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."

Heather showed him a bashful smile. She was not angry at all. In fact, she felt quite pleased inside.

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

With access to the Stonebrook family's cultivation resources, her strength would surely advance by leaps and bounds, making it only a matter of time before she surpassed Kaitlyn.

She might even secure a place among the four great ladies in the future.

Denzel smiled a

and said, "My son saw

Knott once not long ago,

first sight for him.

lost

his appetite and many.

over her. As his father, I became anxious,

Cóntent

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

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

though smaller, contained dozens of

coins, a box of top-grade

gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880 thousand, which was Chapter

scarce in the market. When Martin

physical constitution,

constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even helped them

you satisfied with

satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin

does that mean you agree to

Mr. Camden is a remarkable man. For him to be interested in my daughter is an

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

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

Stonebrook, we've recently provoked someone whose strength is

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

scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder.

commoner.

Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later, when my illness flared up,

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

we can call off the engagement,

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

Heather. I don't mind.

understanding," Heather forced out a couple

knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the

she hoped to handle

agreed to marry him. But what I never

got engaged, he demanded that I sleep

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

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

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

replied, "I heard he should be under 30 years old.

cultivators improve their skills, their lifespans increase. There

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

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

is definitely

scoffed. "Isn't he just an early-stage

Camden's engagement spread

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

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

wasn't on par with the daughters of the four great families, her looks

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

boundless potential and

compensated for her comparatively

hearing the news of their engagement, many women felt envious and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the Stonebrook family's daughter-in-law was

peers, especially those who secretly admired Heather, were

Heather was beautiful, her

invested in a vast

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

now to boost the cultivation of those around

an exhausting process, so Sebastian took breaks periodically to rest. One day, after finishing his pill refinement session, Hendrick came

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

One of them is

"Yes,

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

"Mr. Wilder, are you planning to

if I don't go, wouldn't

both hate you to the core

father is right. You mustn't

walking right into their

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

but the Stonebrook family has many powerful figures. If you go you're

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your concern, but

They're not

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

ie

in the southern region, even stronger than the Netherworld Sect. They shouldn't

please listen to us

avoided. If they're out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next

confront them sooner

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

dressed in a colorful gown, with a veil partially hiding her

Gardner, is there something you need from me?" Sebastian asked.

Sebastian nodded.

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

waiting here just to tell me this?"

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

care so much about me.

scoffed and

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

There's always hope as long as you're alive. With your talent, you're destined to become a peerless

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

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

the atmosphere was festive

a local powerhouse, the Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending Korbin and his daughter to personally attend

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

Heather a woman

body had already been seen and touched by

Sebastian.

tabs on

just at that moment, "Mr. Camden,

the exits once he enters. Make

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

nodded in satisfaction. "By the

today. But with the family's third

again in

that moment, Sebastian and his companions

doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise when he spotted

also taken aback. She had already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet

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

place isn't exactly a dragon's lair. Why wouldn't

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

"Brat, today next year will be your death

chance. If you kneel down, admit your mistakes,

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

sneered. "I invited you here just

that just because he came to congratulate the couple, Mr.

him live. I can't tell if this guy

to hurl insults. Among all the people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had done to her, seeing him in

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

things. If you want to live today, the only way

this, Sebastian laughed and his smile was full

are

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

dare you insult my woman? You've got

it. This guy must be

asked, he might have had a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now he's probably wishing for death

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

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

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

energy

day, shevited me

into her room, and

"Shut up!"

quickly interrupted Sebastian while snapping,

on purpose. You can't

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

you have?"

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

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

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

she drugged me that day, I couldn't resist and ended up sleeping with her. But what I didn't expect was that she was using an evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and

"To slander my woman right in front

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

him! He's making it all up! Even if an examination proves

"Camden, this guy has ulterior motives.

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

stop standing around and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian

verify everything

releasing a powerful aura that felt as vast and overwhelming as the sea, making it hard for everyone to

aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is truly impressive," the onlookers said as their eyes filled

and Hendrick felt apprehensive. While they were also

was a middle-stage

had some sense in you,

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

the way, I left a few scratch marks on her chest because I got a bit rough. They're probably still

instinctively covered her chest with her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just bluffing; those marks

However, Heather's reaction

leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing she

Heather was

now, you're spouting lies! I swear I'll cut out your tongue and feed it

and he was infuriated by the

was one of the four major families of the southern

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster.

move, the pressure from his released aura alone made

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

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

resounding sound, Septimus' arm shattered

pained scream

with a swift movement, Sebastian chased him down and grabbed

"What?"

was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage

strength was

were the most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian

Sebastian was just an ordinary person, perhaps at most a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or divine

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

Stonebrook family!

approached Sebastian, his

a favor? I'll have him release Septimus,

Although her face was hidden, she had an

her even more enticing than he had imagined. He nodded and said,

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

out his own eyes, and breaks

gouging out his eyes and breaking

offering this. This is my bottom line!" Camden declared in a tone that left no

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

place isn't some death trap.

"I didn't realize your strength was so formidable, but

Stonebrook family

eyes and breaking your hands is the best outcome I could

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

the habit of

know it's hard to

than to die.

something, but in the end, she only gave

that for a strong person, losing both eyes and hands was a fate worse than death. Rather than living worse than a dog, it was better to fight to

at least Sebastian could

"Septimus!"

members of the Stonebrook family erupted in

he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how

Septimus? I won't be satisfied until I torture you for

his cultivation

was already walking

each step forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall

a powerful aura. Trey's cultivation must be truly

divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability

level Sebastian's cultivation is? He struck so quickly before; this is definitely going to be a fierce

Everyone nodded in agreement.

shouted, tossing a

and immediately drew it from its

blade resonated through the air,

everyone feeling as though they had fallen into an icy abyss. Their

Godslayer Blade of the

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

Camden to

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

Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could slice through iron like it was

here was Sebastian, empty-handed-what

closed her eyes, unable to bear watching

who had taken her virginity, but after calming down and reflecting, her hatred had

to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted to save

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

strength far surpassed

that moment, she felt completely powerless. The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her entire Netherworld

swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It seemed as though it would split

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

slumped

to capture Sebastian alive, so his sword's target was Sebastian's

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

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

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

"How is this possible?"

and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as they were unable to believe what they

god! He caught the Godslayer Blade with his bare hand! This is insane!" "What level is

Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength, but

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

was jolted by

while nodding in satisfaction. "This sword is not bad. From

a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists

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

If you think you can kill me, I

afraid and angry. "Sebastian, I'm warning you. I'm the heir to the Stonebrook family. Do

of unparalleled

two really are made for

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

to shout at me. If

really plan to kill

and afraid as he said, "Sebastian, if you dare to kill me, our family

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

grew louder as he spoke. By the end, his voice was thunderous, sending shivers

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

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

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

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

coldly. "Whether or not I end up in a grave, you won't be around

you dare!" Camden

from the Stonebrook family around him as they were

Sebastian looked at him with disdain. He took a step forward,

oppressive force weighed down on everyone present. Those below

to remain standing,

Kill him!" Camden

they had no choice but to obey Camden. Gritting their teeth,

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

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

the Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a single

cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

the ground, and her face became

that moment, Martin rushed toward Heather. He grabbed her by

leapt into the air, attempting to

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

his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through the boutique's

hard the tight bun at

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

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

and the child, the day

Jonathan, her posture unexpectedly shy. "Thank you," she murmured,

almost grown-up, impossibly composed for a boy

Ivy, I should be the one thanking

his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added, "Every

a clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes widened,

well over ten thousand, yet this child intended to buy

card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as she sought Nathaniel's

scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel gave

Jonathan wanted an entire rack

course," she said, nearly breathless

hurried off, sweeping the garments from velvet hangers into

watched, envy shining through their

this large could cover the down payment on

more.

and everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal Ivy's triumph, not even

guided

but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or two

over eight million." s

have taken a job at a boutique this

said, firm as bedrock. "I'm buying

to Nathaniel. When he offered no objection, she finally

in disbelief.

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

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

clerk finally set

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

on to

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

apairof

baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a

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

bodyguards trailed them like silent shadows, arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and ribbon-tied shopping bags that bumped against their

still wasn't tall enough to reach his thigh, and

pick out

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

expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy certainly trusts you," he

his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but

like a sky

larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me

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

appeared more like an adult compared to

Cecelia? She would never delegate

sharpened. "You've figured something out, haven't

Jonathan blinked, performing

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

to be exposed so fast, and the realization

you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his wide eyes could

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

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

then snapped shut.Am I

exactly where did you

Dad.” Jon shrugged as

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

door stayed

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

the corridor, she almost

noticed the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms loaded with

have you two been? And

intent on inspecting the

smoothly.

so Nathaniel was patching the hole as

have been nice. I was starting to wonder why

Jonathan gaped, utterly bewildered. When

Jonathan a pointed look. Understanding flashed

carrying the constipation story on

I guess I've been skimping on water

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

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

pinched. Only a woman who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch

up without warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks until his whole face burned as brightly

merely confessed the problem, never imagining the confession

since Cecilia

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

had always been the model child, obedient, courteous, eager to spare adults

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

the way surgeons

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

need them,” he whispered, the words nearly swallowed by

and a glimmer of

tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus

reached home, a courier stood at the gate like a

embarrassed. If you're not sure how to use them,

the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like a stone

particular battlefield. He shook

I can manage

can handle anything." She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that only made the boy's

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

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

"Okay."

clutched the box like contraband and bolted down the hallway toward

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

doesn't look it,"

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

trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is

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

you have to take

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

the little photoshoot ended,

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

wanting loneliness to take root, she sent them daily snippets of her life, including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug, photos of uneaten cookies, and funny anecdotes

often to check on the children and

little, life seemed to find its

will you and the children be able to come back for a

so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's

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

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

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

the final outfit change, Jonathan and Elliot

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

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

"Ceci."

surprise.

this all we're doing today?" His question

do you mean?" Confusion

Nathaniel's eyes.

Cecilia finally read the room. Something inside Nathaniel was storming, evident from the faint tension at his jaw and the way his

eclipsing her earlier cheer. "What's the matter? Who

a single step closer, the scent of

could

arms swept

swift, possessive motion,

chest, as though

really have

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

Her

If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees this, it'll

chin settling atop her hair as if the

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

babies? They're only six-maybe seven-

overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low, laced with a faint, almost childish

her irritation. "You left the

an affirmative, then an idea lit behind his eyes. "Ceci, we shouldn't coddle them. Let's arrange for Elliot and Jonathan to spend time abroad to build some resilience. It'll give us more space

little, Nathaniel. Besides, Elliot's just regained his health, and Jonathan still keeps

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

finger brushing her burning

"Hmm?"

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

click. Her proud, composed husband

slipped out before she could suppress it. "Of course, the kids outrank you. I risked my life

a storm gathering

arms and bolted down the hallway, bare feet whispering across

she would dare make a break for it, then sprang

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

plenty of spare rooms in this house. Pick

gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped her up again, and

turned, and darkness enveloped the

the windows, but inside,

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

face less than an inch away. She could

her trace a finger over that faint roughness, then

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

eyes fluttered open, hazy

he murmured, drawing her even closer until her breath mingled with

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

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

best friends a full day of

arms and mumbled, "Give me a few

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

this attached? I never noticed

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

and ruffled his hair, dark

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

caught her hand again. "Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends, that's all, right? No other

head. "That's

you buying?” he asked,

and something nice for Grandpa

a note of suspicion wrapped in

"Nope."

never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning

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

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

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

padded through quiet

1.

and Elliot

can say all that crap because you're an idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice

truly believed that only a complete fool like Alex could think the

grin widened. "Baroness Wolfsbane," he called. "Conrad here just called you an idiot with

pale, then burned red. He spun

had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and

all people, it was Alex-the outcast,

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

least this

last one of you! From this moment on, Sofina will handle the Eden

The room fell silent.

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

arms, flashing Beatrix a

all you want. When you fail-and you will-you'll drag the

lift this family up, while you bury it in arrogance and shame.

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

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

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

not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to

before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up as wisdom. And you know what they say: hell's full of the

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

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

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

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

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

with a half-smile. "Then

chimed in, "Count me in too! If I win, I want

raising a brow. "Alright. But what happens

crossed her arms, chin lifted. "I won't lose. But fine-I'll

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

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

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

he said calmly. "But if I win, you'll accept our marriage- no more insults, no more

I've already recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's official now. You'll

said. "I like it when

glance at them. She couldn't care less about their childish

to her was one thing-whether the Wolfsbane family could actually secure that collaboration with

roared. "Sofina, you have three days to negotiate

glancing out the window. "You really think

smirked. "Trust? No.

"That's supposed to make me

to someone who hasn't met this family." Sofina rolled her

"Hey, at least I bet on your

brow. "You really

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

her arms. "And

fit right

spent the entire night refining.

luxury car they'd won from Nikolaus-a machine

“we should

on the wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy

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

can."

glancing at him. "You really think this is

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

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

said, his grin widening. "You've got me. That's enough. Come

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

luck," Sofina whispered as the car touched

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

QUMS

laugh. For a moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could carry

felt something empty out inside her-like a room

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

like a beggar asking a

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

occupied by nobles from Winchester:

but tense, each waiting for their

The sight

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a coffaboration with

What on earth are you doing here?" a

Heinrich standing with Katarina Rosenheim,

hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way

sentence.

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 and grabbed Sofina's wrist in a rough. "You're

the hell are you trying to fool? Even your grandmother couldn't get a deal with Eden Group. You're

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

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

me the footage," Alex

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

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

a pile of scattered papers. He knelt

said quietly, helping her pick them up. "What

I say, he just

he hurt you?" Alex asked, gently lifting her

nothing serious," she

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

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

chest. "The same way I like touching

"You really

for me, you looked at me like I was more than data in a

teased each other as they walked back through

a voice cracked

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

froze. The color drained

saw it-the invisible chain that still tied her to

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

stepped forward, placing himself

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

"A gardener telling me how to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like a king. Where's your manager? I

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

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

go. Don't give him anything. He brings

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

But somebody in your place had the nerve to

smile didn't falter; his tone tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you, tell

gardener. He insulted me and tried to

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

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

seem to forget your place. I'm Dietrich

I can fire you

Schiller-apologize. Kneel and beg for

the one who tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't even belong

Heinrich Schiller is? He's one

not joining?" Alex

deserves your respect. You're nothing compared to him! Now kneel before I make sure you

calmly, shaking his

if

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

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

the rising tension. Laughter rippled through

stand up to

joined in. "That gardener's got a name. You know who he

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

that Alex? The walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing off.

and turned to

for my attention, haven't you?

a fool who doesn't know

instead? Three bows, and I might forgive

hand tightened around Alex's arm, her

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

I'll have the

be nothing outcasts. And you know I can make

s

grabbed him tighter

soft but steady. "Let

searching her face. She met his eyes. "Trust

Sofina stepped

hit me,

curse.

God's name do you think you're doing, bitch!"

Security robot - fetch her,

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

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

every syllable a command. "Give

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

one who'll get

jabbed his communication bracelet. "Security

tilted his head. "I warned

crowd began to

she hit Heinrich," someone

Heinrich's

her!" another

ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check.

flagged a threat to her, an alert raced through the

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

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

Any device that touched Sofina

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

robot optical sensors swung

chest. The shock hit him like a

drew an electric whip from a

the skin opened, and dark lines of blood followed. Dietrich's

noise tilting from triumph to alarm. "Is the Eden security unit

tech is already the most

of confusion moved

stop until Dietrich had taken

it hauled him to his feet and kicked him out, shoving him

catch up with the chaos

the blood away with

and venomous. "I'll teach

lunged toward her, his hand swinging

Heinrich had

she was weak, but because

seized his arm. "Find someone your

go of me!"

hard lid. The government

screamed like an animal,

knees, clutching at a hand

go! How dare you let me go!" Heinrich gasped,

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

-

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

to become the next family

they were

the same breath she'd promised Eden that Heinrich would cooperate if the contract went

hall, the polished calm of her diplomacy

was holding Heinrich down,

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

How dare you strike him until he bleeds-I'll call the police

arm. "Calling the police won't help

true?"

Sofina. She hit my

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

Prussia, nobles still carried real power. The law bent

a noble, the punishment

penalties were severe and swift. More often than

protected rank, not

commoner, most people just accepted it. That was

— power didn't need to explain

sharp eyes

attention. Well, you've got it. I think that's enough. Divorce her. I'll marry you later after I

won't divorce

don't have to

your Sant Claire family. When im done

disbelief hardening his face. "Do you really think the

everyone just spins around your

that I'm even willing to marry you. How dare you disobey me! I command you divorce that woman and come back

sound of her voice gave him a headache. He took

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

discovered something she wouldn't admit —

him.

memories still haunted her - the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her from the world, how he cared for her without

everything was cold and transactionaChapter

dreading this moment. He didn't

them, but before he could take another step,

found her staring at him, fierce

told you to stop, Alex," Katarina said, every word

made you kneel in the rain

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

his face. The slap cracked through the hall like a

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

command

this bitch!"

were quiet, but they held frost. "I

Sofina caught it

my husband," Sofina ordered. "You're his ex- don't touch him again. He isn't yours. You're pathetic. A servant's

She had been treated like royalty, and she'd made sure others

the

Rosenheim title was bought

stabbing their own marquis,

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

"She's spitting on my family name! Slap her-make

some Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to prove their

could raise a hand, a silver Eden security robot glided

Group property," it

would-be attackers jerked, their muscles seized,

violence," the security unit repeated. "Please remain calm and await

and unmoored robbed, for the moment, of the

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

get out of here,"

whip. "You always talked about love! You said you loved me! You swore you'd do

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

to rot and fade, it hides behind forced gestures-empty rituals, hollow vows, or even violence and control-trying to keep alive what's

could answer, another android

"this is your scheduled interview for the collaboration. Please proceed to Meeting Room 01. I can escort you if you

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

you?" she asked,

authorized personnel can access it. These people won't

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

woman in

change in location. Please follow me. Miss Von Adler

blinked. "Miss Von Adler?

She's expecting

still dazed, and followed the woman through

Eden Group headquarters. Her

Marlena Von Adler-the most powerful woman in

with the Wolfsbane family. She wasn't supposed to meet the chairman, only the department manager

It didn't make sense.

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

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

Von Adler, chairman of Eden Group. It's a pleasure to

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

she answered, but she kept her

met

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

we work

never disappoint."

to .net

"This is the Wolfsbane Group portfolio.

take a look."

and took the

few pages,

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

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

out.

felt too quick-too easy. She

question, expecting a long negotiation. And yet here

in seconds.

back, her expression unreadable

usual standards. But our founder hold's

breath caught. "Your founder?" she

"May I know who your founder

“Our founder," she said softly, "is the

blinked, unsure

You'll understand when the time

believes in

carried weight. Alex had instructed her not to reveal his identity, and

"Now, Miss Scheinwald, according to your proposal, your initial quotation for

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

head. "Oh no," she said easily. "In

"What do you

instructed me to increase the contract

wants it set at

breath catching. "One...

repeated, barely believing it.

a folder, retrieved a crisp contract, and

dollars in total. If you

at the document in disbelief.

powerful corporations in Winchester-had not

from seeing her! If you dare bring that woman home as your wife, I'll throw you out

struck Finnian again and again, each crack of the cane echoing through the room. Despite his age, Mr. Everly's arm was still strong; after just a few blows, Finnian's crisp

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

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

gasping for

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

shot her a long, searching look,

his voice breaking. "Ama, Finnian's out of his mind. Can't you

threatened to fall as he squeezed her hand, his heartbreak

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

head, her voice clear. "Grandpa, there's something I've never told you,

"What is it?"

Qu

You wanted that because you thought Finnian cared about me, but the truth is our relationship has never been good. Finnian rarely shows me any respect, I would never choose

She nearly said outright that she had no interest

utterly exhausted, guilt weighing on

for not wanting

l.ne

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

I need to lie down

Grandpa. I'll

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

dwell

the living room. He'd changed his shirt,

Chapter 365

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him briefly before looking away, steeling herself as she

leave. But Finnian spoke up. "Let me

"That's not necessary-"

to you," he

time to put things to rest between them. She nodded, walked out to his car, and let him

this can't be real," she murmured,

of her grandmother, who had dreamed

imagined it would come with such generosity. Now

they had been given

as she looked up at Marlena,

and awe.

you,” she whispered. "Thank you so

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

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

And losing that

a crisis, she thought

empty mornings, the silence at dinner, the ache of

of pride

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

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 your clothes while you're at it, might even

a moment, everything

smiled.

shot forward and cracked across his

landed square on his nose with a sickening

clutching his face, howling in

the crowd gasped.

u are."

acting like this is about business. We both know why you're here. You came chasing my attention,

of Katarina's sight you're fucking pathetic

the entrance like

in here again. I'm done with you-whatever

over."

the ground, landing on her backside as the folder burst

just make sure you take care

What mattered was that she could finally pull herself

back. A few days later, Liliana set the internet ablaze with a single

a house. Liliana's arm was looped through Finnian's, her

was blurred, but anyone could tell he was

to have you." It looked almost exactly like

it feel so

speculation they'd get married someday. But the Everly Group had never acknowledged anything

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

flooded with messages, all wishing her and Mr. Everly a lifetime

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

of attention like this. Maintaining her

?

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

But so what?

When that day came, these same people

been there long before Hogan appeared. “Hey, I

in the hospital after his accident, and another few days recovering at home.

a while, but it's over now. How about you? Are

fine. The doctor just told me to eat well and get my strength back," Hogan replied casually, dropping

her, and they'd even had

Liliana, Hogan had been the only

if she was uncomfortable,

meaningless exchanges, he cut

"sis- in-law."

"Alright, go home and get some rest. If

left her dressing room, his brow furrowed,

he spotted Amara coming down the

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

her, blurting out, "You know Finnian and Liliana

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

him off. "Does it even matter? Did

He frowned, frustrated.

been a couple. All that intimacy had been just an act Liliana put on

Finnian knew-there shouldn't be anything left between them

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

what he actually wanted

reason he'd come to find

"Why would I be

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

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

answered without

made Liliana clench her fists, her eyes

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

late into the night. This evening was no different-she

owned the

before saying, "Have you noticed? Lately, Finnian

typing, her eyes on the screen. "Weren't they always joined at the

his head. “It's just..... Finnian's gone the extra mile for Liliana these past few days.

of you?" Amara recalled, her chest tightening for a split second as she remembered Louis' teasing words

big deal? Didn't Liliana just have a miscarriage? She's been through hell lately-of course Finnian's going to

"True enough."

only relaxing when he saw no trace of

you planning to do about the baby?" he asked, trying to sound offhand. "If you want, after it's born, you could put my name on

was mid-sip

all over her keyboard, Grabbing a wad

she wiped the keys

you talking about? Why would I put your name down? How are you ever going to find a

marry you, Keith thought

and drawled, "Who says I want to get

parents are on my case about being single, but if I have a kid on paper,

just rolled her eyes. As

was concerned, Keith was talking nonsense-he was probably just worried about the stigma of being a single dad and had

him

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