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.

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"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.

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

come in." Martin led

your daughter is as beautiful as a goddess,

Stonebrook." Heather appeared slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left her, like

quickly reprimanded, "Camden, it's impolite to

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

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

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

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

place among

Denzel smiled a

"My

not

at first sight for

he lost his

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

speaking, he clapped his hands, and the

coins. They were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs, a box of antique paintings, a box of aged

though smaller, contained

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

Stonebrook family had truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted

not enough, making them extremely scarce in the market. When Martin and Heather heard about the Purification Pills,

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

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

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

Extremely satisfied,

agree to

be interested in my daughter is an honor for us. How could we

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

parties quickly settled on the wedding date, setting it for

whose strength is formidable and who

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

scoundrel named Sebastian

commoner.

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

advantage 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

mind, we can call off

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

worry, Heather. I don't mind. It

Heather

Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the Stonebrook family's resources, they likely knew

she

never expected was that the

got engaged, he demanded that I sleep

then tried to force himself on me, but

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

is very strong. Even

under 30 years old. How

their lifespans increase. There are also herbs and pills that extend life

look like he's in his 20s, but his real age could be far

in agreement. "That's right. That brat's cultivation is at least at the early pinnacle stage of diving grandmaster, strongerthan

is definitely well

just an early-stage divine

Heather and Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

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

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

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

The Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level as

was a genius with boundless potential

compensated for her

engagement, many women felt envious and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the

those who secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their

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

million gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in a vast amount of

third stage of the

to stockpile pills now to boost the cultivation of those around him once he

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

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

them is for me, I

"Yes, you're

an attempt to use the Stonebrook family's influence to

"Mr. Wilder, are

don't go, wouldn't I be letting them

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

nodded in agreement. "My father is right. You

walking right into

petty clowns.

but the Stonebrook family has

Hendrick warned.

to .net

unmoved. "I appreciate your concern,

They're not worth worrying

they leave me alone, fine. If they dare provoke me,

ie

the four major families in the southern

Wilder, please listen to

out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even

confront them sooner rather than later,Chapter

of Knott Estate, a woman

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

me?" Sebastian asked. "Are you heading

Sebastian nodded.

the

tell me this?"

happened to run into you and

expect you to care so much about me. Could it be

scoffed

says so, then it's surely true. Why

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

made up. No

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

was festive and filled

powerhouse, the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending Korbin

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

pleased, and his face was beaming. To have Heather a woman both stunning and neredibly talented was something that

side-Heather's body had already been seen and touched by Sebastian So the

Sebastian.

on Sebastian's movements, and

at that moment,

Make sure he doesn't escape," Camden ordered with

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

"By the way,

But with the family's third elder

nodded again

moment, Sebastian and his companions entered Knott

What's he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in

family's plan, yet he

her teeth. "Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I

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

"Stop playing dumb. Since you've come

today next year will be

If you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out your own eyes, and break your own hands,

engagement party. I came here to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet,

your mind?" Camden sneered. "I invited you

that just because he came to congratulate the

reputation. Mr. Camden would never let him live. I can't tell if this guy

Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done to her, seeing him in danger made her

at Camden and said, "Today is your engagement party. Killing

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

his smile

grew furious. "What are

Camden, I really don't get it. There are so many good women out there. Why on earth did you choose someone as despicable as Heather

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

it. This guy must be

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Trey Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking ready to strike Sebastian down

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

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

One day, shevited

lured me into her room, and tried to

"Shut up!"

and quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting

Camden, he's just slandering Heather on purpose.

don't believe him. This guy has slandered

evidence do you

to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce

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

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

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

my woman right

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

it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be a joke

quickly chimed in, "Camden, this guy has ulterior motives. Don't fall

under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he wondered, "Could this guy be telling

ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or

Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as

vast and overwhelming as

this is the power of a divine grandmaster? Just the aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers

experts like Korbin and Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they were also divine grandmasters,

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster, significantly stronger than

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

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

marks on her chest

truth, Sebastian was just bluffing;

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing she

Heather

you're spouting lies! I swear I'll cut out your

a fool, and he was infuriated by

one of the four major families of the southern region, with all their

was a middle-stage divine

move, the pressure from his released aura

Abigail looked on with faces full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could

as it seemed he would succeed, Sebastian suddenly countered, reacting

sound, Septimus' arm

pained scream and staggered back in

swift movement, Sebastian chased him down and

"What?"

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

was beyond

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

all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why would

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

"Sebastian, he's from the Stonebrook family!

Sebastian, his

me a favor? I'll have him release Septimus, and

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

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

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

gouges out his own eyes, and breaks both his

eyes and breaking his hands a

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

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

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

strength was so formidable,

Stonebrook

imagination. Gouging out your eyes and breaking your hands is the best outcome I could

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

the habit of

hard

miserably than to die.

something, but in the end, she only

fate worse than death. Rather than living worse than a dog, it was better to fight to the

the chances were slim, at least

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook family erupted in

seething with rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how dare

satisfied until I torture you

cripple his cultivation for

was already walking toward Sebastian, his

forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall left

be truly

pinnacle stage of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability to

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

shouted, tossing a

and immediately drew it from its sheath. A sharp,

the blade resonated through the air, unleashing a wave

surrounding temperature seemed to plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their

be the Godslayer

Stonebrook family proudly stated, "That's right. This is our Stonebrook family's 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

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

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

said to be a top-tier weapon that could slice through iron like it was

Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

her eyes, unable to bear watching Sebastian's

had taken her virginity, but

have been defiled by that old scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted to save her. That all made

started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step

that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers,

kill Sebastian were the

As he swung his sword, a blinding

instant, the energy within a few miles surged violently, creating

slumped

Sebastian alive, so

Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out to grab

try and stop the Godslayer Blade

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

"How is this possible?"

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

Godslayer Blade with his bare hand! This is insane!" "What

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

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

if he was

the Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not bad. From now on, it's

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

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

you think you can kill

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

filled with masters of

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

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

yet you still dare to shout at me. If that's not

You really plan to kill us?" Heather

you dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not just you, but everyone you care about

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

By the end, his voice was thunderous, sending

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

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

are full of yourself! Our family has stood strong for over a

admit

I end up in a grave, you won't be around

you dare!"

gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as they were ready to flee at any

at him with disdain. He took a step forward,

on everyone present. Those

to remain standing,

him!" Camden

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

join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos

forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters

very shocked. The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a single move To

of cake. The

was terrifying.

and her

that moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He

into the air, attempting

the nervous clerk and decided to let the matter drop, choosing mercy

Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through

Elodie blurted, nodding so hard the tight bun

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

ago, her fate had dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful glance

stepped between danger and the child, the day would have ended in chaos

you," she murmured, sincerity softening every line of her

almost grown-up, impossibly composed for

the one thanking you," he

a sleek matte card. Holding

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

over ten thousand, yet this child intended to buy

uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she sought Nathaniel's

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

understand why Jonathan wanted an entire

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

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

the other employees watched, envy shining through their

the

more.

standing nearby and everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared

guided

“Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or two pieces back? Together

over eight million." s

never have taken a job

Jonathan said, firm as bedrock. "I'm buying

to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she finally swiped

stared at the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy, it seemed,

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

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

set the

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

marble. "Pass it on to whatever gentleman

in wonder, then alarm. A quick shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't,

apairof

effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today.

Jonathan had delivered

two bodyguards trailed them like silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and

downward glance at Jonathan, who still wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh,

and pick out a

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

expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy

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

darkened like a sky

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

had believed the first fib, it was

Jonathan appeared more like an adult compared

would never delegate

sharpened. "You've figured something out,

blinked, performing innocent

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

fast, and the realization sent a tremor of

theatrical sigh. “Are you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his

"Why would I be?" he countered, voice calm yet edged with

skipped you completely. That proves

snapped shut.Am

“And exactly where did you pick

across your face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as if stating

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

the restroom door stayed shut far too

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

almost collided with Jonathan

trailing behind them, arms loaded with

two been? And what on earth is

on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel

smoothly. "Holiday

clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching the hole as fast as

well, a heads-up would have been nice. I

bewildered. When have I ever been

his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding

himself to carrying the constipation story on his

guess I've been skimping

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

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

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

his cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly as

confessed the problem, never imagining the confession would

been ages since Cecilia had hugged him like

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

the model child, obedient, courteous, eager to spare

won't do. Maybe

with earnest gravity, the

expression twisted into silent misery. Great, sc*mbag daddy. Of all lies you could invent, you picked constipation.

them,” he whispered, the words nearly

a glimmer of amused apology

tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's worth

a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the small box

embarrassed. If you're not sure

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

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

Mommy. I can manage on my

his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that

endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If it lasted, a doctor's visit would be

the bathroom with you," she said, voice low and gentle, as though sending

"Okay."

contraband and bolted down the hallway

couch, Elliot lounged with a plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's

doesn't look it," Elliot muttered around

him with a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease your brother. He's

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

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

Mommy, you have to take tons of super-cool

clothes in bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to

ended, she pinged the

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

them daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug, photos of uneaten cookies, and

couple, in return, video-called often to check

life seemed to find its rhythm

to come back for a visit?" Bethany asked,

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

and I have decided. We'll come

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

a good while longer, then finally ended

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

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

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

"Ceci."

in surprise. "What

this all we're doing

follow. What do you mean?" Confusion knitted

eyes.

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

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

of cedar from his freshly pressed shirt

could speak

long arms

swift, possessive

though staking a claim no one

really have to

gravel, every syllable vibrating through the

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

Elliot or Jonathan walks

her hair as

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

"Not babies? They're only six-maybe seven- years

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

brows arched, genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left

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

Besides, Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps Old Mr. Sinclair

assign a full team to watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan,

a hand, the pad of his finger brushing her burning cheek. “You're being terribly

"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 for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like I'm dead last

click. Her proud, composed husband was

kids outrank you. I risked my life to bring them

eyes darkened, a storm gathering behind the

bolted down the hallway, bare

dare make a break for it,

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

door. "There are plenty of spare rooms

match for his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside,

turned, and darkness

hissed against the windows, but inside, heat

glare slicing through the curtains and

find Nathaniel's face less than an inch away.

faint roughness,

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open, hazy

awake?” he murmured, drawing her even closer until her breath

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

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

best friends a full day of

tightened his arms and mumbled, "Give me a

Cecilia realize how clingy he could be,

when were you this attached?

mouth.

laughed and ruffled his hair, dark strands

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

you hit the mall

head.

buying?” he asked,

New clothes for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa and

a note of suspicion wrapped

"Nope."

coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every hanger she touched, as if color and cut were matters

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

hates it when I leave

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

through quiet hallways, and stepped

1.

Jon and Elliot off to RaiChapter

being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had even a sliver of sense, you'd know how foolish

complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family

just called you an idiot with half

went pale, then burned red. He spun toward the Baroness.

face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked

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

Sofina step

least this

cowards! Every last one of you!

The room fell silent.

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

flashing Beatrix a smug grin that made

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

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

real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's

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

real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are

meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal, that's all! I'm being

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

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

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

crossed her arms. "Fine. You think I'm scared? Name your terms, Alex the

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

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

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

in too! If I win,

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

won't lose.

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

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

"If you lose, I want you to

said calmly. "But if I win,

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

he said. "I like it when everyone plays

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

thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could actually secure that collaboration with

you have three days to negotiate and close the

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

"Trust? No.

"That's

chuckled. "If you want comfort, talk to someone

grinned. "Hey, at least I bet on your victory. Isn't that

a brow. "You really

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

arms. "And what if you

fit right in with this family-bad decisions and

a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired, but her mind was

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

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

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

you the future deputy of the Wolfsbane Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't

can."

frowned, glancing at him. "You really think this is

without looking away from the road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll have

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

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

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

Sofina whispered as the car

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

QUMS

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

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

The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old, fractured, scandal-scarred—could sit

partner with them was like a beggar

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

The lobby felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from

their voices low but tense, each waiting for

Group. The sight

all every one

of them was hono

the same thing: a coffaboration with power.

you

and found Heinrich standing with Katarina

the

sentence.

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

trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group.

up his Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided into the room, humming

was just shoved by a guest-he

the footage,"

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

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

gathering a pile of

quietly, helping her pick

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

you?" Alex asked, gently

serious," she

know, you don't need to

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

"The

chuckled. "You

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

as they walked back through the glass corridor of

voice

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

The color drained from her

invisible chain that still tied her

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

himself

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

to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like a king. Where's your manager? I

not a king- you're just

face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this

Don't give him anything. He brings trouble."

and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be delighted if you joined our

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

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

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

gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you pretending to be one of

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

stepped closer. "You seem to forget

Human Resources. I can fire you anytime I want. Now,

Kneel and beg

should I? He's the one who tried to throw

any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one

if he's not joining?"

You're nothing compared to him! Now

calmly, shaking

if you don't!"

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

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

the rising tension. Laughter

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

gardener's got a name. You

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing off. He's too stupid

and

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

fool who doesn't know his place. How

and I

around Alex's arm, her knuckles

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

have the

back on you-even the Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing

s

forward, but Sofina grabbed him tighter and shook

but steady. "Let

face. She met his eyes.

stepped

hit me, bitch-" He spat the word

curse.

in God's name do you think you're doing,

Security robot - fetch her, give her

hustled Heinrich upright, supporting him with a

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

it," Heinrich said, every syllable a command.

better cancel that

who'll get hurt

bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish this

tilted his head. "I warned

crowd began to close

dare she hit Heinrich," someone

Heinrich's the

another voice

ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses swept over Sofina,

to her, an alert raced through the

a node nobody in the room expected-Eve, the

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

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

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

security robot optical sensors swung

The shock hit him

drew an electric whip from a holster and

followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air. "Stop! Not me -

from triumph to alarm. "Is

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

ripple of confusion moved through

until Dietrich had taken

his feet and kicked him out, shoving him

to catch up with

blood away with the back of his wrist,

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

toward her, his hand swinging through the

had struck

not because she was weak, but because she'd once mistaken

and seized his arm. "Find someone

let go of me!" Heinrich

hard lid. The

screamed like an animal, pain folding him

his knees, clutching at a hand that felt as

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

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

-

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

to become the next family tied to

they were desperater

she'd promised Eden that Heinrich would

emerged into the main hall, the polished calm of her diplomacy shattered. What she saw made her

Heinrich down, and Heinrich bled and

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

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

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

that true?"

Sofina. She hit my nose." Heinrich

You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if you want-try to

real power. The law bent

struck a noble, the punishment

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

law protected

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

Prussia — power

her sharp eyes to

make me jealous, to get my attention. Well, you've

frowned. "No. I won't divorce her. Go ahead and marry

have to

her tone soft. "I'm doing at this for you and for your Sant Claire family. When im done with Heinrich, if you behave yourself,

hardening his face. "Do

everyone just

like that, Alex!" Katarina snapped. "It's already a blessing that I'm even willing to marry you. How dare you disobey me! I command you divorce that woman and come back to me. You've caused

Just the sound of her voice gave him a headache. He took

Now!" Katarina's voice cracked with

she wouldn't admit

him.

the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her from the world, how

everything was cold

been dreading this moment. He didn't want to face Katarina—not here,

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

at him, fierce and cold, while his other arm still

you to stop, Alex,"

you kneel in the rain for three days and nights? You think I won't do it

steel. "You're not my wife anymore. I don't owe you a damn thing. I don't

across his face. The slap cracked through

else trembled — a flash of tears she fought to hide,

I command you

this bitch!" Katarina

of Alex without hesitation. Her eyes were quiet, but they held frost. "I pity

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

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

used to obedience. She had been treated like

heard the

the Rosenheim title was bought

stabbing their own

was built on treachery, that beneath their silks and titles they were nothing

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

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

Eden security robot glided between them, its mechanical

violence is permitted on Eden Group property," it

flashed. The would-be attackers jerked, their muscles seized,

violence," the security unit repeated. "Please remain

red-faced and unmoored robbed, for the

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

out of here,"

talked about love! You said you

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

rituals, hollow vows, or even violence and control-trying to

answer, another android glided up

proceed to Meeting Room 01. I can

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

she asked, her

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

"Please wait here. The person in charge will arrive shortly." It turned and glided away, leaving her

woman in a tailored suit stepped in.

in location. Please follow me. Miss Von Adler

Von

She's expecting

followed the woman through the

Eden Group headquarters. Her

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

proposal yet, the one about working with the Wolfsbane family. She

It didn't make sense.

long corridor, her heels echoing off

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

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

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

trembled slightly as she answered,

met

discuss the collaboration proposal. I know the Wolfsbane Group isn't

but we work

never disappoint."

to .net

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

take a look."

knowing smile and took the file. She

pages,

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

mean... it's approved?"

out.

felt too quick-too easy. She had spent weeks

a long negotiation. And yet here

in seconds.

back, her

Wolfsbane Group doesn't fully meet our usual standards. But our founder

she asked, her

"May I know who your

curved into a faint smile. “Our founder," she said softly, "is the most handsome man I've

me?" Sofina blinked, unsure if she'd

worry. You'll understand when the time comes.

sees something in you. He believes in

tone carried weight. Alex had instructed

to your proposal, your initial quotation

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

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

"What do you

me to increase the

wants it set at one hundred million

breath catching. "One... hundred

repeated, barely believing it.

a folder, retrieved a crisp contract, and slid it

said. "We've already drafted the agreement-one hundred million dollars in total. If you have no objections, we can

disbelief. Her mind spun.

in Winchester-had

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

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

wanted to intervene, but Mr. Everly wouldn't listen. He kept shouting, "I'll beat you to death!" and

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

stopped, glaring at Finnian and gasping for breath, his

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

a long, searching look, then turned and

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

he squeezed her hand,

anymore. Just yesterday, Finnian had confessed his feelings to her; today, he was determined to be with Liliana. Thinking back on the words he'd spoken to her before, Amara couldn't help but feel the whole thing

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

"What is it?"

Qu

know you've always hoped Finnian and I would end up together. You wanted that because you thought Finnian cared about me, but the truth is our relationship has never been

was gentle but firm. She nearly

listened, utterly

blame Amara for not wanting Finnian.

l.ne

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

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

Grandpa. I'll

there truly no hope for Amara and Finnian? He really did care for her, and he'd always dreamed She'd stay with

to dwell on

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

Chapter 365

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briefly before looking away, steeling herself

But Finnian spoke up. "Let me give you

"That's not necessary-"

talk to you," he added quickly,

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

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

grandmother, who had dreamed of a

imagined it would come with

had been given

shook slightly as she looked up at

and awe.

you,” she whispered. "Thank

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

Predictable in the best way - a man who

that warmth felt

fool can face a crisis, she thought bitterly.

at dinner, the ache of realizing you've

of pride instead

voice cracked as she screamed, desperate and trembling, "Alex, I'm warning you! Kneel — and come

husband keep his job.

a moment, everything

smiled. Not softly-but

blink, her fist shot forward

his nose with a sickening

back, clutching his face, howling

the crowd gasped.

u are."

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

get out of Katarina's sight

entrance like a man hauling out a scandal.

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

over."

through the glass doors. Sofina hit the ground, landing on her backside as the folder burst open, papers scattering across the marble steps. Heinrich

make sure you take

and Lucian would end up together. What mattered was that she could finally pull herself

quietly after she got back. A few days

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

he was the CEO-no, now the Chairman of the Everly

have you." It

did it feel

Finnian, whispers of their relationship, speculation they'd get married someday. But the Everly Group had never acknowledged anything publicly, and

down Liliana's post either.

in minutes, and Liliana was suddenly flooded with messages,

to the film set. The moment she walked on, people flocked around her, eager to curry favor. Some

she'd been the center of attention like this. Maintaining her graceful smile, Liliana answered their questions one by one, poised

?

knew 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 falling over themselves to

But so what?

now. Someday, she'd be the only woman in Finnian's life. When that day came, these same people would rush to curry her favor

long before Hogan appeared. “Hey, I heard you had a rough time a few days

few days recovering at home. Now he was back on

alright. Things were tough for a while, but it's over now. How about you?

and

time in Liliana's dressing room. He'd always gotten along well with her, and they'd even had

the only member of

master at hiding her emotions. Even if she was uncomfortable, she'd never let it show. She chatted with Hogan as casually as if

on the other hand, couldn't pull off Liliana's easy grace. After a few meaningless exchanges, he cut the conversation short. "I'm heading out.

moment. This 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

go home and get some rest. If you're not feeling

room, his brow furrowed, thoughts tangled

spotted Amara coming down

since he'd seen Amara's real face, but every time he ran into

strode over to her, blurting out, "You know Finnian

brought this up. "Weren't they already together for ages?" she

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