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.

Then, Sebastian stayed at the chamber, waiting for updates. He also asked

Hendrick to arrange for some people to take care of Jenna.

Additionally, he assigned Brork to protect her in secret.

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

a single word of refusal. He was completely subdued, with no thoughts of escaping.

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

"Father, I just can't swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter 660

Martin looked at Heather and asked, "Are you willing to marry the Stonebrook's heir?"

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

today and then ask the Stonebrook

father and daughter then stepped out to greet

large numbers, bringing an

man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses of the southern

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

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

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

Please, come in." Martin led the father and son into the sitting room and had

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

slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his

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

quickly stood up,

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

four major families. If Heather could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook

Stonebrook family's cultivation resources, her strength would surely advance by

even secure a place among the four great ladies in the

Denzel smiled a

said, "My

once not long ago, and

love at first

he lost

his appetite and many.

As his father, I became

Cóntent

speaking, he clapped his hands, and

were filled with gleaming gold coins. They were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs, a box of antique paintings, a box of aged wine, and

though smaller, contained dozens of

box of top-grade gemstones,

Stonebrook family had truly gone all out. The

scarce in the market. When Martin and Heather heard about the Purification

body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and greatly enhance a

consumed by warriors, these pills significantly improved their constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even helped them

proudly, "Mr. Knott, are you satisfied with

Extremely satisfied, actually,"

mean you agree

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

feeling shy, but she was overjoyed inside. With the future title of

it for a year later. Martin then mentioned Sebastian

recently provoked someone whose strength is formidable and

southern region, there aren't many people who could cause

scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's

commoner.

many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later, when

would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had no way to

call off the engagement, Mr.

about this incident too, but

worry, Heather. I don't

Heather forced out a

many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the Stonebrook

herself, she hoped

reputation, I agreed to marry him. But what I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but

as we got engaged, he demanded that I sleep with

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

him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who

is very strong. Even my father couldn't defeat

30 years

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

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

That brat's cultivation is at least at the early pinnacle stage

is

he just an early-stage

of Heather and Camden's engagement spread quickly,

the southern region, Camden would typically only marry into one of the other three great

Heather had a decent status as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it was still far from matching the prestige of the four great

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

five rings, placing her on the same level as

a genius with boundless

beauty and talent compensated

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

admired Heather, were equally disheartened,

beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else;

Sebastian invested in a vast amount of

the third stage of the cultivation

the cultivation of those around him once he got

periodically to rest. One day, after finishing his pill refinement session, Hendrick came to see

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

invitations? One of them is

nodded. "Yes,

than an attempt to use the Stonebrook family's

Wilder, are you planning

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

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

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

walking right

a bunch of petty clowns. There's nothing to fear," Sebastian responded

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

remained unmoved. "I appreciate your concern, but those people

clowns. They're not

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

ie

families in the southern

please listen to us and don't

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

confront them sooner rather than

and his group approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a

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

Sebastian asked. "Are you heading

Sebastian nodded.

to kill you at the banquet. Going there now

tell me this?" Sebastian asked with

into you

about me. Could

scoffed

if Ms. Gardner says so, then

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

is made up. No more advice, please," Sebastian said

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

atmosphere was festive and filled

great respect by sending Korbin and his

of the main figures of the day, Heather was overjoyed. After all, by the end of today, she would be the future daughter-in-law of the

his face was beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning and neredibly talented was

and touched by Sebastian So the only way to

Sebastian.

tabs on

that moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian

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

worry, Mr. Camden. Everything is in place. He won't be able

"By the way,

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

nodded again

Sebastian and his companions entered Knott

Korbin exclaimed in surprise

already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still showed up. Was he

Sebastian while gritting her teeth. "Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts

exactly a dragon's

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

a mocking smile. "Brat, today next year will be

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

hand and said, "You invited me to your engagement party. I came here to congratulate you, so

Camden sneered. "I invited you here just to

an idiot. He thinks that just because he came to

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

aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done to her, seeing

said, "Today is your engagement party. Killing someone

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

and his smile was

furious. "What are you laughing at, you

good women out there. Why on earth did you choose someone as despicable as Heather

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

lost it. This guy must be

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

stood

remained calm and unbothered. "Mr. Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth. You don't know how despicable Heather

been practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

day, shevited me

Estate, lured me into her room,

"Shut up!"

Sebastian while

just slandering Heather on purpose. You can't

responded, "Of course, I don't believe him. This guy

evidence do you

Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried

lying! He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with

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

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

my woman right in front of

Her first time was with me. If you don't believe me, you can have her checked. If I'm lying, you can do

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

has ulterior motives.

she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts

standing around and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth

Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as

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

alone is enough to make me almost suffocate.

While they were

stage, whereas Septimus was a middle-stage divine grandmaster, significantly stronger than

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

Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to

by the way, I left a few scratch marks on her chest because I got a bit rough. They're probably

Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned.

tricked, Heather

Even now, you're spouting lies! I swear I'll cut out your tongue and feed it to the

wasn't a fool, and he was infuriated

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

a middle-stage divine grandmaster.

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

flashed with worry. But there was little they could do;

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

sound, Septimus'

out a pained scream and staggered

Sebastian chased him down and grabbed Septimus by the

"What?"

A powerful middle- stage divine

strength was beyond

long ago,

warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why would

you. If

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

approached Sebastian, his eyes filled with murderous

me a favor? I'll have him release Septimus, and in return, you spare

Although her face was hidden, she had an undeniable allure that

found her even more enticing than he had imagined. He

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

own eyes, and breaks both his hands,

isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking

This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a

I warn you?

isn't some death trap. Why shouldn't I

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

Stonebrook family

and breaking your hands is the best outcome I could negotiate

smiled lightly and replied, "Ms.

the

hard to accept,

five miserably than

but in the end,

a fate worse than death. Rather than living worse than

slim, at

"Septimus!"

the Stonebrook family

rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how dare

I won't be satisfied

cripple his cultivation for

need Camden's order. He was already walking

presence intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on the hard diamond-stone

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

but it's said that Trey has the ability to fight beyond

struck so quickly

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Camden shouted, tossing a long sword to

it from its sheath. A sharp,

the air, unleashing a wave of terrifying

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

this be the Godslayer Blade

with this sword, and with

Camden to carry the Godslayer Blade

doomed now. With the added power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand against Trey Defeating Sebastian will be, piece of

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

was Sebastian, empty-handed-what

unable to bear watching

the man who had taken her virginity, but after

found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted to save her. That all made his actions somewhat

Sebastian a bit more, she even started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was in danger—she simply

she had come to realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't

powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her entire Netherworld Sect would dare provoke

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

few miles surged violently, creating

weaker cultivation slumped

aimed to capture Sebastian alive, so

to strike, Sebastian suddenly

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

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

"How is this possible?"

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

This is insane!" "What

trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip.

calmly. With a slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go of the s go

he was jolted

in satisfaction. "This sword

a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a

he pointed at Sebastian. "You actually dared to kill two of our family's elders!

you think you can kill me, I can also

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

is beyond anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future

of idiots. You two really are

the idiot! Your whole family is!"

sneered. "You're about to die, yet you still dare to shout at

plan to kill us?" Heather was

said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not just you, but everyone you care

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

By the end, his voice was thunderous,

believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring his intent to

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

remarked, "You truly are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over a thousand

can fight us alone? Hand over the Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live. Otherwise, I guarantee you won't even have a

up in a grave,

dare!" Camden

the experts from the Stonebrook family

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

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

to remain standing, their legs quivering

Kill him!" Camden

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

join the fray. Instead, he used

boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent

crowd was very shocked. The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family

of cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

to the ground, and her face became

rushed toward Heather.

air, attempting to escape.Chapter

nervous clerk and decided to let the matter

Nathaniel said, his voice

the tight bun at the

did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread through her limbs

she offered a quick, thankful glance first to Jonathan and

between danger and the child, the day

unexpectedly shy. "Thank you," she

smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly

I should be the one thanking you," he

Jonathan slipped a hand into the miniature pocket of his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it

announcement hit the staff like a clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened, and the boutique fell into

had chosen started at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended

around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she sought Nathaniel's

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

Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult clothing,

"Of course," she said,

garments from velvet hangers into satin-lined bags with

employees watched,

this large could cover the down payment on a new

more.

was buying,

guided Nathaniel

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

over eight million." s

asked her, Ivy would never have taken a job at a boutique

necessary," Jonathan said, firm

to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she

in disbelief. The wealthy, it seemed, spent money the way others breathed

the card with both

matching courtesy. "Ms. Ivy,

finally set the

worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the mannequin. "Consider

"Pass it on to whatever gentleman keeps

widened, first in wonder, then alarm. A quick shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's far too expensive," she blurted, hands rising like a

apairof

had listened in silence until now, spoke in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you ever

Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast briefing about the

silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and ribbon-tied

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

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

own mind. Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and

expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy

note curled inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy

darkened like a

the cloud. He reached out, hooked his tiny pinkie around Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty sure that one

Nathaniel had believed the first fib, it was only

appeared more like an

would never delegate adult shopping

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

blinked, performing innocent

let out a quiet breath. “When it comes to social-grade lying, you're still rough

and the realization sent a tremor of startled admiration through

unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes could study every flicker on Nathaniel's

"Why

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

then snapped shut.Am I showing

exactly where did you pick up

Jon shrugged as if stating simple

a child could read him, how had Cecilia never noticed? She really

the restroom door stayed shut

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

in the corridor, she almost

arms

And what on

inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel spoke

gifts,” he said smoothly. "Holiday

Nathaniel was patching the hole as fast as

I was starting to wonder

bewildered. When have I ever been

Jonathan a pointed look.

the constipation story on

been skimping on water lately,"

moment Cecilia understood what was happening, concern flooded her eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and

right? You're far too little to struggle

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

rush to his cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly

imagining the confession would buy him this long-lost

had been ages since Cecilia had hugged him

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

always been the model child, obedient, courteous, eager

yield. "That won't do. Maybe we

the way surgeons announce

lies you

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

soft with pity for the boy and a glimmer of

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

the gate like a

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

at the plastic-wrapped suppositories,

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

I can manage on

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

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

said, voice low and gentle, as

"Okay."

the box like contraband and bolted down the hallway toward

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

He sure doesn't look it,"

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

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

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

Mommy, you have to take tons

One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back while he struck every pose his

little photoshoot ended, she pinged the piChapter

polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the sorrow

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

elderly couple, in return, video-called often to check

seemed to find its rhythm

the children be able to come

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

and I have decided. We'll come right after the New Year to

as you can. Your grandpa and I will prepare every one of your favorite dishes," Bethany replied, her delight practically shimmering through

for a good while longer, then

outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto

Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags

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

"Ceci."

jerked in surprise. "What is

doing today?"

do you mean?"

Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing,"

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

earlier cheer. "What's the matter?

took a single step closer, the scent of cedar from

she could

arms swept out

possessive

as though staking a claim

really have to

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

Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened as

Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees this, it'll

settling atop her hair as if the conversation were already

awkward about two married people holding each other?

babies? They're only

was seven when I moved overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low, laced with a faint, almost childish

genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left

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

heart squeezing. "They're too little, Nathaniel. Besides, Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps Old Mr.

།

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

the pad of his finger brushing

"Hmm?"

yet you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and

composed husband

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

eyes darkened, a storm gathering

arms and bolted down

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

one hand against the panel, his voice low and teasing. "Why lock me out? Are you really

of spare rooms in this house.

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

deadbolt turned, and darkness enveloped the

the windows, but inside, heat pooled between

in a burst of white light, snow glare slicing through the

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

faint roughness, then lower to the soft curve of

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open,

drawing her even closer until her breath mingled

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

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

friends a full

"Give me a few more minutes.

realize how clingy he could be,

were you this attached? I never

mouth.

laughed and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing up beneath her

busy day ahead," she said, trying

after you hit the mall with your friends, that's all, right?

head. "That's it.

you buying?” he asked,

clothes for Mom, and something nice for

His tone carried a note of suspicion wrapped

"Nope."

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

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

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

shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like a weight on his ribs Sleep had scattered, and there was no coaxing

quiet hallways, and stepped

1.

Jon and Elliot off

idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice

truly believed that only a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had any chance of working with the

called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with

red. He spun toward the Baroness.

Wolfsbane's 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 pride, had

of all people, it was Alex-the

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

least this one had

of you!" she thundered. "You're cowards! Every last one of you! From this

The room fell silent.

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

arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin that made her blood

exhaled sharply through her nose, lips curling into a sneer. "Go on, Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag the rest of us

worth a thousand of you. She's fighting to lift this

Alex -the real embarrassment of this family!

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

Beatrix-what's your real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like

just think

realistic-you're being a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's

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

sound that filled the room. "Then let's make this interesting. What if

think I'm scared? Name your terms,

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

"But if Sofina fails,

Alex said, leaning back with a half-smile. "Then let's see who ends

"Count me in too! If I win, I want Nikolaus's car

her, raising a

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

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

really digging your own grave, loser! Fine-I'll

said. "If you lose, I want you

didn't flinch. "Fine," he said calmly. "But if I win, you'll accept our marriage- no more insults, no

I've already recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry.

he said. "I like

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

family could actually secure

have three days to

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

smirked. "Trust? No. Desperation?

him a look. "That's

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

grinned. "Hey, at least I bet on

brow. "You really think this

said. "It'll show who's got

"And what if you

"Then I'll finally fit right in

in the passenger seat, clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent the

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

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

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

grandmother and mother wouldn't

can."

glancing at him. "You

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

half anxious, half amused. "I wish I had your

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

Eden Group's towering headquarters, its glass

me luck," Sofina whispered as

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

QUMS

nerves eased. She wished she could carry that same unshakable optimism

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

polished god. The idea that the

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

accepted the challenge in front of the whole house. There was no turning

felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all dressed

low but tense, each waiting for

Group. The

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration

What on earth are you doing here?" a voice

Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim,

lips tightened the way a

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,"

fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group. You're not worthy-none

was still buttoning up his Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided into the

guest-he forced her out into the entrance area. Do you want

me the footage," Alex

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

his collar, pulled on his gloves, and strode out toward the

floor, gathering a pile of scattered papers. He

said quietly, helping her pick them up.

matter what I say, he just slips back into his arrogant

asked, gently lifting her chin, checking for

nothing serious," she

know, you don't need to print everything.

I like the feel

"The same way

"You really

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

teased each other as they walked back through the glass corridor

voice

"What the hell are you doing here? I told you to

froze. The color

saw it-the invisible chain that still tied her

years of control doesn't vanish overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if

stepped forward, placing himself between Sofina and

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

to be

Alex let out a low, sharp laugh. "Keep dreaming. You're not a king- you're just

me an invitation—said

Don't give him anything. He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a

and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you

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

falter; his tone tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you, tell me their name

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

furrowed. "I've never seen you

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

seem to forget your place. I'm

Resources. I can fire you

and

He's the one who tried to throw out

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

he's not

if he doesn't, he deserves your respect. You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I make

said calmly, shaking his head.

fired if

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

low and dangerous. "How about this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three kowtows, then maybe I'll let you stay

gather, drawn by the rising tension. Laughter rippled through them like

stand up to Heinrich? The man really doesn't

voice joined in. "That gardener's got a name. You know who

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

chuckled. "Oh hell, that Alex? The walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing

and turned to

for my attention,

fool who doesn't

and I might

Alex's arm, her knuckles

make sure everyone in Winchester hears about this. You have offended Heinrich

have the

you-even the Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing outcasts. And you know I

s

him tighter

was soft but steady. "Let

She met

Sofina stepped forward

as a boil. "You hit me, bitch-"

curse.

do you think you're doing, bitch!"

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

hustled Heinrich upright, supporting him with a

Twenty lashes. She won't be standing after that

said, every syllable a command.

cancel that order," he

one who'll get hurt

"Security

his head. "I warned

crowd began to close

dare she hit Heinrich," someone

know Heinrich's the man everyone

another

security unit glided forward and ran its routine: ID scan, threat

flagged a threat to her, an alert raced

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

had wired her into his network bridge so she could

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

the previous command.

security robot optical

Dietrich's chest. The shock hit him

security robot drew an electric whip from a holster and began

blood followed. Dietrich's shout

noise tilting from triumph to alarm. "Is

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

confusion moved

robot didn't stop until Dietrich had

and kicked

her mind struggling to catch up with the chaos

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

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

his hand swinging

had struck

not because she was weak, but because she'd once mistaken her submission for

on Heinrich and seized his arm. "Find someone your own size,"

slave — let go

hard lid. The government

until Heinrich screamed like an

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

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

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

-

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

Eden's favor, to become the next family

were

promised Eden that Heinrich would cooperate if the contract went to

polished calm

down, and Heinrich bled and

stormed over and slapped Alex

Let him go this instant. How dare you strike him until

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

true?" Katarina asked

Sofina. She hit my

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

carried real

a noble, the punishment could

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

law protected rank,

people just

Prussia — power didn't need to

sharp eyes to

know why you married Sofina — to make me jealous, to get my attention. Well, you've

I won't divorce her. Go ahead

don't have to be

you and for your Sant Claire family.

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

everyone just spins around your

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 divorce that woman and come back to me. You've caused enough

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

voice cracked with fury and desperation. She had lost him once, and

she wouldn't admit —

him.

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

Heinrich, everything was

He didn't want to face

them, but before he could take another

and found her staring at him, fierce

stop, Alex," Katarina

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

I don't owe

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

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

command

bitch!"

Her eyes were quiet,

caught it

ordered. "You're his ex- don't touch him again. He isn't yours.

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

heard the

the Rosenheim title

their own

silks and titles they were nothing more than well-fed servants gnawing on their master's

her voice shaking with fury. "She's spitting on my family name! Slap her-make her remember who

eager to prove their loyalty. They moved to strike

could raise a hand, a silver Eden security robot glided between them, its mechanical voice cutting through the

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

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

security unit repeated. "Please remain calm

robbed, for the

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

of here," she said, pulling

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

promised to obey me, to give me your body, to destroy yourself for me! You liar! You damn bastard! Get back

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

could answer, another android glided

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

surprise. Alex squeezed her hand. “Go,”

she asked, her

head to the garden. Only workers and authorized personnel can access it. These people won't

Alex," Sofina whispered, then followed the android down the corridor. The robot stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The person in charge will arrive shortly."

poised woman in a tailored suit stepped

me. Miss Von Adler would like to meet

"Miss Von Adler? The

ma'am. She's expecting

still dazed, and followed

Group headquarters. Her thoughts

Marlena Von Adler-the most powerful woman

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

It didn't make sense.

understand why, Sofina knew an opportunity like this didn't come twice. She followed the assistant through the long corridor, her heels echoing off the marble floor, until they stopped in front of a taff metal door engraved with the Eden Group

Inside, Marlena Von Adler-the legendary chairwoman of Eden Group-rose

her hand. "I'm Marlena Von

standing before the most powerful businesswoman

as she answered, but she kept her tone

met

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

we work

never disappoint."

to .net

folder. "This is

take a look."

smile and took

a few pages, then

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

"Really? You mean... it's

out.

She had spent weeks rehearsing every

expecting a long negotiation. And yet here

in seconds.

back, her expression unreadable

standards. But our founder hold's your very nigh regard.

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

"May I know who your

she said softly, "is the most handsome man I've ever

unsure

understand when the time

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

but her tone carried weight. Alex had instructed her not

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

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

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

frowned slightly. "What

instructed me to increase the contract value," Marlena

it set at one hundred million

her breath catching. "One...

repeated, barely believing it.

contract, and

agreement-one hundred million dollars in total.

document in disbelief. Her mind spun. Eden Group-one

in Winchester-had not oChapter

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 out on

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

kept shouting, "I'll beat you to

Mr. Everly's arm, her voice soft but steady. "Grandpa,

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

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

searching look, then

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

as he squeezed her hand, his heartbreak

her; today, he was determined to be

something I've never told you, but I think you

"What is it?"

Qu

you thought Finnian cared about me, but the truth is our relationship has never been good. Finnian rarely shows me any respect, I would

firm. She nearly said outright that she had no interest

grandson. Mr. Everly listened, utterly

blame Amara for

l.ne

After all the ways Finnian had treated her, how could she possibly like him? For years, it had

wearily. "Ama, I'm tired. I need to

"Rest well, Grandpa. I'll

she left, Mr. Everly lay in bed, tossing and turning, unable to sleep. Was there truly no hope for Amara and Finnian? He really did care for her, and he'd always dreamed She'd stay with the Everly family become Finian's wife.

no longer wanting to dwell on it, and finally closed

He'd changed his shirt, and his

Chapter 365

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before looking away, steeling herself as

spoke up. "Let me

"That's not necessary-"

to you," he added quickly, sensing her

put things to rest between them. She nodded, walked

this can't be real," she murmured, her voice

of her grandmother, who had dreamed of a collaboration like this

with such generosity. Now

they had been

shook slightly as she looked

and awe.

you,” she whispered. "Thank you

a deal, every touch a performance.

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

him, life had warmth. And losing that

she thought bitterly. It's the ordinary

silence at dinner, the ache of realizing you've

out of

desperate and trembling, "Alex, I'm warning

sweetheart. Maybe I'let your husband keep his job. And if you take off your clothes while you're at it, might even

moment,

Sofina smiled.

could blink, her fist shot forward and cracked

square on his

splattered. Heinrich stumbled back, clutching his face, howling in shock

the crowd gasped.

u are."

both know why you're here. You came chasing my attention, and

sight you're fucking

the entrance like a man hauling out

dare try to step foot in here again. I'm done with

over."

landing on her backside as the folder burst open, papers scattering across the marble steps. Heinrich glared

just make sure you take

Lucian would end up together. What mattered was that she could finally pull herself out of the pain Dorian had caused her

back. A few days later, Liliana set the internet ablaze with a single

in front of a house. Liliana's arm was

face was blurred, but anyone could tell he was the CEO-no, now the Chairman of

photo was captioned: "So grateful to have you." It looked almost exactly

it feel so

their relationship, speculation they'd get married someday. But the Everly Group had never acknowledged

down Liliana's post either. Their silence was approval enough-everyone understood now that Liliana and Finnian were truly

was suddenly flooded with messages, all wishing

The moment she walked on, people flocked around her,

attention like this. Maintaining her

?