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?"

Heather replied without hesitation, "Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of course I'm willing."

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

The father and daughter then stepped out to greet their guests.

Meanwhile, the Stonebrook family had arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance of betrothal gifts.

Leading them was a dignified middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses of the southern region.

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

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

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

honor. Please, come in." Martin led the father and son into

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

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

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

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

angry at all. In fact, she felt

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

strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only a matter of time before

secure a place among the

Denzel smiled a

said, "My son

once not long

love at first

lost

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

clapped his hands, and the servants

by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs, a box

smaller, contained

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

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

them extremely scarce in the market.

physical constitution, extend life, and greatly

constitution, accelerated their

are you

satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin

you agree to their

a remarkable man. For him to be interested in my daughter is an honor for us. How

inside. With the future title of

date, setting it for a year later. Martin

is formidable and who is extremely

people who could cause trouble for you. Who might this person be?" Denzel asked

named Sebastian

commoner.

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

of the situation and insisted I take off my clothes before he would treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not just to reveal how despicable he is, but also to be upfront about

mind, we can call off

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

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

understanding," Heather

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

up herself, she hoped

reputation, I agreed to marry him. But what I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but a beast. He's worse

soon as we got engaged, he demanded

then tried to

Camden was furious, smashing the table in front of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares to

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

under 30 years old. How could he be

their lifespans increase. There are

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

That brat's cultivation is at least at the early pinnacle stage of diving grandmaster, strongerthan the

is

an early-stage divine grandmaster?

of Heather and Camden's engagement spread

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

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

it didn't seem that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par

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

genius with boundless potential and

talent compensated for her comparatively modest

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

those who secretly admired Heather, were equally

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

coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in

was to find Fressia, secure the third stage of the cultivation

to boost the cultivation

process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One day,

Wilder, Heather and Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott

One of them is for me, I

"Yes,

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

Wilder, are you

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

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

is right. You

right into their

bunch of petty clowns.

the Stonebrook family has many

Hendrick warned.

to .net

unmoved. "I appreciate your concern, but those people

just clowns. They're not

leave me alone, fine. If they

ie

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

Wilder, please listen

they'll cook

confront them sooner rather than

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

veil partially hiding

Sebastian asked. "Are you heading to the engagement

Sebastian nodded.

the banquet. Going there now is

to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with a

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

me. Could it be that you've fallen for me?"

dreaming." Kaitlyn scoffed and

Wilder, if Ms. Gardner says so, then it's surely true.

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

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

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

Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled

local powerhouse, the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by

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

equally pleased, and his face was beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning and

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

Sebastian.

been keeping tabs on

that moment,

all the exits once he enters. Make

worry, Mr. Camden. Everything is in place. He won't be able to get away, even if he sprouts

the way, has my

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

again

that moment, Sebastian and his companions entered Knott

he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise

family's plan, yet he still

You actually had the guts to come.

lightly and said, "This place isn't exactly a

you've

a mocking smile. "Brat, today next year

down, admit your

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

invited you here just to

such an idiot. He thinks that just because he came to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden would let him

him live. I

only Kaitlyn seemed

looked at Camden and said, "Today is your engagement party. Killing someone might bring bad

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

his smile

"What are

and said, "Mr. Camden, I really don't get it. There are so many good women

You've got some nerve!" Camden fumed

This

might have had a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now

Everyone nodded in agreement.

stood up. They were looking ready to

yet. Hear me out. I was simply speaking the truth.

been practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

energy to enhance

day, shevited me

her room, and tried

"Shut up!"

and quickly interrupted Sebastian while

he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You can't

don't believe him. This

evidence do you

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

that I broke off the engagement

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

an evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone

laughed angrily. "To slander my woman right in front of me... you've got

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

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

chimed in, "Camden, this guy has ulterior

and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he wondered, "Could this

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

for Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as

that felt as vast and overwhelming

grandmaster? Just the aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers said

like Korbin and Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they were also divine grandmasters, there were clear differences in

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

some sense in you, but you're a fool

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

way, I left a few scratch marks on her chest because I got a bit rough.

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

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned. Upon

tricked, Heather was

lies! I swear I'll cut

and he

major families of the southern region, with all their elders being

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

made his move, the pressure from his released aura alone

and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could do; they were powerless to stop the

to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed he would

a resounding sound, Septimus'

out a pained scream and staggered back

Sebastian chased him down and grabbed Septimus

"What?"

A powerful middle- stage

strength was

Not long ago, Sebastian had participated

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

"I've really underestimated you. If you release Septimus now,

he's from the Stonebrook family! If

Sebastian, his eyes

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

her face was hidden, she had an

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

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

eyes, and breaks both his

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

Gardner, I consider myself rather kind for offering this. This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in

to Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I warn

isn't some death trap. Why

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

Stonebrook

Gouging out your eyes and breaking your hands is

replied, "Ms. Gardner, I appreciate your

in the habit

it's hard to accept,

five miserably than to die. IfChapter

but in the end, she only gave

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

the chances were slim, at least Sebastian could die fighting

"Septimus!"

members of the Stonebrook family erupted in

rage as he shouted,

I won't be satisfied until I

cripple his cultivation

truth, Trey didn't need Camden's order. He was already walking toward

footfall left

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

said that Trey has

is? He struck so quickly before; this is definitely going to be

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Camden shouted,

the sword and immediately drew it from its sheath. A sharp, clear

the air, unleashing a wave of terrifying killing

seemed to plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had

the Godslayer

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

was stunned. They hadn't expected Camden to carry the

is doomed now. With the added power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine

was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could slice through

here was Sebastian,

unable to bear

her virginity, but after calming down and reflecting,

be Sebastian. At least Sebastian

more, she even started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was

strength far surpassed hers,

completely powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not

pinnacle stage of divine grandmaster Trey wielded the Godslayer Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It seemed

within a few miles surged violently, creating

with weaker cultivation slumped to the

alive, so his sword's target was

to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved,

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

of the expected sight of blood and mangled flesh, the sword stopped dead in its tracks as it was caught

"How is this possible?"

eyes widened, filled with shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as

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

desperately channeled his energy, trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength, but

it over," Sebastian said calmly. With a slight exertion of his

he was jolted

while nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is

back!" Trey shouted in a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists

His finger trembled as he pointed at Sebastian. "You actually

"Either kill or be killed. If you think you can kill me, I can also kill you.

I'm warning you. I'm the

can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top

really are made

are you calling idiots? You're the idiot! Your

still dare to shout at me. If

really plan to kill us?" Heather

me, our family will

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, sending

believe how brazen Sebastian was,

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

of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over a thousand years, with

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 grave to be

or not I end up in

you dare!" Camden

of him. He gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as they were ready

He took

down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster

the grandmasters struggled to remain standing, their legs

Kill him!" Camden

filled with terror, they had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting their teeth, they rushed toward

didn't join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos

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

Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a single move

The

was terrifying.

the ground, and her face

that moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He

the air, attempting

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

again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight

the tight bun at

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

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

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

to Jonathan, her posture unexpectedly shy. "Thank you,"

smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly composed

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

into the miniature pocket of his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added,

clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened, and the boutique

knew each ensemble Ivy had chosen started at well over ten

fingers hovered around the card, uncertainty flickering

this scale required his guardian's word.

why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult clothing,

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

garments from velvet hangers

the showroom, the other employees watched,

cover the down payment on a

more.

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

guided

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

over eight million." s

would never have taken a job at a boutique this

Jonathan said, firm

objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card through the polished

numbers in disbelief. The

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

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

set the receipt

pivoted toward Ivy. With a flourish worthy of a stage magician, he indicated a slate-gray wool blazer on the

marble. "Pass it on to whatever gentleman

eyes widened, first in wonder, then alarm. A quick shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no,

apairof

Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket

paying the bill, Jonathan had delivered a

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

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

to pop in and pick out a few

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

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

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

mood darkened like

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

fib, it was only because Vivian's eccentricity made

appeared more like an adult compared to

never delegate adult shopping to a

"You've figured something

Jonathan blinked, performing

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

the

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

back and forced a civil smile. "Why would

clothes for me and Elliot, but none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced,

snapped shut.Am I showing

exactly where did

Jon shrugged as if stating

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

stayed shut far

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

in the corridor, she almost collided with Jonathan

arms loaded with shopping bags

two been? And what on earth is

inspecting

smoothly. "Holiday tokens,

excuse had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was

would have been nice. I was

When have I ever

Jonathan

to carrying the

I've been skimping on water lately,"

Cecilia understood what was happening, concern flooded her eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him into a full- bodied embrace that smelled of warm vanilla and

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

who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch of discomfort in

his cheeks until his

confessed the problem, never imagining

since Cecilia had hugged him like

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

model child, obedient, courteous, eager to

yield. "That won't do. Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation sometimes needs glycerin suppositories, doesn't

earnest gravity, the

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

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

boy and a glimmer of

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

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

sure how to use

suppositories, despair dropping like a

near this particular battlefield. He shook his

I can manage on

She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that only made the

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

she said, voice low and gentle,

"Okay."

like contraband and bolted down the hallway toward the

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

he really constipated? He sure doesn't look it," Elliot muttered around

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

jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of pitiful," he breathed, each syllable

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

Mommy, you have to take tons

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

little photoshoot ended, she pinged the

smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw the sorrow

take root, she sent them daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the

in return, video-called often

life seemed

be able to come back for a visit?" Bethany

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

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

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

aloud, chatted with Bethany for a good while longer,

the final outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their beds, fast asleep

Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and

drooping, intent on stealing five minutes

"Ceci."

surprise.

all we're doing

What do you

Nathaniel's eyes.

room. Something inside Nathaniel was storming, evident from the faint tension at his jaw and the way his gaze refused to

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

single step closer, the scent of cedar from his freshly

could speak

long arms swept

possessive motion,

his chest, as though staking a claim no one could

have

voice came out rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every syllable vibrating

Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened as she tried to twist free, finding

"Stop it, let me go! If Elliot or Jonathan

embrace, chin settling atop her

married people holding each other? They're

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

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

arched, genuine amazement slipping past her irritation.

arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build some resilience.

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

།

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

finger brushing her burning

"Hmm?"

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

composed

course, the kids outrank you.

a storm gathering behind the calm

down the hallway, bare feet whispering

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

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

"There are plenty of spare rooms

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

the deadbolt turned, and darkness

against the windows, but inside, heat pooled between

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

her eyes to find Nathaniel's face less than an inch

faint roughness, then lower to the soft curve of his

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open,

even

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

hold by a fraction, closed his eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just a

her best friends a full day of

and mumbled, "Give me a few more minutes.

realize how clingy he could be, warmth

you this attached? I

mouth. "I

his hair, dark strands springing

I have a busy day ahead," she said, trying to slip

you hit the mall with

shook her head. "That's it.

buying?” he asked, still unwilling to

for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa and

tone carried a note of suspicion wrapped in

"Nope."

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

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

He just hates it when I leave too quickly. With that

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

padded through quiet hallways, and stepped

1.

Jon and Elliot

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

fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had any

idiot with half a

pale, then burned red. He spun

had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her so-called pride, had done nothing but

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

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

this one had

last one of you! From this moment on,

The room fell silent.

Grandma," she said. "I'll do my

a smug

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

this

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

even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I

he turned toward Beatrix, eyes narrowing, "you just sit here sneering. Tell me, Beatrix-what's your real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking your own grandmother's got

I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that

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

Envious?" she snapped. "You're a fool if you think any

make this interesting. What if she does succeed? Want to

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

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

teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want

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

"Count me in too! If

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

arms, chin lifted. "I won't lose.

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

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

me in too," Felicia said. "If you

I win, you'll accept our marriage- no

bet and sent the document

"Perfect," he said. "I like it when everyone

She couldn't care less

was one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could

nonsense." She roared. "Sofina, you have three days to

home, Sofina frowned, glancing out the window. "You

"Trust? No.

"That's supposed to make me

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

I bet on your victory.

really think this bet will prove

show who's got guts

crossed her arms. "And what if

"Then I'll finally fit right in with this

in the passenger seat, clutching a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but

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

uneasily, watching the reflections glide across the car's polished hood, “we should return this

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

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

can."

"You really think this

sign, Sofina. We're on our way

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

me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot

the Eden Group's towering headquarters, its glass walls

luck," Sofina whispered as the car touched

door. "With me here, your luck's already doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener of the Eden Group. That means you've got an insideron your

QUMS

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

felt something empty out

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

Eden to partner with them was like a beggar asking a

accepted the challenge in front

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

but tense, each waiting for their turn

The sight

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration with

on earth are you doing

standing with Katarina Rosenheim,

like hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the

sentence.

let her walk in here?" Heinrich bowed his head like a man forced to swallow bile. "I'm sorry, Katarina. I tried. I truly did. I don't understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward and

hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother

up his Eden Group gardener uniform when a security

a guest-he forced her out into the entrance area.

the footage,"

Heinrich's hand clamped around Sofina's arm,

his collar, pulled on his gloves, and

a pile of scattered papers. He knelt beside

quietly, helping her pick them up.

matter what I say, he just slips

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

serious," she

the last sheet. "You know, you don't need to print everything. The digital files are

like the feel of paper. I like

brushed his chest. "The same way I like

chuckled. "You really

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

they walked back

voice cracked the

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

The color drained

invisible chain that still tied

overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if waiting for his approval... or

forward, placing himself between

"You're a guest. You have no authority to

to be treated like a king. Where's your manager?

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

of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener. When I'm finished, you'll be out of a job.” "You can try," Alex said, calm as

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

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

out a derisive snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out. Frankly, Eden

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

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

furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you pretending to be one of our employees by

this two-hundred-floor building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt

forget your place. I'm

you anytime I

and

stood firm. "Why should I? He's the one who tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't even

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

not

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

shaking his head. "I

be fired if you don't!" Dietrich

other a long time. Just kneel and bow three times, and

was low and dangerous. "How about this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three

to gather, drawn by the

at that," someone jeered. "A gardener trying to stand up to

"That gardener's got a name. You

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

smirked and turned to

for my attention, haven't you?

who doesn't know his place. How

bows, and

hand tightened around Alex's arm, her knuckles

I'll make sure everyone in Winchester hears about

I'll have the

Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing

s

him tighter and

but steady.

face. She met

stepped forward alone.Chapter

face was red as a boil. "You hit me, bitch-" He spat

curse.

you think you're

inside Eden Group! Security robot - fetch her, give

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

won't be standing after that her flesh

a command. "Give her what she

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

who'll get hurt

jabbed his communication bracelet. "Security — attend.

head. "I warned

began

dare she hit Heinrich,"

know Heinrich's the man

another voice

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

flagged a threat to

the household robot Sofina

had wired her into his network bridge so she could talk to every Eden

device that touched Sofina reported to Eve first-she was Sofina's

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

robot optical sensors swung toward

a taser and slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The shock hit him like a

an electric whip from a holster and began lashing

Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop! Not me - her! You're whipping the

triumph to alarm.

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

of confusion moved

stop until Dietrich had taken

to his feet and kicked him out, shoving him past the main entrance

stood frozen, her mind struggling to catch up with the

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

and venomous.

toward her, his hand swinging through the

time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over and

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

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

let go

his temper under a hard lid. The government cameras

his grip until Heinrich screamed like an

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

go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on his

Eden Group meeting room like a storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the marble floor with sharp

-

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

become the

they were

breath she'd promised Eden that Heinrich would cooperate

the main hall, the polished calm of her diplomacy

Heinrich down,

fury. She stormed over and

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

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

true?" Katarina

hit my nose."

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

real

immigrant struck a noble, the punishment could be death.

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

protected rank,

commoner, most people just

Prussia — power didn't

turned her sharp eyes to

my attention. Well, you've got it. I think that's

frowned. "No. I won't divorce her.

don't have

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

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

you? That everyone

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

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

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

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

him.

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

was

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

distance between them, but before he could take another step, her hand shot out and clamped

staring at him, fierce and cold, while his other

Alex," Katarina said, every

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

Alex said, his voice low and hard as steel. "You're not my wife anymore. I don't owe you a damn thing. I don't answer to your orders. We're

face. The slap cracked through the

it something else trembled — a flash of tears she

I command you

this bitch!" Katarina

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

tightened on Alex. Sofina caught it in one

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

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

the whispers

the Rosenheim title was bought

that they earned their barony by stabbing their own

silks and titles they were nothing more than well-fed

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

to Katarina's will and some Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They moved to strike to humiliate Sofina for daring to stand her

robot glided between them, its mechanical

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

attackers jerked, their muscles seized, and they dropped

the security unit repeated. "Please remain

robbed, for the

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

of here,"

love! You said you loved me! You swore you'd

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

rituals,

answer, another android glided

collaboration. Please proceed to Meeting Room 01. I can escort you if you are unfamiliar with the

hand. “Go,”

she asked, her

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

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

in

a change in location. Please follow me. Miss Von Adler would like to meet you in her

blinked. "Miss Von Adler?

She's expecting

dazed, and followed

Eden Group headquarters.

Von Adler-the most powerful woman

the Wolfsbane family.

It didn't make sense.

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

of Eden Group-rose gracefully from behind her

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

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

she answered, but

met

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

but we work hard.

never disappoint."

to .net

folder. "This is the Wolfsbane

take a look."

smile and took the file. She

a few pages, then closed

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

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

out.

too quick-too easy. She had spent weeks

a long negotiation.

in seconds.

her expression unreadable

fully meet our usual standards. But our

"Your founder?" she asked, her voice

"May I know who your

curved into a faint smile. “Our founder," she said

me?" Sofina blinked, unsure if she'd

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

in you. He believes in

tone carried weight. Alex had instructed her not to reveal

calm. "Now, Miss Scheinwald, according to your

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

she said easily. "In fact, it's less than what we

frowned slightly. "What

founder instructed me to increase

set at one hundred

eyes widened, her breath catching.

repeated, barely believing it.

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

already drafted the agreement-one hundred million dollars in total. If you have no objections, we can sign

in disbelief. Her mind spun. Eden

powerful corporations in Winchester-had not oChapter

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

his age, Mr. Everly's arm was still strong; after just a few blows, Finnian's crisp white shirt was

listen. He kept shouting, "I'll beat you to death!" and from the look in his eyes, he

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

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

"You should

long, searching

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

as he squeezed her hand, his heartbreak almost

to her; today, he was determined to be with Liliana.

never told you, but I

"What is it?"

Qu

You wanted that because you thought Finnian cared about me, but the truth is

nearly said outright

Mr. Everly listened, utterly exhausted,

blame Amara for not wanting Finnian. Only

l.ne

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

hand wearily. "Ama, I'm tired. I need to lie down for a

well, Grandpa. I'll

hope for Amara and Finnian? He really did care for her, and he'd always dreamed She'd stay with the Everly family become Finian's wife. But

deeply, no longer wanting to dwell on it,

Amara found Finnian still in the living room. He'd

Chapter 365

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briefly before looking away, steeling herself as she

spoke up. "Let me

"That's not necessary-"

to you," he added quickly, sensing her

knew it was time to put things to rest between them. She nodded, walked out to his car, and let him drive her home.nly

real," she murmured, her voice

who had dreamed of a collaboration like

would come with

had been given a

shook slightly as she looked up at Marlena, eyes wide

and awe.

whispered. "Thank you

Every word was a deal, every touch a performance. He was arrogant, restless, and

different. Quiet. Loyal. Predictable in the best way - a man who didn't need to be

And losing that warmth felt like standing in an endless

face a crisis, she thought bitterly. It's

the empty mornings, the silence at dinner, the ache

of pride instead

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

have my attention Start kneeling, sweetheart. Maybe I'let your husband keep his job. And if you take off your

a moment, everything

Sofina smiled.

her fist shot forward and cracked across

his nose with

back, clutching

the crowd gasped.

u are."

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

out of Katarina's sight

the entrance like a man

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

over."

glass doors. Sofina hit the ground, landing on her backside as the folder burst open,

you

care whether Elysia and Lucian would end up together. What mattered was that she could finally pull herself out of

A few days later, Liliana set

shared a photo of herself and Finnian, standing side by side in front of a house. Liliana's arm was looped through Finnian's, her

could tell he was the CEO-no, now the Chairman of the

you." It

did it feel so

relationship, speculation they'd get married someday. But the Everly Group had never acknowledged anything publicly, and there'd never been concrete

a statement, they didn't try to take down Liliana's post either. Their silence was approval enough-everyone understood now that Liliana and Finnian were truly a

went viral in minutes, and Liliana was suddenly flooded with messages, all wishing her and Mr. Everly

Liliana returned to the film set. The moment she walked on, people flocked around her, eager to curry favor. Some even joked about when she and

this. Maintaining her graceful smile, Liliana answered their questions

?

perfectly well that ever since word of her suicide attempt had gotten out, people whispered behind her back, saying she'd forced Finnian to stay by her side with her life on the line. Now, with everyone

But so what?

woman in Finnian's life. When that day came,

Liliana hadn't been there long before Hogan appeared. “Hey, I heard you

accident, and another few days recovering at home. Now he was back on his

while, but it's over

told me to eat well and get my strength back," Hogan replied casually, dropping

well with her, and they'd even had dinner together a few times He'd

had been the only

emotions. Even if she was uncomfortable, she'd never let it show. She chatted with

meaningless exchanges, he cut the conversation short. "I'm heading out. Let's catch

was the first time Hogan hadn't called her "sis- in-law." She couldn't tell if he'd done it on purpose or just out

smile didn't falter. "Alright, go home and get some rest. If you're not feeling

room, his brow furrowed,

Amara coming down the

Amara's real face, but every time he ran into her

and strode over to her, blurting out,

this up. "Weren't they already together for ages?" she replied, her