

energy to

day, shevited me

her room, and

"Shut up!"

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

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

This guy has

evidence do you

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

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

her hand and said, "Don't worry. No matter what he says, I won't believe

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

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

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

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 word

this guy has ulterior motives. Don't fall

Heather for a long moment, and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he wondered, "Could this guy

stop standing around and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or not, he had

planned to verify everything

aura that felt as vast and overwhelming

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

they were also divine grandmasters, there

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

showed no fear. He smirked mockingly and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're a fool Youre allowing this malicious woman

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

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

covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned. Upon

tricked, Heather

I'll cut out

wasn't a fool, and he was infuriated

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

middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power was

pressure from his released aura alone made it hard for anyone nearby

looked on with faces full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could do; they were powerless to stop the Stonebrook family from

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

sound, Septimus' arm

a pained scream and staggered

him down and grabbed

"What?"

middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been

strength was beyond

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

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

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

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

also approached Sebastian, his

can you do me a favor? I'll have him release Septimus, and in

from the start. Although her face was hidden, she

more enticing than he had imagined. He

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

own eyes, and breaks both

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

this. This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone that

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

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

your strength was so formidable, but you still

Stonebrook

exceeds your imagination. Gouging out your eyes and breaking your

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

in the habit

hard to accept, but

miserably than to die.

to say something, but in the end, she only gave

understood that for a strong person, losing both eyes and hands was a fate worse than death. Rather than living worse than a dog, it was

slim, at least Sebastian could

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook

he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how dare

satisfied until I torture

cripple his cultivation for

He was

intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on the

cultivation must be truly unfathomable. He's probably

Trey has the ability to

level Sebastian's cultivation is? He struck so quickly

Everyone nodded in agreement.

catch the sword!" Camden shouted,

caught the sword and immediately drew it from its sheath.

air, unleashing a

seemed to plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen

this be the Godslayer Blade

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

expected Camden to

power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand against Trey Defeating Sebastian will be,

in agreement. The Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could slice through iron

Sebastian,

her eyes, unable

deeply resented the man who had taken her virginity, but after calming down and reflecting, her hatred had

preferring it to be Sebastian. At least

was why she

realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't

moment, she felt completely powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not

divine grandmaster Trey wielded the Godslayer Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It seemed as though it would

violently, creating an

weaker cultivation slumped to the

capture Sebastian alive, so his sword's target

about to strike, Sebastian

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

as the blade made contact with Sebastian's palm. However, instead of the expected sight of blood and mangled flesh, the sword stopped dead in its tracks

"How is this possible?"

Everyone present was equally stunned as they were unable to

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

energy, trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's

slight exertion of his

he was

while nodding in satisfaction. "This

anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a

was very shocked. His finger trembled as he pointed at Sebastian. "You actually dared to kill

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

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

too cocky! The Stonebrook family's power is beyond anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future

of idiots. You two really are made

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

shout at me. If that's not foolishness, I don't

kill us?" Heather was suddenly

both angry and afraid as he said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family will never let

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

end, his voice was thunderous, sending shivers

was stunned into silence. No one could believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring

everyone would have looked down on him and thought that he was lying. However, after witnessing

Our family has stood strong for over a thousand years, with countless divine

and come to my house to admit your

I end up in a grave, you

you dare!" Camden

afraid of him. He gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family

Sebastian looked at him with disdain. He

present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed to

struggled to remain

Kill him!" Camden commanded

the Stonebrook family were filled with terror, they had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting

the fray. Instead, he

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

very shocked. The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had

of cake. The

was terrifying.

and her face became pale

toward Heather. He grabbed her by

air, attempting to escape.Chapter

the way little Jonathan stepped forward to shield the nervous clerk

trust nothing like this will ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying

hard the tight bun at the back of her head

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

whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful

and the child, the day would have

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

almost grown-up,

the one thanking

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

hit the staff like a clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened, and

started at well over

card, uncertainty flickering

of this scale required his guardian's

entire rack of adult clothing, yet he trusted the

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

off, sweeping the garments from velvet hangers into

showroom, the other employees watched, envy shining through their fixed

cover the down payment on a new car,

more.

why Jonathan was buying, no

guided Nathaniel

she leaned down, voice barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of clothes.

over eight million." s

have taken a job

firm as bedrock.

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

tone chimed, she stared at the numbers in

us." Ivy presented the card with both

matching courtesy. "Ms. Ivy, I truly

clerk finally set the receipt

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

it on to whatever gentleman keeps

her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no,

apairof

baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you ever hit a rough patch, come

Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast briefing about the ruckus

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

to reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did

pop in and pick out a few

in the privacy of his own mind. Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best friend would never check up

Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts

his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci never thinks of buying any

like a sky before

gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while

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

appeared more like an

never delegate adult shopping

figured something out,

Jonathan blinked, performing

“When it comes to

expected to be exposed so fast, and the

“Are you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes

shoulders back and forced a civil smile. "Why would I

completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally

snapped shut.Am I showing it

cleared his throat. “And exactly where did you pick up on

Jon shrugged as if stating

even a child could read him, how had Cecilia never noticed? She really doesn't care, does

uneasy when the restroom door stayed

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

she almost collided with Jonathan and

noticed the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded

been? And what on earth is

forward, intent on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel

smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing

excuse had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching the hole as fast

been nice. I was

When have I

cleared his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed

resigned himself to carrying the constipation story on his

guess I've been skimping on water lately,"

around Jonathan's small shoulders and

me take you to a doctor, all right? You're far too

Cecilia's chest pinched. Only a woman who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how

rush to his cheeks until

merely confessed the problem, never imagining the

been ages since Cecilia had

I drink more water. It isn't that bad, please don't

model child, obedient, courteous, eager to

her head, unwilling to yield. "That won't do. Maybe we

said it with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce a lifesaving

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

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

soft with pity for the boy and a glimmer of amused

Cecilia opened her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's

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

embarrassed. If you're not sure how to use them, I

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

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

Mommy. I can manage on

can. You can handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that

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

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

"Okay."

and bolted down the

Elliot lounged with a plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why,

He sure doesn't look it," Elliot

a mild but warning stare. "Don't

calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really

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

to take

layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back while he

little photoshoot ended,

departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw

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

couple, in return, video-called often to

life seemed to find

and the children be able to come

belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's

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

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

with Bethany for a good while longer,

the final outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their

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

eyelids drooping, intent on

"Ceci."

surprise.

all we're doing today?" His

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

eyes. "Nothing,"

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

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

of cedar from his freshly

could speak

arms swept out

possessive motion,

his chest, as though staking a claim no one

have to

voice came out rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every syllable vibrating through the scant inches between

Cecilia's face. Her

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

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

each other? They're not babies anymore. They

eyes, she muttered, "Not babies? They're only six-maybe seven-

my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low,

genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left the

an idea lit behind his eyes. "Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for

little, Nathaniel. Besides, Elliot's just regained his

།

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

hand, the pad of his finger brushing her burning cheek.

"Hmm?"

can't stand to 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 for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like I'm dead last in that beautiful heart

did it click. Her proud, composed husband was jealous of his own

the kids outrank you. I risked my life to bring them into this

eyes darkened, a storm

down the hallway, bare feet whispering

it, then sprang up and covered the distance

to swing the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice low and

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

no match for his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her up again,

the deadbolt turned, and

windows, but inside, heat pooled between

light, snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting the room

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

made her trace a finger over that faint roughness, then lower

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open, hazy

her even closer until her breath mingled with

came out

closed his eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just a little longer."

promised her best friends a

and mumbled, "Give

could be, warmth and weight wrapped around her like an

this attached? I

grin tugged at his mouth. "I was younger.

laughed and ruffled his hair, dark

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

hit the mall

shook her head. "That's it.

you buying?” he asked,

Mom, and

a note of suspicion wrapped

"Nope."

slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every hanger she touched, as if color and cut were

mood darkened by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers

He just hates it when I

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

rose, padded through quiet hallways, and stepped onto

1.

Elena had spirited Jon and Elliot

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

only a complete fool like Alex could think the

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

face went pale, then burned red. He

own kin had mocked

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

seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the

least this

"You're cowards! Every last one of you!

The room fell silent.

worry, Grandma," she said.

crossed his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin that made her

"Go on, Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag the

you. She's fighting to lift this family up, while you bury it

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

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

Do you not

fast. "No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal, that's all!

realistic-you're being a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed

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

deep, mocking sound that filled the room. "Then let's make this interesting. What if she does succeed? Want to make a

You think I'm scared?

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

Sofina fails, I

leaning back with a half-smile. "Then

in, "Count me in too! If I

a brow.

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

about this—if you lose, you kneel ten times and admit you're lower

out laughing. "Ha! You're really digging your own grave,

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

said calmly. "But if I win, you'll accept our marriage- no

this? I've already recorded the bet and sent the document

"Perfect," he said. "I like it

glance at them. She couldn't care less about their

the Wolfsbane family could actually secure that collaboration with the Eden

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

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

"Trust? No.

a look. "That's supposed to

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

at least I bet on your

brow. "You really think this

course," Alex said. "It'll show who's

"And

finally fit right in with this family-bad

she'd spent the entire night

luxury car they'd won from Nikolaus-a

“we

the wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy for a gardener

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

can."

"You really think this

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

half anxious, half amused. "I

enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon;

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

Sofina whispered as the

doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener of the Eden Group. That means

QUMS

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

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

façade rose into the sky like a polished god. The idea

to partner with them was like a beggar asking a banker to lend him the

she'd promised her grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front of the whole

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

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

The sight

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration

What on earth are you doing

found Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim, both

the way a judge's did

sentence.

keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward and grabbed Sofina's wrist in a rough. "You're here to attract attention," he hissed. "I told you I won't give you any. Leave this place." "Heinrich,” she said calmly. "I'm not here for you.

are you trying to fool? Even

a security drone glided

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

me the footage,"

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

collar, pulled on his gloves, and strode

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

he said quietly, helping her pick

"It's Heinrich. No matter what I say, he just slips

hurt you?" Alex asked, gently lifting her chin, checking

nothing serious," she

handed her the last sheet. "You know, you don't need to

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

hand brushed his chest. "The same way I like touching

"You really are

than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes I think it'd be better to live without all these

walked back through the

a voice cracked the

Heinrich barked, stepping forward. "What the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I don't want you near

color drained from her

it-the invisible chain that

vanish overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as

forward, placing himself between Sofina and

said. "You're a guest. You have no

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

"Keep dreaming. You're not a king- you're just another

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 finished, you'll be out of a job.” "You can try,"

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

"Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you joined our efforts-Winchester's

a derisive snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try

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

said coldly. "That's the man. Your gardener. He insulted me and

spotted Alex in his Eden Group gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you

a thousand workers in this two-hundred-floor building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't

seem to forget your place. I'm Dietrich Wedell,

I can fire you

and beg

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

you have any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one

if he's not

respect. You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel

Alex said calmly, shaking his head. "I

if you don't!" Dietrich

a long time. Just kneel

"How about this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three kowtows, then maybe

to gather, drawn by the rising tension. Laughter rippled through

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

"That gardener's got a name. You know

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

that Alex? The walking mistake of Winchester?

smirked and turned

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

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

Three bows, and

hand tightened around Alex's arm, her

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

I'll have

nothing outcasts. And you know I can make that

s

forward, but Sofina grabbed him tighter and shook

soft but steady. "Let me

She met his

stepped forward alone.Chapter

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

curse.

God's name do you

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

with a hand

won't be standing after that her flesh will tell

it," Heinrich said, every syllable a

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

one who'll get hurt is

jabbed his communication bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish this

his head.

began to

dare she hit Heinrich,"

know Heinrich's the man

her!" another voice

ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its

the system flagged a threat to her,

room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina had left

machine. Alex had wired her into his network bridge so she

node. Any device that touched Sofina reported to

network. "Override the previous command. Secure

security robot optical sensors swung

slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The shock

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

the skin opened, and dark lines of blood followed. Dietrich's

alarm. "Is the Eden

is already the most

confusion moved

didn't stop until Dietrich had taken twenty

feet and kicked him out, shoving him past the main entrance like

stood frozen, her mind struggling to catch up with the chaos unraveling

wiped the blood away with the back of his wrist, his face

voice low and venomous. "I'll teach

lunged toward her, his

time. Heinrich had

she was weak, but because she'd once

and seized his arm. "Find someone your own size," he said, low

— let go of me!"

kept his temper under a hard lid.

his grip until Heinrich screamed like an animal, pain

a hand

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

like a storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the marble floor with sharp precision, aides trailing behind her in nervous

-

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

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

were desperater

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

calm of her diplomacy shattered. What she

down, and Heinrich bled

stormed over and slapped Alex hard. "You half-slave!" she

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

her eyes and released Heinrich's arm. "Calling the police won't help

true?"

Sofina. She hit my nose."

what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue

carried real power. The law bent for

punishment could be death. If a commoner

severe and swift. More often than not, the blame

law protected rank, not

a noble struck a commoner, most people just accepted it. That was

— power

her sharp

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

divorce her. Go

don't have to be

for you and for your Sant Claire family. When im done with Heinrich, if you behave yourself, I'll let

his

everyone just spins around

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

muttered. His patience with her was long gone. Just the sound of her voice gave him a headache. He took Sofina's hand and turned to

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

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

him.

now, the memories still haunted her - the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her from

Heinrich, everything was cold and

dreading this moment. He didn't

turned, trying to put distance between them, but before he could take another step, her hand shot out and

turned and found her staring at him, fierce and cold, while his other arm still held

Alex," Katarina said, every word

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

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

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

it something else trembled — a flash of tears she fought

I command you

this bitch!" Katarina

Her eyes were

hand tightened on Alex. Sofina caught it in one swift move

ex- don't touch him again.

used to obedience. She had been treated

the

the Rosenheim title was bought

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

silks and titles they were nothing more

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

to Katarina's will and some Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They moved to

a silver Eden security robot glided between

is permitted on Eden Group property,"

flashed. The would-be attackers jerked,

violence," the security unit repeated. "Please remain calm and await

stood there, red-faced and unmoored robbed, for the moment, of the

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

of here," she

whip. "You always talked about love!

your body, to destroy yourself for me! You liar! You

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

could answer, another android glided up

interview for the collaboration. Please proceed to Meeting Room 01.

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

about you?" she asked, her voice

access it. These people won't be able to follow." He smiled

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

a poised woman in a tailored suit stepped in. "Miss Sofina?" she

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

blinked. "Miss Von Adler?

She's expecting

still dazed, and followed the

Group

Marlena Von Adler-the most powerful woman

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

It didn't make sense.

didn't come twice. She followed the assistant through the long corridor, her heels echoing off the marble floor, until they stopped in front of a taff metal door engraved with the

her in. Inside, Marlena Von Adler-the legendary chairwoman of Eden Group-rose gracefully from behind her desk. Her presence

hand. "I'm Marlena Von Adler,

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

answered, but she kept her tone

met

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

we work hard.

never disappoint."

to .net

folder. "This is the Wolfsbane

take a look."

smiled—a calm, knowing smile and took

a few pages, then closed it

already reviewed your documents. I believe

"Really? You mean... it's

out.

easy. She had spent weeks rehearsing every

expecting a long

in seconds.

leaned back, her expression unreadable

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

caught. "Your founder?" she asked,

I know

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

blinked, unsure

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

in you. And

carried weight. Alex had instructed her not to reveal his identity, and she obeyed

Miss Scheinwald, according to your proposal, your initial quotation for the

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

easily.

"What do you

founder instructed me to increase the

wants it set at

widened, her breath catching. "One... hundred million?"

repeated, barely believing it.

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

hundred million dollars in

at the document in disbelief. Her mind spun.

most powerful corporations in Winchester-had not

brought it down hard on Finnian's back. "I forbid you from seeing her! If you dare bring that woman home as your wife, I'll throw

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 crisp white shirt was already stained with blood, making Lisa, who

but Mr. Everly wouldn't listen. He kept shouting, "I'll beat you to death!" and from the look in

Mr. Everly's arm, her voice

finally stopped, glaring at Finnian and gasping for breath,

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

a long, searching look, then turned and walked

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

as he squeezed her hand, his

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

never told you, but I think you need

"What is it?"

Qu

but the truth is our relationship has never

tone was gentle but firm. She nearly said outright that she had no

grandson. Mr. Everly listened, utterly exhausted, guilt weighing

for

l.ne

years, it had been Mr. Everly Finself, swallowing his pride

"Ama, I'm tired. I need to lie down

nodded. "Rest well, Grandpa. I'll

unable to sleep. Was there truly no hope for Amara and Finnian? He really did care for her, and he'd always dreamed She'd stay with the Everly family become Finian's wife. But now, after what she'd said-and with

to dwell

He'd changed his

Chapter 365

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looking away, steeling herself as

But Finnian spoke up.

"That's not necessary-"

just want to talk to you," he

hesitated, but she knew it was time to put things to rest between them. She nodded, walked out to