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."

him a bashful smile. She was not angry at all. In

region's four major families. If Heather could become the young mistress of the Stonebrook family, it would

her strength would surely advance by leaps

place among the four great ladies in the

Denzel smiled a

said, "My

Knott once not

first sight

lost

his appetite and many.

sleep over her. As his father, I became anxious, soove

Cóntent

his

first three boxes were filled with gleaming gold coins. They were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal.

box, though smaller, contained dozens of

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

truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880

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

could cleanse the body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and

these pills significantly improved their constitution, accelerated their

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

very satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually,"

you agree to their marriage?"

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

shy, but she was overjoyed inside. With the future

quickly settled on the wedding date, setting it for a year later.

someone whose strength is

In the southern region, there aren't many people who could cause trouble for you. Who might this person be?" Denzel asked

interjected, "It's a scoundrel named Sebastian

commoner.

none could

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

we can call off the engagement,

of cold light crossed Camden's eyes. "I heard about

Heather. I don't

Heather forced out a

people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the

bringing it up herself, she hoped to handle the situation

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

got engaged, he demanded

of woman and naturally refused him. He then tried to force himself on me, but luckily, I managed to

table in front of him. "Heather, don't worry. Anyone who dares to bully my woman will die

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

years old. How

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

20s, but

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

age is definitely well over

scoffed. "Isn't he just an early-stage divine grandmaster? That's nothingChapter

Heather and Camden's engagement

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

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

that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with the daughters of the four great families, her

at five rings, placing her on the same

with boundless potential and unimaginable

her beauty and talent compensated for her comparatively modest

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

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

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

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

find Fressia, secure the third stage of the cultivation technique-

to stockpile pills now to boost the

exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One day, after finishing his

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

One of them is for me,

nodded. "Yes,

than an attempt to use the Stonebrook family's influence to

Wilder, are you planning

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

hate you to the core and

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

right into

clowns. There's

Wilder, you shouldn't be so careless. know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has many powerful

Hendrick warned.

to .net

unmoved. "I appreciate your concern,

clowns. They're not worth worrying

me alone, fine. If they dare provoke me,

ie

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

listen to

revenge, they'll cook up something else

them sooner

the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman

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

something you need from me?" Sebastian asked. "Are you heading to the engagement

Sebastian nodded.

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

just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with a

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

you to care so much about me. Could it be

Kaitlyn scoffed

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

With your talent, you're destined to become a

No more advice, please," Sebastian said

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

Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled with

shown great respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to

of the main figures of the day, Heather was overjoyed. After all, by the end of

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

been seen and touched by Sebastian So the only way

Sebastian.

tabs on Sebastian's

that moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian has

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

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

nodded in satisfaction. "By the way, has

likely won't make it today. But with the

again

and

Korbin exclaimed in

taken aback. She had already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still showed up. Was he walking

teeth. "Sebastian, you bastard! You actually had the guts to come. I can't decide if I should praise your bravery or

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

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

"Brat, today

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

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

invited you here

such an idiot. He thinks that just because he came to congratulate the couple,

would never let him live. I can't tell if this guy is naive or just

only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything

"Today is your engagement party. Killing someone might bring bad luck, don't

If you want to

and his smile was full of

are you laughing at, you

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

you insult my woman? You've

lost it. This

to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now he's

Everyone nodded in agreement.

elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking ready to strike Sebastian down at any

"Mr. Camden, don't get angry just yet. Hear me out. I

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy

day,

lured me into her room, and

"Shut up!"

Sebastian while snapping, "Stop

"Mr. Camden, he's just slandering Heather on purpose. You can't believe a

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

evidence do you have?" Camden

finish what I was saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a

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

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

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

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

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

Even if an examination proves my innocence, it'll still be a

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

a long moment, and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze.

cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the truth or not, he

everything as soon

powerful aura that felt as vast and

alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers

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

Septimus was a middle-stage divine grandmaster,

smirked mockingly and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some sense in

you were dead!" Camden snapped angrily. Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep talking. Heather is nothing

the way, I left a few scratch marks on her chest because

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

However, Heather's reaction

stunned. Upon realizing

Heather was

I swear I'll cut out your tongue and feed it

a fool, and he was infuriated by

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

divine grandmaster. His

released aura alone made it

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

Just as it seemed he would

sound,

Septimus let out a pained scream and staggered back

with a swift movement, Sebastian chased him

"What?"

powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated in a single move

was

long ago, Sebastian

ordinary person, perhaps at most a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why

"I've really underestimated you. If you release Septimus now, I might leave your corpse

equally shocked and enraged, and she yelled, "Sebastian, he's from the Stonebrook family! If you dare to kill him, you won't

his eyes filled

stepped forward. "Mr. Camden, can you do me a favor? I'll have him release Septimus, and in return,

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

enticing than he

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

gouges out his own eyes, and breaks both his hands, I'll spare his

isn't gouging out his eyes and

is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone

I

death trap. Why shouldn't I

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

Stonebrook

and breaking your hands is the best outcome I could

replied, "Ms. Gardner, I appreciate your kindness,

the

know it's hard to accept, but

five miserably than to

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

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

the chances were slim, at least Sebastian

"Septimus!"

the Stonebrook family

was seething with rage as he

be satisfied until I torture

cripple his cultivation

Camden's order. He was already

intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on

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

grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the

struck so quickly before; this is definitely going

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a long

caught the sword and immediately drew it from its sheath.

blade resonated through the air, unleashing a

temperature seemed to plummet, leaving everyone feeling as though they had fallen into

be the Godslayer

member of the Stonebrook family proudly stated, "That's right. This is our Stonebrook family's Godslayer Blade. Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with it, they rarely met an equal. As long as one wields the Godslayer Blade, their combat strength instantly

They hadn't expected Camden to carry the

even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand against Trey Defeating Sebastian will be, piece

agreement. The Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a

Sebastian, empty-handed-what chancChapter

unable to bear watching

deeply resented the man who had taken her virginity, but after calming down and

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

even started to develop some feelings for him. This was why she would always instinctively step in whenever he was in danger—she simply didn't want to see him

come to realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers,

trying to kill Sebastian were

swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged

instant, the energy within a few miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere that weighed

slumped to the ground

to capture Sebastian alive, so his

Sebastian suddenly

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

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

"How is this possible?"

Everyone present was equally stunned

hand! This is insane!" "What level is this guy? How can he be this

of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all

slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go

was jolted

in satisfaction. "This sword is

of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing

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

think you can kill me,

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

quickly said, "Sebastian, don't get too cocky! The Stonebrook family's power is beyond anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top experts in the Southern

pair of idiots. You two really are made

You're the idiot! Your whole

die, yet you still dare to shout at me. If that's not foolishness, I

You really plan to kill us?" Heather

was both angry and afraid as he said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family will never

You're nothing more than clowns. If you send one person to me, I'll kill that person. If you send two, I'll kill both of them. If you send a whole army, I'll wipe them out. If your entire family comes at me,

louder as he spoke. By the end, his voice was thunderous, sending shivers down everyone's

how brazen Sebastian was, declaring

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

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

think 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 guarantee you won't even have a grave to

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

you dare!" Camden

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

him with disdain. He took a step forward, releasing

present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed to the ground, trembling

struggled to remain standing, their

him!"

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

fray. Instead, he used the chaos

was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent flying. Before they even hit the ground, they all died on the

grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped out

of cake. The sheer

was terrifying.

to the ground, and her face

that moment, Martin rushed toward Heather.

air, attempting

forward to shield the nervous clerk and

said, his voice quiet

Elodie blurted, nodding so hard the tight bun at the back of her head

finally breathe. Relief spread through

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

between danger and the child, the day

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

answered with a small, practiced smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly composed for

one thanking you," he replied, voice clear

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

clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened,

each ensemble Ivy had chosen started at well over ten thousand, yet this child intended to buy the lot without

hovered around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes

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

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

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

from velvet hangers into

employees watched, envy shining through

this large could cover the

more.

why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal Ivy's triumph, not

Ivy guided Nathaniel

packed but it really is a mountain

over eight million." s

her, Ivy would never have taken

Jonathan said, firm as

to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card through the

the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy, it

the card with both hands, as though returning a crown

courtesy. "Ms. Ivy, I truly appreciate everything

set

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

"Pass it on to whatever gentleman keeps you

shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really It's far too expensive,"

apairof

low, effortless baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing. If you ever hit a

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

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

reach his thigh, and asked, "What business did

Kennedy wanted me to pop in and pick out a few outfits for Uncle Zachary.

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

"Your Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts you,"

to buy clothes for Zachary, but

like

cloud. He reached out, hooked his tiny pinkie around Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a

Nathaniel had believed the first fib, it was only because Vivian's eccentricity made

Jonathan appeared more like an

never delegate adult shopping

sharpened. "You've figured something out,

blinked, performing

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

and the realization sent a tremor of startled admiration

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

a civil smile. "Why would I be?" he

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

then snapped shut.Am I showing it

his throat. “And exactly where did you pick

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

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

uneasy when the restroom door stayed shut far too long.

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

she almost collided with Jonathan and

behind them, arms loaded

two been? And what

stepped forward, intent on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel

he said smoothly. "Holiday tokens, nothing

earlier excuse had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was

well, a heads-up would have been nice. I was starting to wonder why

Jonathan gaped, utterly bewildered. When have I ever been

cleared his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look.

himself to carrying the constipation story on

been skimping on water

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

a doctor, all right? You're far

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

warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks

merely confessed the problem, never imagining the confession

been ages since Cecilia had

I'll be fine if I drink more water. It

always been the model child, obedient,

Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation sometimes needs glycerin

with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce a lifesaving

all lies you could invent, you

he whispered, the words nearly swallowed by the

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

phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a

gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia

you're not sure how to use them,

suppositories, despair

anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook

can manage

his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that

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

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

"Okay."

and bolted down the hallway toward the

Elliot lounged with a plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and, though he

He sure doesn't look it," Elliot muttered

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

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

hands. “Come on,"

take tons of

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

the little photoshoot ended, she pinged the piChapter

Alphonse and Bethany kept polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia

her life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across

elderly couple, in return, video-called often to

little, life seemed to find its rhythm

you and the children be able to

her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side

"Nathaniel and I have decided. We'll come right

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

for a good while longer, then finally

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

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

intent on stealing five minutes of calm when Nathaniel suddenly shifted

"Ceci."

jerked in surprise. "What is

we're doing

What do you

eyes. "Nothing,"

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

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

took a single step closer, the scent of cedar from his freshly

she could speak

long arms swept

swift, possessive

though staking

have to

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

breath fanned over her cheek. Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened as

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

only tightened his embrace, chin settling atop her

holding each other? They're not babies anymore. They should understand," he responded

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

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

past her irritation. "You left the

"Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build some resilience.

Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still

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

hand, the pad of his finger

"Hmm?"

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

did it click. Her proud, composed husband was jealous of

course, the kids outrank you. I risked my life to bring

eyes darkened, a storm gathering

bolted down the hallway,

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

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

plenty of

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

the deadbolt turned, and darkness enveloped the

the windows,

burst of white light, snow glare slicing through the curtains

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

made her trace a finger over that faint roughness, then lower to the soft curve of his

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open,

drawing her even closer

came

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

best friends a full

his arms and mumbled, "Give me a few more

realize how clingy he could be,

were you this attached?

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

laughed and ruffled his hair, dark strands

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

again. "Ceci, after you hit the mall with your

shook her head. "That's it.

he asked, still

for Mom, and something

note

"Nope."

a puzzled tilt of her head. He had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every hanger she touched, as if

by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers loose, voice low and flat. “Fine. Go on,

it when I

smaller once the door clicked shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like a weight on his ribs Sleep had scattered, and

padded through quiet hallways, and

1.

spirited Jon and Elliot off

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

like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had any chance of

here just called you an idiot with half a brain for daring to ask

pale, then burned red. He spun toward the

with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and

people, it was Alex-the outcast, the family

the girl. But seeing Sofina step

least this one had

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

The room fell silent.

Grandma," she said.

his arms, flashing Beatrix a smug grin that

-try all you want. When

eyes hardened. "Beatrix, Sofina's worth a thousand of you. She's fighting to lift this family up, while you bury it in arrogance and shame.

here, Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some

will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's dream—and I believe in my wife's intelligence and

sneering. Tell me, Beatrix-what's your real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking

hands fast. "No! That's not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal, that's

before the fight even started. That's not

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

chuckled—a deep, mocking sound that filled the room. "Then let's make this interesting. What if she does succeed? Want

"Fine. You think I'm scared?

heard the Baroness gave you that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina

through clenched teeth. "But if Sofina fails, I want both of you out of the

half-smile. "Then let's

chimed in, "Count me in too!

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

lose. But fine-I'll play along. What do you

a half-slave, how about this—if you lose,

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

said. "If you lose, I want

if I win, you'll accept our marriage- no

really think you can win this? I've already recorded the bet and

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

Wolfsbane didn't even glance at them. She couldn't care less about

the Wolfsbane family could actually secure that collaboration with the Eden

days

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

smirked. "Trust?

a look. "That's supposed to make

"If you want comfort, talk to someone who hasn't met this

bet on your

"You really think this bet will

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

crossed her arms. "And what

chuckled. "Then I'll finally fit right in with this family-bad decisions and

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

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

polished hood, “we should return this car. It's too extravagant

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

Group-it's perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare buy

can."

"You really

Sofina. We're on our way up.

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

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

toward the Eden Group's towering

whispered as

said lightly "Remember I'm

QUMS

her nerves eased. She wished she could carry that

and felt something empty out inside her-like a room with the

a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old, fractured, scandal-scarred—could

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

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

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

low but tense, each

Group. The

all every one

of them was hono

a coffaboration with power.

earth are you doing here?" a

and found Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim, both

tightened the

sentence.

"I told you a thousand times-get this sort of woman away from my sight. How could you let her walk in here?" Heinrich bowed his head like a man forced to swallow bile. "I'm sorry, Katarina. I tried. I truly did. I don't understand how she keeps turning up. I'll make her leave." He pushed forward

Heinrich barked, his tone thick with mockery. "You? Who the hell are you trying to fool?

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

just shoved by a guest-he forced

me the footage,"

the recording. Heinrich's hand clamped around Sofina's arm, dragging

straightened his collar, pulled on his gloves,

a pile of scattered papers.

said quietly, helping her pick

what I say, he just slips

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

serious," she

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

the feel of

hand brushed his chest. "The same way I

chuckled. "You really are

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

back through the glass corridor

a voice

here? I told you to stay away from me. I don't want you near

The color drained from her

invisible chain that still

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

himself

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

to be treated like a king. Where's your manager? I want to speak with

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

I am? I'm Heinrich Schiller." Heinrich's face went hard." The chairman of Eden Group personally sent me an invitation—said

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

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

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

offend you. If someone attempted to remove you, tell me their name and

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

furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are

building. You don't know all of them—same as↑ don't know everyone here. And if I wasnt officially registered, the security

forget your place. I'm Dietrich Wedell,

fire you

Kneel and

I? He's the one who tried to throw out another guest, and he

gardener," Dietrich snapped. "Do you have any idea who Heinrich Schiller is?

he's not joining?"

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

calmly, shaking his head. "I

fired if

Just kneel and

this, Heinrich-you kneel to me. Three kowtows, then maybe

to gather, drawn by the rising tension.

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

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

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

smirked and turned to

desperate for my attention,

who doesn't know his place. How about you kneel

and I might

Alex's arm, her knuckles

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

I'll have the whole

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

s

Sofina grabbed him tighter and shook her head.

was soft but steady.

face. She met his eyes.

Sofina stepped forward

a boil. "You hit me, bitch-" He spat the word

curse.

name do you think you're

robot -

hustled Heinrich upright, supporting him with a hand at

won't be standing after that her

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

Dietrich. "You'd better cancel that order," he said.

who'll

jabbed his communication bracelet. "Security — attend.

head. "I

crowd began

dare she hit Heinrich," someone

you know Heinrich's the man everyone

her!" another

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

the system flagged a threat to her, an alert raced through

room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina had left

wasn't just a home machine. Alex had wired her into his network bridge so she could talk to

node. Any device that touched Sofina reported to Eve

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

security robot optical

The shock hit him like a

it, security robot drew an electric whip from a holster and began

blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut the air.

noise tilting from triumph to alarm. "Is

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

confusion moved through

until

and kicked him out, shoving him

her mind struggling to catch

bleeding nose. He wiped the blood away with the

low and venomous. "I'll teach you a

his hand swinging through the

had struck

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

on Heinrich and seized his arm. "Find

let go of me!"

his temper under a hard lid. The

like an animal,

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

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

breaking loose. Her heels

-

- a bid to replace the Krugers, who'd been kicked out

win Eden's favor, to become the next family tied to its

they were

Heinrich would cooperate if the contract

calm of her diplomacy shattered. What she

was holding Heinrich down, and Heinrich

She stormed over and slapped

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

police won't help you," he said coolly. "I didn't hit

true?" Katarina

Sofina. She hit my nose." Heinrich

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

Prussia, nobles still carried real power.

immigrant struck a noble, the punishment could be death.

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

law protected rank, not

commoner, most people just

power didn't

sharp

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

won't divorce her.

have

Claire family. When im done with Heinrich, if you behave yourself,

his face. "Do you

to you? That everyone just

dare talk to me like that, Alex!" Katarina snapped. "It's already a blessing that I'm even willing to marry

of her voice gave him a headache. He took

away from me!" Katarina shouted. "Kneel! Now!" Katarina's voice

she wouldn't admit —

him.

her, the way he shielded her from the world, how he

was cold and transactionaChapter

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

he could take another step, her

at him, fierce and cold, while his other arm

stop, Alex," Katarina said, every word

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

anymore. I don't owe you a damn thing. I don't answer to your orders. We're strangers

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

burned bright, but beneath it something else trembled — a flash of tears she fought

I command

this bitch!"

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

caught it in one swift move and snapped

don't touch him again. He isn't yours.

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

heard the

title was

their barony by stabbing their own marquis, the Saint- Claires, in the

silks and titles they were nothing more than well-fed servants gnawing

the room, her voice shaking with fury. "She's spitting on my family name!

few barons who bent to Katarina's will and some Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They

security robot glided between them, its mechanical voice cutting through the

Group property,"

rose and a pair of tasers snapped out. Electricity flashed. The would-be attackers jerked,

fighting. No violence," the security unit repeated. "Please remain calm and

robbed, for the moment, of the power she'd

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

out of here," she said, pulling

talked about love! You said you loved me! You swore

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

gestures-empty rituals,

Alex could answer, another android

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

hand. “Go,” he said quietly. "This is

you?" she

authorized personnel can access it. These people won't be able to follow." He

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

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

been a change in location. Please follow me. Miss Von Adler

blinked. "Miss Von Adler? The

ma'am. She's

nodded, still dazed, and followed the woman through

Group headquarters. Her

powerful woman in Eden-want

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

It didn't make sense.

opportunity like this didn't come twice. She followed the assistant through the long corridor, her heels

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

Von Adler, chairman of Eden Group.

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

as she answered, but

met

Adler. Thank you for taking the time to see me," she said. "I came to discuss the collaboration proposal. I

we work hard.

never disappoint."

to .net

a neat folder. "This is the Wolfsbane Group

take a look."

calm, knowing smile and took the file.

few pages, then

her voice soft but sure, "I've already

mean... it's approved?" Her

out.

easy. She had spent

a long negotiation. And

in seconds.

back, her expression

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

"Your founder?" she asked, her voice barely

"May I know who your

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

blinked, unsure

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

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

Alex had instructed her not

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

she said, her voice

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

"What do

instructed me to increase the contract value,"

it set at one hundred million

her breath catching. "One...

repeated, barely believing it.

retrieved a crisp contract, and slid it across the polished desk

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

stared at the document in disbelief.

powerful corporations in Winchester-had not oChapter

Kevin Everly yanked out his cane and brought it down hard on Finnian's back. "I forbid you from seeing her! If you dare bring that woman home as your wife, I'll throw you out on the

age, Mr. Everly's arm was still strong; after

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

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

stopped, glaring at Finnian and gasping for

expression calm. "You should go. I'll talk to

searching look, then turned and walked

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

fall as he squeezed her hand,

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

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

"What is it?"

Qu

know you've always hoped Finnian and I would end up together. You wanted that because you thought Finnian cared about me, but

but firm. She nearly said outright that she had no

Everly listened, utterly

Amara for

l.ne

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

tired. I need to lie down for a

well, Grandpa.

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

to dwell on it, and finally

Finnian still in the living room. He'd

Chapter 365

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looking away, steeling herself as she

leave. But Finnian spoke up. "Let me

"That's not necessary-"

to talk to you," he added quickly, sensing her

it was time to put things to rest between them. She nodded, walked out to his car,

this can't be real," she murmured,

her grandmother, who had dreamed of a collaboration like this

with such generosity. Now they

had been given

as she looked up at Marlena,

and awe.

you,” she whispered. "Thank you

Every word was a deal, every touch a performance.

the best way - a man who didn't need

losing that warmth felt like

a crisis, she thought

silence at dinner, the ache of realizing you've

life out of

screamed, desperate and trembling, "Alex, I'm warning you!

grin widened, vile and confident. "You're lucky to have my attention Start kneeling, sweetheart. Maybe I'let your husband keep his job. And if you take off

moment, everything went

smiled.

fist shot forward and cracked across his face.

his nose

stumbled back, clutching his face, howling

the crowd gasped.

u are."

you're here. You came chasing my

Now get out of Katarina's sight you're fucking pathetic and irritating."

her toward the entrance like a man hauling out a scandal.

step foot in here again. I'm

over."

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

make sure you take care of

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

days

side by side in front of a house. Liliana's arm was looped

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

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

it feel so

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 they

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

photo went viral in minutes, and Liliana was suddenly flooded with messages, all wishing her

on, people flocked around her, eager to curry favor. Some even joked about when she and Finnian were

like this. Maintaining her graceful smile, Liliana

?

knew perfectly well that ever since word of her suicide attempt had gotten out, people whispered behind her back, saying she'd forced Finnian to stay by her side with her life on the line. Now, with everyone falling over themselves to flatter her, she couldn't tell which words were genuine and which

But so what?

she'd be the only woman in Finnian's life. When

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

days recovering at home. Now he was back on his feet, if a bit thinner

tough for a while, but it's over

just told me to eat well and get my strength

with her, and they'd even had dinner together a few times He'd always genuinely approved of her as his future sister-in-law.

been the only

master at hiding her emotions. Even if she was

Liliana's easy grace. After a few meaningless exchanges, he cut the conversation short. "I'm

moment. This was the first time Hogan hadn't called her "sis- in-law." She couldn't tell if he'd done it

and get some rest. If you're

nodded, then left her dressing room, his brow furrowed, thoughts tangled up like

spotted Amara coming down the

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

and strode over to her, blurting out, "You

not sure why he'd suddenly brought this up. "Weren't they already together for ages?" she

cut him off. "Does it

He frowned, frustrated.

pregnant" with Finnian's child, they'd never actually been a couple. All that

now, with the miscarriage-at least as far as Finnian knew-there shouldn't be anything left between them He'd wanted

that tweet, despite not having a child anymore, suggested things had changed between her and Finnan. Maybe now

Hogan dropped the explanation and just asked what he actually wanted to

the real reason he'd come to find

"Why would I

first. But she'd already worked through those feelings. Why

didn't look like she was lying. His frown deepened. "You really don't have any feelings for

Amara answered without

clench her fists, her eyes darkening with a

weeks, and the set was a whirlwind of activity. Everyone's workload

scripts late into the night. This evening

like he owned the

before saying, "Have you noticed? Lately, Finnian and Liliana seem to be getting even

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

my finger on it," Keith replied, shaking his head. “It's just..... Finnian's gone the extra mile for Liliana these past few

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