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."

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

region's four major families. If Heather could become the young

by leaps and bounds,

a place among the four great ladies in the

Denzel smiled a

said, "My

Knott once not long ago, and

love at first sight for

he lost his

his appetite and many.

over her. As his father, I became anxious,

Cóntent

speaking, he clapped his hands, and the servants

a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs, a box of antique paintings, a box of aged wine, and a box

though smaller, contained

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

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

their rarity, even internal consumption was not enough, making them extremely scarce in the market. When Martin and Heather heard about the Purification Pills,

the body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and greatly

improved their constitution, accelerated their

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

satisfied, actually,"

that mean you agree

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

future title of daughter-in-law of the

it for a year later. Martin then mentioned Sebastian

we've recently provoked someone whose strength is formidable

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

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

commoner.

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

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

we can call off the engagement, Mr.

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

I don't mind. It wasn't

thank you for understanding," Heather

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

it up herself, she hoped

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

as we got engaged, he

then tried

front of him. "Heather, don't

that scoundrel is very strong. Even my father couldn't defeat him," Heather

should be under 30 years old. How could

improve their skills, their lifespans increase. There

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

cultivation is at least at the

age is

an early-stage divine

and Camden's engagement spread quickly,

heir of the Stonebrook family, one of the four major families of the southern region, Camden would

as the daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it was still

background wasn't on par with the daughters of

five rings, placing her on the

boundless potential and

her beauty and talent compensated

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

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

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

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

find Fressia, secure the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by stealth or force-and then return

the cultivation of those around him once

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

and Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott Estate. They've sent over an invitation," Hendrick

them is

"Yes, you're

an attempt to use the Stonebrook family's influence

are you planning

invitation, so if I don't go, wouldn't I be letting

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

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

right

petty clowns. There's nothing to fear,"

family has many powerful figures. If you go you're bound

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your

They're not worth worrying

fine. If they dare provoke me, I'll

ie

family is one of the four major families in the southern region, even stronger than the Netherworld Sect.

added, "Mr. Wilder, please listen to us and don't

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

better to confront them sooner rather than

Sebastian and his group approached the entrance of Knott Estate,

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

Sebastian asked. "Are you

Sebastian nodded.

word that the Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the banquet. Going there now is

tell me

into you and thought I'd give you a

me.

Kaitlyn scoffed

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

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

No

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

the atmosphere was festive and

respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to personally attend and offer

all, by the end of today, she would be the future daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family-who would dare to cross

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

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

Sebastian.

tabs on Sebastian's

report just at that moment, "Mr.

once he enters. Make

He won't be able

satisfaction. "By the way,

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

nodded again

moment, Sebastian and his

here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when

Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still

had the guts to come. I can't decide if I should praise your bravery or call

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

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

today next year will be

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

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

invited you here

He thinks that just because he came to congratulate the

let him live. I can't tell if this guy is naive or just plain

Abigail, only Kaitlyn

at Camden and said, "Today is your engagement

you want to live today, the only way is to do as I

Sebastian laughed and his smile was

furious. "What are you laughing

get it. There are so many good women out there. Why on earth did you choose someone as despicable as Heather

You've got some nerve!" Camden fumed with

This guy must

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood

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

practicing

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

One day, shevited me

into her room, and

"Shut up!"

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

Heather on

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

do you have?" Camden

you let me finish what I was saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me,

turned to Camden and said, "Camden, he's lying! He's just upset that I

worry. No matter what he says, I won't

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

my woman right in

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

him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be a joke if word gets

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

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

ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was

Camden planned to verify everything

felt as vast and overwhelming as

to make me almost

they were also divine grandmasters,

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

"Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in you,

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

a few scratch marks on her chest because I got a

froze at his words and instinctively covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon

tricked, Heather

I'll cut out your tongue

and he was

four major families of the southern region, with all

particular, was a middle-stage divine

from his released aura alone made it hard for anyone

Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But

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

sound, Septimus'

let out a pained scream and staggered back in

with a swift movement, Sebastian chased him down and grabbed Septimus by the

"What?"

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

was

long ago,

ordinary person, perhaps at most a warrior. After all,

stunned, then erupted in fury. "I've really underestimated you. If you release Septimus now, I

he's from the Stonebrook family! If you dare to kill him, you

also approached Sebastian, his eyes filled with murderous

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

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

than he had imagined. He nodded and said,

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

gouges out his own eyes, and breaks both

his eyes and

offering this. This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone that

turned to Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I

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

didn't realize your strength was so formidable, but you still

Stonebrook family

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

"Ms. Gardner, I appreciate your kindness,

in the

it's hard to accept, but

five miserably than to

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

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

were slim, at least Sebastian could die

"Septimus!"

members of the Stonebrook family erupted

with rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how

won't be satisfied until I torture you

his cultivation

need Camden's order. He was already walking toward Sebastian, his aura growing

footfall

must be truly unfathomable. He's probably at the late-stage divine grandmaster

it's said that Trey has the ability to fight beyond his level, comparable to a late-stage

so quickly before;

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a

and immediately drew it from

blade resonated through the air, unleashing

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

be the Godslayer Blade

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

Camden to carry the

power of the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could

Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be

here was Sebastian,

her eyes, unable to bear watching

had taken her virginity, but after calming down and

she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At

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

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

were the Stonebrook family. Not

wielded the Godslayer Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with

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

cultivation slumped to the

capture Sebastian alive, so his sword's target

the blade was about to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out to grab the

filled with cruelty. To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with one's bare

with Sebastian's palm. However, instead of the expected sight of blood and mangled flesh, the

"How is this possible?"

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

with his bare hand! This is insane!" "What level is this

Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's

a slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go of the s go of the sword

if he was

Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This

a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a punch at Sebastian.Chapter

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

or be killed. If you think you can kill me, I can also kill you. It's your turn

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

with masters of

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

Your whole family is!" Heather shouted angrily at

dare to shout at me. If that's not foolishness, I

You really plan to kill

and afraid as he said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family will never let you go. Not

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

spoke. By the end, his voice was thunderous,

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

before, everyone would have looked down on him and thought that he was

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

you can fight us alone? Hand over the Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live. Otherwise,

I end up in a grave,

you dare!"

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

He took

instant, the oppressive force weighed down on everyone present. Those below

to remain standing, their legs quivering with

Kill him!"

had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting

Instead, he used the

boom, and

family had been

of cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

the ground, and

rushed toward Heather. He grabbed

air, attempting to

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

voice quiet

the tight bun at

Nathaniel turned away did Elodie finally breathe. Relief spread

she offered a quick, thankful glance first to

and the child, the day

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

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

be the one thanking you,"

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

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

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

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

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

still did not understand why Jonathan wanted an entire rack of adult clothing, yet he trusted the boy's

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

from velvet hangers into

the other employees watched, envy shining through

cover the down

more.

everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared

Ivy guided Nathaniel

she leaned down, voice barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain

over eight million." s

have taken a job at a boutique

firm as

no objection, she finally swiped

she stared at the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy,

presented the card with both hands, as though

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

finally set the receipt

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

on to whatever gentleman keeps you

shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh,

apairof

Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you ever hit a rough patch, come

earlier, while paying the bill, Jonathan had delivered a lightning-fast briefing

shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored

wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did you have in a men's boutique in the

out a few outfits for Uncle Zachary. This is just a quick errand on

in the privacy of his own mind. Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best friend would never check up on this,

Ms. Kennedy

Vivian remembers to buy

like

reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty sure that one was meant for

the first fib, it was only because

like

never delegate adult shopping to

sharpened. "You've figured something

blinked,

let out a quiet breath. “When it comes

fast, and the realization sent a tremor of startled admiration through

dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes

back and forced a civil smile. "Why would I be?" he countered, voice

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

opened, then snapped shut.Am I showing it that

where did

your face, Dad.” Jon shrugged as if

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

uneasy when the restroom door stayed

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

almost collided with Jonathan

noticed the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded

And what on earth

forward, intent on inspecting

gifts,” he said smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing

clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching the hole as

I was starting to wonder why you'd

Jonathan gaped, utterly bewildered. When have I ever been

throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look.

carrying the constipation story

guess I've been skimping on

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

all right? You're far too little to struggle

woman who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how

rush to his cheeks

imagining the confession would

had been ages since Cecilia had

I'll be fine if I drink more water. It isn't that

child, obedient, courteous, eager to

do. Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation sometimes needs

it with earnest gravity, the way

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

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

the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess he had

at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a

a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the small box into

don't be embarrassed. If you're not sure how

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

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

Mommy. I can manage

She ruffled his hair, every

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

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

"Okay."

clutched the box like contraband and bolted down the hallway toward

watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why,

doesn't look it," Elliot muttered

him, fixed him with a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease your brother. He's having a hard enough time

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

of cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on," she said,

Mommy, you have to take

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

little photoshoot ended, she pinged the piChapter

departure, Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place,

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

often to check

little, life seemed to find

children be able to come back for a visit?" Bethany asked, voice

to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her

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

as soon as you can. Your grandpa and I will prepare every

for a good while longer, then finally ended

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

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

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

"Ceci."

in surprise. "What

all we're doing today?" His question

do you

Nathaniel's eyes.

sit plainly on his face. Cecilia finally read the room. Something inside Nathaniel

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

scent of cedar from his freshly pressed

could speak

long arms swept out

swift, possessive

against his chest, as though staking a claim no one

have to

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

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

If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and

his embrace, chin settling atop her hair as if the conversation were

people holding each other? They're not babies

her eyes, she muttered, "Not babies? They're

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

arched, genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left the country that

behind his eyes. "Ceci, 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 for, well,

just regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps Old

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

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

"Hmm?"

yet you're perfectly fine leaving me on the sidelines.” He paused, drawing a steadying breath. "Remember, it's you and me for the rest of our lives. Sometimes I feel like I'm dead

Her proud, composed

suppress it. "Of course, the kids outrank

a storm gathering

twisted free of Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the hallway, bare feet whispering across

for it, then sprang up and covered the distance

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

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

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

deadbolt turned,

winter wind hissed against the windows,

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

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

finger over that faint

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open,

murmured, drawing her even closer until her breath mingled

came

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

a full day

only tightened his arms and mumbled, "Give me a few more minutes. Keep

clingy he could be, warmth and weight wrapped

you this attached? I never

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

laughed and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing up

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

"Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends, that's all, right? No

head.

asked, still unwilling to

clothes for Mom, and something nice

else?” His tone carried a note

"Nope."

had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every

by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers

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

lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt

through quiet hallways, and stepped

1.

Jon and Elliot off to

Dunce! You can say all that crap because you're an idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had even a sliver of sense, you'd know how foolish

believed that only a complete fool like Alex could think

called you an idiot with half a brain for daring to ask for collaboration. Thought

pale, then burned red. He

kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and

Alex-the outcast, the family

She'd never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward

least this one

last one of you! From

The room fell silent.

worry, Grandma," she said.

his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin

Sofina -try all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag the rest of us down

lift this family up, while you bury it

real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's

enough that even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the

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

I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina

a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's

eyes flashed. "Me? Envious?" she snapped. "You're a fool if you think any of this

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

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

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

Sofina fails, I

half-smile. "Then let's see who

in, "Count me in too! If

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

lose. But

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

burst out laughing. "Ha! You're really digging your own grave, loser! Fine-I'll take

said. "If you lose,

win, you'll accept our marriage- no more

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

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

She couldn't care less about their

thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could actually secure

"Sofina, you have three days to negotiate

out the window.

smirked. "Trust? No.

him a look. "That's supposed

"If you want comfort, talk to someone

least I bet on

"You really think this bet

show who's got

"And what

right in with this family-bad decisions and

proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were

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

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

"Maybe it's too fancy

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

can."

frowned, glancing at him. "You

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

half anxious, half amused. "I

Come on, Sofina. Shoot

as the car descended toward the Eden Group's towering

Sofina whispered as

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

QUMS

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

and felt something

rose into the sky like a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old, fractured, scandal-scarred—could sit at that

to partner with them was like a beggar asking

challenge in front of the whole house. There

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

tense, each waiting for their

Group. The sight

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration

What on earth are you doing here?" a

turned and found Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim,

the way a judge's did

sentence.

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

with mockery. "You? Who the hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't

his Eden Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided

asked us to monitor was just shoved by a guest-he forced her out into the

the footage,"

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

his collar, pulled on his gloves, and strode

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

her

shook her head, frustrated. "It's Heinrich. No matter what I say, he just slips back into his arrogant

asked, gently lifting her chin,

serious,"

last sheet. "You know, you don't need to

like the feel

"The same way

"You

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

as they walked back through the

a voice cracked

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

The color drained from

saw it-the invisible chain that still tied

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

stepped forward, placing himself

is Eden Group," Alex said. "You're a guest. You

expect to be treated like a

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

you know who I 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

He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes found a nearby figure. "Manager Wedell!"

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

came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the

professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone

Heinrich said coldly. "That's the man. Your gardener. He insulted me

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

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

closer. "You seem to forget your place. I'm

Resources. I can fire you anytime I want.

and beg for

"Why should I? He's the one who tried to throw out another guest,

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

he's not joining?"

You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I

said calmly, shaking his

if you don't!"

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

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

the rising tension. Laughter rippled through them

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

gardener's got a name. You know who

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

Alex? The walking mistake of Winchester? No

smirked and turned

been desperate for my

Your husband's a fool who doesn't know his place. How about you kneel

Three bows, and I

Alex's

you don't, I'll make sure everyone in Winchester hears about this.

I'll have the whole

nothing outcasts.

s

forward, but Sofina grabbed him

was soft but steady. "Let

her face. She

Sofina stepped forward alone.Chapter

face was red as a boil. "You hit

curse.

God's name do you think you're

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

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

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

Heinrich said, every syllable a

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

one who'll get hurt is

bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish

head. "I

began to

she hit

know Heinrich's the man

her!" another

ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization

the system flagged a threat to her,

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

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

device that touched Sofina reported

the previous command. Secure Dietrich and give

security robot optical sensors swung

and slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The shock hit him like a thrown rope; he folded and

anyone could process it, security robot drew an electric whip from a holster and

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

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

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

ripple of confusion

stop until Dietrich had taken twenty

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

frozen, her mind struggling to catch up with

clutching his bleeding nose. He wiped the blood away with the back of his wrist, his face

and venomous. "I'll teach

her, his hand swinging

first time. Heinrich had struck

was weak, but because

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

go of me!"

a hard lid. The

his grip until Heinrich screamed like an

hand that felt as if bone and pride

Heinrich gasped, tears wet on his cheeks as the pressure crushed

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

-

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

favor, to become the next

were

that Heinrich would cooperate if the

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

was holding Heinrich down, and Heinrich

stormed over and slapped Alex

dare you

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

that true?" Katarina asked

hit my

wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if you want-try to prove you're better. Go

real

struck a noble, the punishment could be death.

swift. More often than not, the

protected

people just accepted it. That was

Prussia — power didn't need

turned her sharp

Well, you've got it. I

won't divorce her. Go ahead and

have

you and for your Sant Claire family. When im done with Heinrich, if you

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

to you? That everyone just

a blessing that I'm even willing to marry you. How dare you disobey me! I command you divorce that woman

her was long gone. Just the sound of her voice gave

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

discovered something she wouldn't admit

him.

Alex cooked for her,

everything was cold and transactionaChapter

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

could take another step, her hand shot out and

and found her staring at him, fierce and cold, while

you to stop, Alex," Katarina

I made you kneel in the rain for three days and nights? You

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

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

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

command you

bitch!"

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

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

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

had been treated like royalty,

heard the whispers

Rosenheim title

that they earned their barony by stabbing their

their so-called empire was built on treachery, that beneath their silks and titles they were nothing more than well-fed servants

voice shaking with fury. "She's spitting on my family name!

eager to prove their loyalty. They moved to

security robot glided between them, its

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

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

No violence," the security unit repeated. "Please

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

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

here," she said, pulling

about love! You said you

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

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

could answer, another

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

Alex squeezed her hand. “Go,” he said quietly. "This

about you?" she asked,

and authorized personnel can access it. These

down the corridor. The robot stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The person

and a poised woman in a tailored suit stepped in. "Miss Sofina?"

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

Von

ma'am. She's expecting

and followed the woman through the long,

Group headquarters. Her

Von Adler-the most powerful woman in Eden-want to meet her

the one about working with the Wolfsbane family. She

It didn't make sense.

come twice. She followed the assistant through the long corridor, her heels echoing off the marble floor, until they stopped in front of a taff metal door engraved

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

extending her hand. "I'm Marlena Von Adler,

felt her pulse race. She was standing before the most powerful

trembled slightly as she answered, but

met

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

but we work

never disappoint."

to .net

Marlena a neat folder. "This is the Wolfsbane

take a look."

calm, knowing smile and took the

few pages, then closed it

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

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

out.

all felt too quick-too easy. She had spent weeks

possible question, expecting a long negotiation.

in seconds.

leaned back, her expression unreadable

"the Wolfsbane Group doesn't fully meet our usual standards. But our founder hold's your very nigh regard. He personally requested this

she asked, her voice barely

know who

smile. “Our founder," she said softly, "is the most handsome man

me?" Sofina blinked, unsure if she'd

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

he sees something in you. He believes in you. And that's why

gently, but her tone carried weight. Alex had instructed her not to reveal his identity, and she obeyed

to your proposal, your initial quotation for the collaboration is fifty

said, her voice small. "Is... is that

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

"What

founder instructed me to increase

wants it set at one hundred million

her breath catching. "One... hundred million?"

repeated, barely believing it.

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

agreement-one hundred million dollars in total. If you have no objections,

in disbelief. Her

in Winchester-had not oChapter

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

cane echoing through the room. Despite his age, Mr. Everly's arm was still strong; after just a

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

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

stopped, glaring at Finnian and gasping

expression calm. "You should

a long, searching look,

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

squeezed her hand, his heartbreak almost

respond. She didn't even know what she felt anymore. Just yesterday, Finnian had confessed his feelings to her; today, he was determined to be with Liliana. Thinking back on the

voice clear. "Grandpa, there's something I've never told you, but I think you

"What is it?"

Qu

about me, but the truth is our relationship has never been good.

was gentle but firm. She nearly said outright

Mr. Everly listened, utterly exhausted,

blame Amara for not wanting Finnian. Only

l.ne

her, how could she possibly like him? For years, it had been Mr. Everly Finself, swallowing his pride and

I'm tired. I need to lie down for

"Rest well, Grandpa.

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

deeply, no longer wanting to dwell on it, and finally closed

found Finnian still in the living room. He'd

Chapter 365

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looking away, steeling

up. "Let

"That's not necessary-"

you," he

walked out to his car, and

real," she murmured, her voice

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

it would come with such generosity. Now

they had been given a

she looked up at

and awe.

she whispered. "Thank you so

every touch a

in the best way - a man who didn't need

that warmth felt

she thought bitterly. It's the ordinary days

silence at dinner, the ache

life out of pride instead of

"Alex, I'm warning you!

keep his job. And if you take off your clothes while you're at it, might even forgive the 'trauma' you caused

moment, everything went

Sofina smiled. Not softly-but

her fist shot forward and cracked across his face.

landed square on his

back, clutching his face, howling in

the crowd gasped.

u are."

why you're here. You came chasing my

of Katarina's sight you're fucking pathetic

toward the entrance like a man hauling out a scandal.

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

over."

her backside as the folder burst open, papers scattering across

sure you take care of

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

after she got back. A few days later, Liliana set

side by side in front of a house. Liliana's arm was looped through Finnian's, her face beaming with joy.

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

captioned: "So grateful to have you."

did it feel

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 never been concrete evidence

Everly Group didn't issue a statement, they didn't try to take down Liliana's post either. Their silence was

Liliana was suddenly flooded with messages,

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

this. Maintaining her graceful smile, Liliana answered their questions one by one,

?

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

But so what?

she'd be the only woman in Finnian's life. When that day came,

I heard you had a

hospital after his accident, and another few days recovering at home. Now he was

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

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

with her, and they'd even had dinner together a few times He'd always genuinely approved of her

Liliana, Hogan had been the only member

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

meaningless exchanges, he cut

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

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

her dressing room, his brow furrowed, thoughts tangled up like a knot he

spotted Amara coming

been days since he'd seen Amara's real face, but every time he ran into her unexpectedly,

over to her, blurting out, "You know Finnian and Liliana are

eyed him warily, not sure why he'd suddenly brought this up. "Weren't they already

her, but Amara cut him off. "Does it even matter? Did you

He frowned, frustrated.

with Finnian's child, they'd never actually been a couple. All that intimacy had been just an

least as far as Finnian knew-there shouldn't be anything left between them He'd wanted to explain

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

he actually wanted to

reason he'd come to

puzzled. "Why would

from Finnian, and yes, the news had stung at first. But she'd already

was lying. His frown deepened. "You

answered without hesitation.Chapter

made Liliana clench her fists, her eyes darkening

the month rolled around. Whispers of Winter would wrap up filming in just over two weeks, and the set was a whirlwind of activity. Everyone's workload had doubled or even tripled, but no one complained. The sooner they finished, the sooner they could rest; the whole team was fueled by the

night. This evening was no

like he owned the place, flopping onto the couch

before saying, "Have you noticed? Lately, Finnian and Liliana

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

Liliana these past few

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