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.

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

Abigail had always been confident in herself, but after seeing the portrait, her confidence wavered-the

woman in the drawing g

easily matching her own beauty. s

Sebastian then explained the circumstances and timing of Fressia's disappearance.

"Don't worry, Mr. Wilder. I'll send people to find her immediately. I'm sure we'll have news soon," Hendrick assured him with conviction.

chamber, waiting for updates.

arrange for some people to take care of

he assigned Brork to protect

power first hand, Brork

single word of refusal. He was

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

just can't swallow this

and asked, "Are you willing to marry

without hesitation, "Mr. Camden is an outstanding

today and then ask the Stonebrook family to deal

and daughter then stepped out

Stonebrook family had arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance of

middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family

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

Mr. Camden, your arrival truly graces our humble Knott Estate," Martin said with

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

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

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

you for the compliment, Mr. Stonebrook." Heather appeared slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes

to

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

bashful smile. She was not angry at all. In fact, she felt quite

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

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

even secure a place among the four great ladies in

Denzel smiled a

"My son

not long

love at first sight for him.

he lost his

his appetite and many.

his father, I became anxious, soove

Cóntent

done speaking, he clapped his hands, and the

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

though smaller, contained dozens of

include 880 thousand gold coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a

to admit, the Stonebrook family had truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880 thousand,

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

cleanse the body, improve physical constitution,

significantly improved their constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even helped them break

Knott, are you satisfied with

Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin

does that mean you agree to their marriage?" Denzel

"Of course. Mr. Camden is a remarkable man. For him to be interested in my daughter is an

With the future title of daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family, who

settled on the wedding date, setting it for

whose strength is formidable and who is

region, there aren't many people who could cause trouble for you. Who might this

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

commoner.

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

I take off my clothes before he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not just to reveal how despicable he

we can call

heard about this incident too, but I didn't

I don't mind. It wasn't your

you for understanding," Heather forced

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

it up herself, she hoped to handle the situation

I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but a beast. He's worse

soon as we got engaged, he demanded that I sleep with

not that kind of woman and naturally refused him. He then tried to force

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

Camden, that scoundrel is very strong. Even

heard he should be under 30 years old.

There are also herbs and pills

in his 20s, but his real age could

cultivation is at least at the early

real age is definitely well over

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

of Heather and Camden's engagement spread

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

the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it was

didn't seem that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the daughters of the four

importantly, her talents were remarkable. The Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing

boundless potential and

her beauty and talent compensated for her comparatively modest

hearing 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 ascending to the heavens

especially those who secretly admired Heather,

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

Sebastian invested in a vast amount of herbs

the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by

to stockpile pills now to boost the

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

are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott

of them is for

nodded. "Yes,

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

are you planning

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

you to the core and their invitation is definitely not sincere it's clear they want to

is right. You mustn't go.

walking right into their

bunch of petty clowns. There's nothing

strong, but the Stonebrook family has many powerful figures. If you go

Hendrick warned.

to .net

appreciate your

They're

they leave me alone, fine. If they dare provoke

ie

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

please listen

can't be avoided. If they're out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even if

them sooner rather than

group approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman suddenly blocked their

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

from me?" Sebastian asked.

Sebastian nodded.

kill you at the banquet. Going there now is like walking into a trap," Kaitlyn

to tell me this?" Sebastian asked

into you and thought I'd give you a

didn't expect you to care so much about me. Could it be that you've

Kaitlyn scoffed and turned

Wilder, if Ms. Gardner says so, then it's surely true. Why don't we turn

you're destined to become a peerless

made up. No more advice, please," Sebastian

to his doom. All they could probably do now was

Knott Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled

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

all, by the end of

face was beaming. To have Heather a woman both

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

Sebastian.

keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and

report just at that moment,

down all the exits once he enters. Make sure he doesn't escape," Camden ordered with a vicious

Everything is in place. He won't be able to

"By the way,

But with the family's third elder and the seventh elder here, dealing with that brat will be more than

nodded again in

and his companions entered

here?" Korbin exclaimed

was also taken aback. She had already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan,

"Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I can't decide if I should

exactly a dragon's lair. Why

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

smile. "Brat, today next year

chimed in right after. "Don't say I didn't give you a chance. If you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out your own eyes, and break your own hands, I'll

here to congratulate you, so

Camden sneered. "I invited you here just to kill you. You're

that just because he came to congratulate the couple, Mr.

let him live. I can't tell if

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

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

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

and his smile

immediately grew furious. "What are you

so many good women out

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

it. This guy

chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now he's probably wishing for death to be an

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the Stonebrooks' third elder, Trey Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood

Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth. You don't know how

been practicing

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to enhance

One day,

lured me into her room, and

"Shut up!"

while snapping, "Stop spouting

Heather on purpose. You can't believe a word he

don't believe him. This guy has slandered my

evidence do you have?"

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

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

No matter what he says, I

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

slander my woman right in

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

Even if an

quickly chimed in, "Camden, this guy has ulterior

for a long moment, and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as

ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or

Camden planned to verify everything as soon

powerful aura that felt as vast and

enough to make me

apprehensive. While they were also divine grandmasters, there were clear

stage, whereas Septimus was

some sense in you, but you're a fool Youre allowing this malicious

or I'll make sure you wish you were dead!" Camden snapped angrily. Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep

left a few scratch marks on her chest because

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

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon

Heather

swear I'll cut out your tongue and feed it

and he

of the

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

his released aura alone made it hard for anyone nearby

Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little

reached out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed he would succeed,

a resounding sound, Septimus' arm

let out a pained

chased him down and grabbed

"What?"

middle- stage

was

long ago,

a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster

initially stunned, then erupted in fury. "I've really underestimated you. If you

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

approached Sebastian, his eyes

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

already noticed Kaitlyn from the start. Although her face was hidden, she had an undeniable allure that piqued

more enticing than he had imagined. He nodded and said, "I'll

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

breaks both his hands, I'll spare

out his eyes and breaking his hands

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

and whispered, "Didn't I warn

death trap. Why shouldn't I

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

Stonebrook

imagination. Gouging out your eyes and breaking your hands is

replied, "Ms. Gardner,

in the

know it's hard

miserably than

Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but in the end,

strong person, losing both eyes and hands was a fate worse than death. Rather than living worse

slim, at

"Septimus!"

of the Stonebrook family

as he shouted, "Sebastian

I won't be satisfied until I torture

his

didn't need Camden's order. He was already walking

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

a powerful aura. Trey's cultivation must be truly unfathomable. He's probably

Trey has the ability to

struck so quickly before;

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a

the sword and immediately drew it

blade resonated through the air, unleashing a

plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their hearts were

this be the Godslayer Blade

This is our Stonebrook family's Godslayer Blade. Our ancestors once roamed the world with this

stunned. They hadn't expected Camden to carry the Godslayer Blade with

Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand against Trey

was a renowned magical artifact, said to

Sebastian,

unable to bear

deeply resented the man who had taken her virginity, but after

weren't for Sebastian, she would have been defiled by that old scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted to save her. That all made his

was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was

strength far

Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her entire Netherworld Sect would dare

Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white

surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere

cultivation slumped

aimed to capture Sebastian alive, so his sword's target was Sebastian's

strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out to grab the

his expression filled with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with

the expected sight of blood

"How is this possible?"

with shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned

with his bare hand! This is

the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He

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

he was jolted by

the Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not bad.

mix of anger and panic,

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

If you think you can kill me, I can also kill you.

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

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

pair of idiots. You two really are made for each other,"

the idiot! Your whole family

shout at

You really plan to kill

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

person. If you send two, I'll kill both of them. If you send a whole army, I'll wipe them

he spoke. By the end, his voice was thunderous,

silence. No one could believe how

everyone would have looked down on him and thought that he was lying. However, after witnessing Sebastian's terrifying strength, everyone was very afraid of

of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over a thousand years, with countless divine grandmasters and

over the Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then,

in a grave, you won't

dare!" Camden

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

with disdain. He

on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed

remain standing, their legs quivering with

him!" Camden commanded

filled with terror, they had

didn't join the fray. Instead,

a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent flying. Before they even hit the ground,

very shocked. The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped

cake. The

was terrifying.

collapsed to the ground, and her face became pale

Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed

leapt into the air, attempting

nervous clerk and decided to let the matter drop, choosing

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

the tight bun at the back of

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

whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful glance first to Jonathan and then to

danger and the child, the

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

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

Ivy, I should be the one thanking you," he replied, voice clear as a

a sleek matte card. Holding it up,

a clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened,

Ivy had chosen started at well over ten thousand,

hovered around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes

this scale required

understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack

"Of course," she

garments from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags with practiced

employees watched, envy shining through

could cover the down payment on a new

more.

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

guided Nathaniel

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

over eight million." s

hadn't asked her, Ivy would never have

said, firm

objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card

stared at the numbers in disbelief.

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

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

clerk finally set

indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the mannequin. "Consider this my gift, he

it on to whatever gentleman keeps you

across her shoulders. "Oh,

apairof

baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a

delivered a lightning-fast briefing about the ruckus that

them like silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers,

thigh, and asked, "What business did you have in a men's boutique in the

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

privacy of his own mind. Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and

"Your Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts you," he

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

mood darkened like

tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase

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

Nathaniel, Jonathan appeared more like

never delegate adult

sharpened. "You've figured something

blinked, performing

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

the realization sent a tremor

lashes lifting so his wide eyes could study every flicker on Nathaniel's

a civil smile. "Why would I be?" he

none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she

mouth opened, then snapped shut.Am I showing it that

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

face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as if stating

weight on his chest. If even a child could read him, how had Cecilia never

door stayed shut far too long.

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

she almost collided with Jonathan

bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded with shopping

have you two been? And what

on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel

smoothly. "Holiday

excuse had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was

would have been nice. I was starting to

bewildered. When have I

Jonathan a pointed

resigned himself to carrying the constipation story on

I've been skimping on water

her eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him into a full- bodied embrace that

doctor, all right? You're far too

through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch of discomfort in that tiny body can split a mother's heart wide

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

problem, never imagining the confession would

since Cecilia had hugged him

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

child, obedient, courteous, eager to spare adults

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

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

silent misery. Great, sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you could invent,

need them,” he whispered, the

soft with pity for the boy and a glimmer of amused

opened her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered

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

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

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

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

Mommy. I can manage

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

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

bathroom with you," she said, voice low and

"Okay."

box like contraband and bolted down

He watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why, felt sweat break across

sure doesn't

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

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

subject with an exaggerated burst of cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on," she said,

Mommy, you have to take

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

little photoshoot ended,

Queenie's departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but

including short clips of the

in return, video-called often

seemed to

to come back for a visit?"

knew Cecilia now belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled

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

prepare every one of your favorite dishes," Bethany replied,

for a good while longer, then

after the final outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot

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

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

"Ceci."

surprise. "What is

doing

follow. What do you mean?" Confusion

clouded Nathaniel's eyes.

room. Something inside Nathaniel was storming, evident from the faint tension at his jaw

lifted her face to his, worry eclipsing her earlier cheer.

scent of cedar from his freshly pressed shirt drawing her

could speak

arms

possessive motion,

her against his chest, as though staking a claim no

have to

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

Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened

Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees this,

settling atop her hair

people holding each other? They're not babies anymore. They should understand," he

she muttered, "Not babies? They're only

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

slipping past her

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

just regained his health, and Jonathan

།

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

the pad of his finger brushing her

"Hmm?"

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

click. Her proud, composed husband was jealous of

course, the kids outrank you. I risked my life to bring them

darkened, a storm

down the hallway, bare

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

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

"There are plenty of spare rooms in this house. Pick any one

his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he

clicked, the deadbolt turned, and darkness enveloped

wind hissed against the windows,

in a burst of white light, snow glare slicing through the curtains and painting the room

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

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

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open, hazy with

drawing her even closer until her breath mingled with

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

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

her best friends a full

arms and mumbled, "Give me a few

clingy he could be, warmth and weight

this attached? I never

slow grin tugged at his mouth. "I was

hair, dark strands springing up

busy day ahead," she

hit the mall with

head. "That's

asked,

Mom, and

else?” His tone carried a note

"Nope."

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

the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose, voice low and

it when I leave too quickly. With that familiar assumption,

until the silence felt like a weight on

padded through quiet hallways,

1.

spirited Jon and Elliot off to

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

like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had any chance

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

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

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

all people, it was Alex-the outcast, the family

never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the old

least this one had

last one of you! From this moment on,

The room fell silent.

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

his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin

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

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

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

Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's dream—and I believe in my

Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking your own grandmother's got half a brain?

That's not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina

coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started.

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

make this interesting. What if she

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

gleamed. "I heard the Baroness gave you that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place

if Sofina fails, I want both of you out

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

chimed in, "Count me in too! If

her, raising a brow. "Alright. But

"I won't lose.

me a half-slave, how about this—if you lose, you kneel ten times

really digging

too," Felicia said. "If you

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

the bet and sent the

he said. "I like

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

Wolfsbane family could

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

glancing out the window. "You really think Grandma trusts me with

"Trust? No.

"That's supposed to make me

"If you want comfort, talk to someone

bet on your victory. Isn't that

"You really think this

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

crossed her arms. "And

I'll finally fit right in with

she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her

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

“we should return this car. It's too

chuckled, one hand casually resting on the wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy for a gardener like me,"

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

can."

"You really

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

half amused. "I wish I had

said, his grin widening. "You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if

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

me luck," Sofina whispered as the car touched

stepped out and walked around to open her door. "With me here, your luck's already doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener of the Eden Group. That means you've got

QUMS

her nerves eased. She wished she could carry that

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

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

to partner with them was like a beggar

accepted the challenge in

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

their voices low but tense, each

The sight

all every one

of them was hono

the same thing: a

are you doing here?"

standing with Katarina

the way a judge's

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.

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

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

just shoved by a guest-he forced

the footage," Alex

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

pulled on his gloves,

gathering a

quietly, helping her pick them

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

gently lifting

nothing serious," she

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

like the feel

his chest. "The same way I like touching

chuckled. "You really are

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

they walked back through the

voice

forward. "What the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay away from

The color drained from

saw it-the invisible chain that still

vanish overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if waiting for

placing himself

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

a guest here-l expect to be treated

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

sent me an invitation—said I should run

him anything. He brings

of human resources, hurried over and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you joined our efforts-Winchester's finest

join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out. Frankly,

tone tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove

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

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

building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here.

to forget your place.

can fire you anytime I want. Now, you've offended

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and

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

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

he's not joining?" Alex asked

You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel before

said calmly, shaking his head.

be fired if you don't!"

"Come on, Alex. We've known each other a long time. Just kneel and bow three times, and maybe I'll let

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

by the rising tension. Laughter rippled through them like

gardener trying to stand up to Heinrich?

got a name. You know who he

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

The walking mistake of Winchester? No

and turned to

desperate for my attention, haven't you?

husband's a fool who doesn't know his

and I might forgive

hand tightened around Alex's arm,

tone darkened. "If you don't, I'll make sure everyone in

I'll have the

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

s

stepped forward, but Sofina grabbed him tighter and

but steady. "Let me

She met his

stepped forward

was red as a boil. "You hit

curse.

in God's name do you

dare you strike Mister Heinrich inside Eden Group! Security robot

a hand at the small of

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

a command.

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

"The one who'll

communication bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish this

tilted his head. "I warned

began

hit Heinrich,"

know Heinrich's

another

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

flagged a threat to her, an alert raced through the building's

the household robot Sofina had left at home,

home machine. Alex had wired her into his network bridge so she could talk to

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

snapped into the network. "Override the previous command. Secure Dietrich

robot optical sensors

it produced a taser and slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The shock

drew an electric whip from a

skin opened, and dark lines of blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop! Not me - her!

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

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

ripple of confusion

didn't stop until Dietrich had taken

it finished, it hauled him to his feet and kicked him out, shoving him past the

to catch up

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

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

toward her, his hand swinging through

time. Heinrich had

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

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

— let go of

a hard lid. The government

like an animal, pain folding him

to his knees, clutching at a hand that felt

go! How dare you let me go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on his cheeks as the pressure

storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the

-

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

become the next family tied

were

promised Eden that Heinrich would cooperate if the contract went to

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

was holding Heinrich down, and Heinrich bled

face went white with fury. She stormed over and

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

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

that true?" Katarina

hit my nose."

arms and held herself steady. "So what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble

still carried real power. The law

struck a noble, the punishment could be

noble, the penalties were severe and swift. More often than

protected

people just accepted

Prussia — power didn't need to

turned her sharp

attention. Well, you've got it.

I won't divorce her.

have to be

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

his face. "Do you really think the

to you? That everyone just

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! I command you

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

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

she wouldn't admit — she

him.

her - the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her from the world, how he cared for her without needing

everything was cold and

dreading this moment. He didn't want to

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

her staring at him, fierce and cold, while his

told you to stop, Alex," Katarina said,

in the rain for three days

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

my husband, you're my dog for life," Katarina hissed, and her hand whipped across his face. The slap cracked through the hall like a gunshot. "Don't you dare defy me, Alex.

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

I command

this bitch!"

hesitation. Her eyes were quiet, but they held frost. "I pity you," she

hand tightened on Alex. Sofina caught it

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

had been treated like royalty, and she'd made

heard the

title was

their own marquis, the

treachery, that beneath their silks and titles they

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

eager to prove their loyalty. They moved to

robot glided

permitted on Eden Group property," it

a pair of tasers snapped out. Electricity flashed. The would-be attackers jerked, their muscles seized, and they dropped hard to the floor,

the security unit repeated. "Please remain calm

unmoored robbed, for the moment,

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

here," she said,

a whip. "You always talked about love! You said you loved

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

love begins to rot and fade, it hides behind forced gestures-empty rituals, hollow vows, or even violence

Alex could answer, another android glided

scheduled interview for the collaboration. Please proceed to Meeting Room 01. I can escort

hand. “Go,” he said

about you?" she asked, her voice

authorized personnel can access it. These people won't be able to follow." He smiled faintly,

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

later, the door opened and a poised woman in

so sorry—there's been a change in location. Please follow me. Miss Von Adler would like

Von Adler? The

ma'am. She's

dazed, and followed the

of Eden Group headquarters. Her thoughts

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

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

It didn't make sense.

the long corridor, her heels echoing off the marble

Adler-the legendary chairwoman of Eden Group-rose gracefully from behind her desk. Her presence filled the room like

Marlena said warmly, extending her hand. "I'm Marlena Von

was standing before the most powerful businesswoman in Winchester-someone people usually met only in

answered, but

met

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

we work hard.

never disappoint."

to .net

folder. "This

take a look."

and took the file. She opened

few pages, then

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

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

out.

She had

long

in seconds.

leaned back, her expression unreadable

she said, "the Wolfsbane Group doesn't fully meet our usual standards. But our founder

caught. "Your founder?" she asked,

I know who your

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

unsure

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

He believes in you. And that's

had instructed her not to reveal his

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

"Yes, that's right," she said, her

said easily. "In fact,

frowned slightly. "What

instructed me to increase

at one hundred

eyes widened, her breath catching.

repeated, barely believing it.

a crisp contract, and slid it across the polished desk

agreement-one hundred million dollars in total. If you have

in disbelief. Her mind spun. Eden Group-one

in Winchester-had not oChapter

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

cane echoing through the room. Despite his age, Mr. Everly's arm was still

kept shouting, "I'll beat you to death!" and from the look

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

glaring at Finnian and gasping for breath, his shoulders heaving

expression calm. "You should go. I'll talk to Grandpa," she

her a long, searching look, then turned and walked

Everly's anger seemed to collapse into grief. He clutched Amara's hand, his voice breaking. "Ama, Finnian's out of his mind. Can't you see? He insists on being with that actress,

threatened to fall as he squeezed her hand, his

pressed her lips together, unable to respond. She didn't even know what she felt anymore. Just yesterday, Finnian had confessed his feelings to her; today, he was determined to be with Liliana.

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

"What is it?"

Qu

end up together. You wanted that because you thought Finnian cared about me, but the truth is our relationship has never been good. Finnian rarely

She nearly said outright that

Everly listened, utterly exhausted, guilt weighing

blame Amara for not wanting

l.ne

at fault. After all the ways Finnian had treated her, how could she possibly like him? For years, it had been Mr. Everly Finself, swallowing his pride and pushing for them to be together-he knew that

"Ama, I'm tired. I need to lie down for a while. You

"Rest well, Grandpa. I'll see

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 Finman acting the way he did-it all seemed impossible.

deeply, no longer wanting to dwell

found Finnian still in the living room. He'd changed his shirt, and his wounds looked

Chapter 365

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at him briefly before looking away, steeling

up. "Let me give

"That's not necessary-"

just want to talk to you," he added quickly, sensing

them. She nodded, walked out to his car, and

this can't be real,"

her grandmother, who had

it would come with such generosity. Now they weren't

they had been given

as she looked up at Marlena, eyes wide

and awe.

you,” she whispered. "Thank

every touch a performance. He was arrogant, restless, and never

the best way - a man who didn't need to be asked to

losing that

crisis, she thought bitterly. It's

at

life out of

and trembling, "Alex, I'm warning you! Kneel — and

grin widened, vile and confident. "You're lucky to have my attention Start kneeling, sweetheart. Maybe I'let your husband keep his job. And

a moment, everything

smiled. Not softly-but

shot forward and cracked across his face.