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.

Denzel smiled slightly and said, "Mr. Knott, you're too kind. Please forgive our unannounced visit."

"No need for that; it's our honor. Please, come in." Martin led the father and son into the sitting room and had them seated.

Denzel got straight to the point, saying, "I've long heard that your daughter is as beautiful as a goddess, and today I see the reputation is well-deserved."

"Thank you for the compliment, Mr. Stonebrook." Heather appeared slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left her, like they were practically glued to her every move.

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

Camden snapped out of his daze and quickly stood up, saying, "I'm sorry, Ms. Knott, I was being rude."

She was not angry at all. In fact,

the young mistress of the

resources, her strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds,

secure a place among the four

Denzel smiled a

"My

Knott once not

love at first sight for

he lost his

his appetite and many.

As his father, I

Cóntent

was done speaking, he clapped his hands, and the servants immediately opened the

a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box

box, though smaller, contained dozens

Stonebrook family's betrothal gifts include 880 thousand gold coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a box of premium

out. The gold coins alone

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

Pills could cleanse the body, improve physical constitution, extend

constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even

are you satisfied

satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually,"

mean you agree to

him to be interested in my daughter is an honor

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

wedding date, setting it for a year later. Martin then mentioned

Stonebrook, we've recently provoked someone whose strength is formidable

cause

scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's

commoner.

renowned doctors, none could help me. Later, when my illness

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 just to reveal how despicable he is, but also

can call off the

crossed Camden's eyes. "I heard about this incident too, but

worry, Heather. I don't mind. It

Camden, thank you for understanding," Heather forced out a

strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the Stonebrook family's resources, they likely knew as

it up herself, she hoped to handle the situation

I agreed to marry him. But what I never expected

engaged, he demanded that

that kind of woman and naturally refused him. He then tried to

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

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

be under 30 years old. How could he be stronger than Mr.

cultivators improve their skills, their lifespans increase. There

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

least at the early pinnacle stage of diving grandmaster, strongerthan the eight

is definitely

an

Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

the heir of the Stonebrook family, one of the four major families of the southern

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

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

at five rings, placing her on the same level as Kaitlyn and the

a genius with boundless potential

talent compensated for her comparatively modest

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

secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with

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

from Martin, Sebastian invested in a vast amount of herbs for

the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by stealth or force-and then

to boost the cultivation of those around him once

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

at Knott Estate. They've sent over an invitation," Hendrick

One of them is for me, I assume?" Sebastian

"Yes, you're

was nothing more than an attempt to use the Stonebrook

Wilder, are you planning

sent me an invitation, so if I don't go, wouldn't I be letting them down?" Sebastian replied with a

I think it's best if you don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their invitation is definitely not sincere it's clear

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

right into their

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

be so careless. know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has

Hendrick warned.

to .net

"I appreciate your concern, but those people

just clowns. They're

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

ie

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

added, "Mr. Wilder, please listen to us

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

confront them sooner

approached the entrance of Knott

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

Sebastian asked. "Are you heading to

Sebastian nodded.

the Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the banquet. Going there now is like walking into a

been waiting here just to tell

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

about me.

Kaitlyn scoffed

so, then it's surely true. Why don't we

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

up. No more advice, please," Sebastian said

marching to his doom. All they could probably do now was retrieve his

the atmosphere was festive and filled

the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by

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

was beaming. To have Heather a woman

had a thorn in his side-Heather's body had already been seen and touched by Sebastian

Sebastian.

keeping tabs on Sebastian's movements, and his subordinate

just at that moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian

all the exits once he enters. Make sure he

in place. He won't be able to get away,

the way, has my father

issues and likely won't make it today. But with the family's third elder

again

Sebastian and his companions entered

Korbin exclaimed in

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

her teeth. "Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I can't

said, "This place isn't exactly a dragon's

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

"Brat, today next year will

down, admit

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

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

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

let him live. I can't

only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had

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

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

his smile was

grew furious. "What are

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

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

it. This guy must

have had a slim chance to live. But insulting

Everyone nodded in agreement.

seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking ready to strike Sebastian

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

practicing

cultivation technique, one that

energy

day, shevited

lured me into her room, and tried to seduce

"Shut up!"

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

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

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

do you have?"

wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me, but I wasn't interested in her at all, so

lying! He's just upset that I broke off the engagement with him, so he's trying to slander me. You can't believe

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

didn't expect was that she was using an evil cultivation technique to absorb my

slander my woman right in front

you can have her checked. If I'm lying, you can do with me as you wish," Sebastian said

him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still

quickly chimed in, "Camden, this guy has ulterior motives.

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

Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or not, he had

Camden planned to verify everything as soon as

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

make me almost suffocate.

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

were at the early stage, whereas Septimus was a middle-stage divine grandmaster,

I originally thought you had some sense in you, but you're a fool Youre allowing this malicious woman to manipulate you

tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep talking. Heather is nothing more than

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

froze at his words and instinctively covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks would have healed by now, given

However, Heather's reaction

stunned. Upon realizing

tricked, Heather

lies! I swear I'll cut out your

fool, and he

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

middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power was

the pressure from his released aura

full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little

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

resounding sound, Septimus' arm

out a pained scream and staggered back

him down and

"What?"

middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated in

was

were the most shocked. Not long ago,

a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster

really underestimated you. If you release

yelled, "Sebastian, he's from the Stonebrook family!

approached Sebastian, his eyes filled

favor? I'll have him release Septimus, and in return,

from the start. Although her face was hidden, she had an undeniable allure

Camden found her even more enticing than he had

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

own eyes, and breaks

gouging out his eyes and

my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone that left no room

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

death trap. Why

realize your strength was so formidable,

Stonebrook

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

lightly and replied, "Ms. Gardner, I

not in the habit of

hard to

five miserably than to die.

my..." Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but in the

than death. Rather than

the chances were slim, at least

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook family erupted in

as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder,

be satisfied until I torture you for

his cultivation for

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

footfall left a deep imprint on the

powerful aura. Trey's cultivation must be truly

likely at the middle pinnacle stage of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability to fight beyond his

cultivation is? He struck so quickly

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a long sword

caught the sword and immediately drew it from

the blade resonated through the air, unleashing a wave of terrifying killing

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

Godslayer Blade

"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 strength instantly rises a whole

Camden to carry

even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand against Trey Defeating

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

was Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

her eyes, unable

first, she deeply resented the man who had taken her virginity,

old scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be

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

strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't need her protection at

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

sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged

a few miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere that weighed down

with weaker cultivation slumped to the ground while

Sebastian alive, so his sword's

blade was about to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching

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

palm. However, instead of the expected sight of blood and mangled flesh, the sword stopped dead in its tracks as it was

"How is this possible?"

shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as they were unable

He caught the Godslayer Blade with his bare hand! This

channeled his energy, trying to pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength, but it didn't budge an

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

if he was jolted

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

mix of anger and

Sebastian. "You actually dared to kill

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

I'm the heir to the Stonebrook

filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top experts in the Southern Regions, so killing you

idiots. You two really are made for each

idiot! Your whole family is!"

you still dare to shout at me. If

to kill us?" Heather was suddenly

family will never let you go.

clowns. If you send one person to me, I'll kill that person. If you send

the end, his voice was thunderous, sending shivers down

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

him and thought that he was lying. However,

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

to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you

not I end up in a grave, you won't

you dare!"

from the Stonebrook family around him

at him with disdain. He took

down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed

to remain standing, their legs

him!"

with terror, they had no choice but to

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

and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent flying.

shocked. The grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a

of cake. The sheer

was terrifying.

to the ground, and her face

moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed

into the air, attempting

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

nothing like this will ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through the boutique's high-ceilinged

so hard the tight bun at

breathe. Relief spread through her limbs like

had dangled on someone else's whim. Grateful, she offered a quick, thankful glance first to Jonathan and then

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

unexpectedly shy. "Thank you," she murmured,

smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly composed

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

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

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

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

fingers hovered around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as

purchase of this scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel gave a single, calm

did not understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult clothing, yet he trusted

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

velvet hangers

the other employees watched,

cover the down payment on a new

more.

everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared

Ivy guided

is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or

over eight million." s

would never have taken a job

firm as bedrock. "I'm

gaze flicked to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she finally

approval tone chimed, she stared at the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy, it seemed, spent money the way others breathed

for choosing us." Ivy presented the card with

courtesy. "Ms. Ivy, I truly

clerk finally set the

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

it on to whatever gentleman keeps you

ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's far too expensive," she blurted, hands rising like a pair of

apairof

in his low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing.

Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast briefing

with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and ribbon-tied shopping

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

me to pop in and pick out a few outfits for Uncle Zachary. This is just

Kennedy, and Mom's best friend would never

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

buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci never thinks of buying

like a sky before

around Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to

Nathaniel had believed the first fib, it was only because

more like an

She would never delegate adult shopping

gaze sharpened. "You've figured something

Jonathan blinked, performing innocent

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

expected to be exposed so fast, and the realization sent a

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

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

clothes for me and Elliot, but none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally direct in the way only

then snapped shut.Am I showing it

where did you pick

your face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as

tightened. The comment landed like a weight on his chest. If even a child could read him,

stayed shut far

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

corridor, she almost collided with

arms loaded with

have you two been? And what on earth is all

stepped forward, intent on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel

said smoothly. "Holiday

earlier excuse had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was

would have been nice. I was starting to wonder why

gaped, utterly bewildered. When

Jonathan a pointed

the constipation

skimping on water lately,"

eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him

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

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

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

confessed the problem, never imagining the confession would buy him this

since Cecilia had hugged him

I drink more water. It isn't that

the model child, obedient, courteous, eager to spare adults

unwilling to yield. "That won't do. Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation sometimes needs

the way surgeons announce a lifesaving

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

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

with pity for the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess

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

reached home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the small box into Jonathan's

not sure

plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping

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

Mommy. I can

She ruffled his hair, every

to endure the stubborn ache of

off to the bathroom with you," she said, voice low and gentle, as

"Okay."

box like contraband and bolted down the hallway toward the

plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating

constipated? He sure doesn't look it,"

but warning stare. "Don't tease your brother.

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

her hands. “Come on," she said, "let's try the

have to take tons of super-cool

layers. One by one, she handed them to the

ended,

departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in

wanting loneliness to take root, she sent them daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug,

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

life seemed to

the children be able to come

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

across the keyboard. "Nathaniel and I have decided. We'll come

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

chatted with Bethany for a good while longer, then finally ended

change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their beds, fast asleep within

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

back against the couch, eyelids drooping, intent on stealing five

"Ceci."

in surprise. "What

this all we're doing today?" His

follow. What do you

Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing,"

room. Something inside Nathaniel was storming, evident from

eclipsing her earlier cheer. "What's the

closer, the scent of cedar from his freshly pressed shirt

could speak

long arms swept out

possessive motion,

chest, as though

have to

with gravel, every

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

Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees this,

chin settling atop her hair as

holding each other? They're not babies anymore. They should

muttered, "Not babies? They're only

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

past her

we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build some resilience. It'll give us more space

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

As for Jonathan, let him

pad of his finger brushing her burning cheek. “You're being

"Hmm?"

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

then did it click. Her proud, composed

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

a storm gathering behind

arms and bolted down

a break for it, then sprang up and covered the

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

of spare rooms in

he slipped inside, scooped her up again,

turned, and darkness enveloped the

against the windows,

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

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

finger over that faint roughness, then lower

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open,

he murmured, drawing her even closer until her

breathe.” Her voice came out in a whisper, pressed

and sighed. "Stay. Just a little longer." "It's already nine. We really have

friends a full day

only tightened his arms and mumbled, "Give me a few

Cecilia realize how clingy he could be, warmth and weight wrapped

when were you this attached? I

tugged at his mouth. "I was younger. Didn't know any

ruffled his hair, dark

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

her hand again. "Ceci, after you hit the

her head. "That's it.

he asked, still unwilling to

for Mom, and something

His tone carried a note of suspicion wrapped in playful

"Nope."

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

He gently pried her

heaviness under the words but misread the cause. He just hates it when I leave too quickly. With that familiar assumption, she let

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

quiet hallways, and stepped

1.

had spirited Jon and Elliot off to RaiChapter

human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had even a

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

called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with

red. He spun toward the Baroness. “I—I didn't mean

face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her so-called pride, had

was Alex-the

liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet resolve, something in the old

least this one had

Every last one of you! From this moment on,

The room fell silent.

Grandma," she said.

flashing Beatrix a smug grin that made her

through her nose, lips curling into a sneer. "Go on, Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll

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

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

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

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

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

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

Envious?" she snapped. "You're a

deep, mocking sound that filled the room. "Then let's make this interesting.

think I'm scared?

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

if Sofina fails, I want both

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

"Count me in too! If

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

"I won't lose. But

"Since you love calling me a half-slave, how about this—if you lose, you kneel ten times and admit you're

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

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

he said calmly. "But if I win, you'll accept

cruel sound. "You really think you can win this? I've already recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's official now. You'll have to honor

smirked. "Perfect," he said. "I like

at them. She

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

"Sofina, you have three days to negotiate and close

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

"Trust? No.

look. "That's

to someone who hasn't met this

at least I bet on your victory.

brow. "You really think this bet

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

arms. "And what if

fit right in with this family-bad

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

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

glide across the car's polished hood, “we should return this car. It's too extravagant for us. Everyone's going

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

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

can."

at him. "You really think this is

Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll

half anxious, half amused. "I

don't need it," Alex said, his grin widening. "You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you miss,

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

whispered as the car

me here, your luck's already doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener

QUMS

a moment, her nerves eased. She wished she

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

Group's glass façade rose into the sky like a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old,

was like a beggar asking a banker to lend him

grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front of the whole house. There

pace. The lobby felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts, all dressed in tailored suits and guarded

voices low but tense, each

Group. The sight

all every one

of them was hono

the same thing: a coffaboration

earth are you doing here?" a

standing with Katarina

like hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way a judge's

sentence.

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.

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

buttoning up his Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided into the room, humming softly as its sensors locked onto

monitor was just shoved by a guest-he forced her out into the entrance area. Do

me the footage,"

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

straightened his collar, pulled on his gloves, and

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

said quietly, helping her pick them up. "What

No matter what I say, he

gently lifting her

nothing serious,"

"You know, you don't need

But I like the feel of paper. I like touching something

chest. "The same way

chuckled. "You really are

at me like I was more than data

teased each other as they walked back through the

voice cracked

"What the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I don't want you

The color drained

invisible chain that still

eyes flickering, as if waiting for

forward, placing himself between

said. "You're a guest. You have no authority to order people

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

low, sharp laugh. "Keep dreaming. You're not a king- you're just another arrogant

am? I'm Heinrich Schiller." Heinrich's face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener. When I'm finished, you'll be out of a job.”

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

"Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group.

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

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

man. Your gardener. He insulted me and tried to throw me

turned and spotted Alex in his Eden Group gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you pretending to

over a thousand workers in this two-hundred-floor building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt officially registered, the security

to forget

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

and beg for

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

have any idea who Heinrich Schiller is? He's one of the brightest minds in Winchester-soon to join

not

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

said calmly, shaking his head. "I

fired if you don't!"

Just kneel and bow three times, and

to me. Three kowtows, then maybe

gather, drawn by the rising tension. Laughter rippled

gardener trying to stand up to Heinrich? The man really

gardener's got a name. You know

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's

and turned

my

fool who doesn't know his

bows, and I

hand tightened around Alex's arm,

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

have the whole

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

s

him tighter and shook her

but steady. "Let me handle

face. She met his

Sofina stepped forward

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

curse.

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

Eden Group! Security robot - fetch

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

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

it," Heinrich said, every syllable a command. "Give her

cancel that order," he said. "Someone's going to get hurt if

one who'll get

communication bracelet. "Security —

tilted his head. "I warned

crowd began to close

she hit Heinrich,"

know Heinrich's

her!" another voice

scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its lenses swept

a threat to her, an alert raced through

room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina had left at home, came

wired her into his

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

snapped into the network. "Override the previous command.

security robot optical sensors swung toward

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

an electric whip from

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

tilting from triumph to alarm. "Is the Eden

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

ripple of confusion

robot didn't stop until Dietrich

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

frozen, her mind struggling to catch

the blood

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

her, his hand

time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over and over

weak, but

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

go of me!"

his temper under a hard lid. The government cameras watched from every

until Heinrich screamed like an animal, pain folding him in

to his knees, clutching at a hand that

me go!" Heinrich gasped, tears wet on his cheeks as the pressure crushed

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

-

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

become the next family tied to its vast

were

Heinrich would cooperate if the contract

emerged into the main hall, the polished calm of her

Heinrich down, and Heinrich bled and

white with fury. She stormed over and slapped Alex hard. "You half-slave!"

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

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

that true?" Katarina asked

was Sofina. She hit my nose." Heinrich

herself steady. "So what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if you want-try to prove you're better. Go on.

still carried real power. The

struck a noble, the punishment

were severe and swift. More often

law protected rank,

commoner, most people just accepted it. That

power didn't need to

turned her sharp eyes

Sofina — to make me jealous, to get my attention. Well, you've got it. I think that's enough. Divorce her. I'll marry you later

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

have to

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

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

you? That everyone just spins

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

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

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

she'd discovered something she

him.

Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her from the

was cold and transactionaChapter

this moment. He didn't want to face

but before he could take another step, her hand shot

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

stop, Alex," Katarina said, every

temper." She stepped closer. "Remember when I made you kneel in the rain for three

my wife anymore. I don't owe you a damn thing. I don't answer to your orders.

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

— a flash of tears she

I command you

bitch!" Katarina

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

tightened on Alex. Sofina caught it in

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

been treated like royalty, and she'd

heard the whispers

Rosenheim title was bought

stabbing their own marquis,

silks and titles they were nothing more than

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

shuffled forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They moved to strike to humiliate Sofina for daring to stand her

robot glided

on Eden Group property," it announced firmly. "Cease all hostile actions

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

unit repeated. "Please

stood there, red-faced and unmoored robbed, for the moment, of the power she'd

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

get out of here," she said,

Katarina's voice cracked like a whip. "You always talked about love! You said you loved me!

rose, trembling with rage. “You promised to obey me, to give me your body, to destroy yourself for me!

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

another android glided up

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

froze in surprise. Alex squeezed her hand. “Go,” he said quietly. "This is your

she asked, her voice

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

android down the corridor. The robot stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The person in charge will arrive shortly." It turned and glided

later, the door opened and a poised woman in a tailored suit stepped in. "Miss Sofina?" she

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

Von Adler?

She's

nodded, still dazed, and followed the woman through the

Eden Group headquarters.

most powerful woman in Eden-want to meet her

about working with the Wolfsbane family.

It didn't make sense.

the assistant through the long corridor, her heels echoing off the marble floor, until they stopped

assistant opened it and gestured her in. Inside, Marlena Von Adler-the legendary chairwoman of Eden

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

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

answered,

met

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

but we work

never disappoint."

to .net

neat folder. "This is the

take a look."

calm, knowing smile and took the file.

a few pages, then

soft but sure, "I've already reviewed your

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

out.

She had spent weeks rehearsing

possible question, expecting a long negotiation. And yet

in seconds.

leaned back, her expression

Though I'll be honest," she said, "the Wolfsbane Group doesn't fully meet our usual standards. But

breath caught. "Your founder?" she asked, her

I know who your

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

unsure

You'll understand when the time

in you. And that's why he's giving you

weight. Alex had instructed her not

according to your proposal, your initial quotation for the

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

her head. "Oh no," she said easily. "In fact, it's less than

frowned slightly. "What

instructed me to increase

set at one hundred

her breath catching. "One...

repeated, barely believing it.

folder, retrieved a crisp contract, and slid it across

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

document in disbelief. Her mind spun. Eden

powerful corporations in Winchester-had not oChapter

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

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

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

Mr. Everly's arm, her voice

Finnian and gasping for breath, his shoulders

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

shot her a long, searching look, then

Finnian's out of his mind. Can't you see? He insists on being with that actress,

as he squeezed her

feelings to her; today, he was determined to be with Liliana. Thinking back on the

there's something I've never told you,

"What is it?"

Qu

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

but firm. She nearly said outright that she

listened, utterly exhausted, guilt

blame Amara for not wanting

l.ne

years, it had been Mr. Everly Finself, swallowing his pride and pushing for them to

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

"Rest well, Grandpa. I'll see

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

no longer wanting to dwell on it, and finally closed

the living room. He'd changed his shirt, and his wounds looked hastily

Chapter 365

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at him briefly before looking away, steeling

But Finnian spoke up. "Let me give

"That's not necessary-"

you," he added quickly, sensing

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

real," she murmured, her

grandmother, who had dreamed of

it would come with such generosity. Now they

they had been given a

slightly as she looked up at Marlena, eyes wide with

and awe.

she whispered. "Thank you so

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

in the best way - a

warmth. And losing that warmth felt like standing in an endless

face a crisis, she thought bitterly. It's the

the silence at dinner, the ache

out of

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

his job. And if you

a moment,

Sofina smiled. Not softly-but

blink, her fist shot forward and cracked across his

landed square on his nose

back, clutching his face, howling in shock

the crowd gasped.

u are."

both know why you're here. You came chasing

Now get out of Katarina's sight you're fucking

the entrance like a man

dare try to step foot in here

over."

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

sure you take

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

days later,

of a house. Liliana's arm

anyone could tell he was the CEO-no, now the

grateful to have you." It looked almost exactly like a formal relationship

it feel so

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

try to take down Liliana's post either. Their silence was approval enough-everyone understood now that Liliana

suddenly flooded with messages, all wishing her and Mr. Everly

flocked around

ages since she'd been the center of attention like this. Maintaining

?

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 flatter her, she couldn't tell which words were genuine and which were

But so what?

woman in Finnian's life. When that

Liliana hadn't been there long before Hogan appeared. “Hey, I heard you had a rough time a few days ago. How are you holding

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

"I'm alright. Things were tough for a while, but it's over now. How about you? Are you feeling

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

her, and they'd even had dinner together

been the

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

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. Let's catch up another time," he said,

"sis- in-law." She

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

room, his brow furrowed, thoughts tangled

spotted Amara

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

collected himself and strode over to her, blurting out, "You know

why he'd suddenly brought this up.

him off. "Does it even matter? Did you need

He frowned, frustrated.

never actually been a couple.

knew-there shouldn't be anything left between them He'd wanted to explain this to Amara,

the fact that Liliana had posted that tweet, despite not having a child anymore, suggested things had changed between her

just asked what he actually wanted to know: "Nothing,

was the real reason he'd come to find

looked puzzled. "Why would I

on from Finnian, and yes, the news had stung at first. But she'd already worked through those feelings. Why was he asking her about

watched her face carefully. She didn't look like she was lying. His frown

Amara answered without hesitation.Chapter

thought made Liliana clench her fists, her

set was a whirlwind of activity. Everyone's

Amara was naturally working overtime, revising scripts late into the night. This evening was no different-she was still at her desk past nine

her door. "Come in," she called, barely glancing up. Keith strolled in like he owned the place, flopping onto the couch and pouring himself a glass of water with the comfort of someone

you noticed?

paused, then resumed typing, her eyes on the screen. "Weren't they always joined at the hip? How much closer

for Liliana these past few days. You haven't noticed

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