Under the Veil I Rule

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.

s

"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

Ms. Knott once not long ago, and it

was love at first sight for him. Since

then, he lost his appetite

his appetite and many.

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

Cóntent

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

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

though smaller,

betrothal gifts include 880 thousand gold coins, a box of

the Stonebrook family had truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880

making them extremely scarce in the

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

improved their constitution, accelerated their training speed,

"Mr. Knott, are you satisfied

very satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin quickly

does that mean you agree to their marriage?"

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

inside. With the future title of daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family,

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

is formidable and

people who could cause trouble for

scoundrel named Sebastian

commoner.

Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help

was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this

you mind, we can call

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

I don't mind. It wasn't your

for understanding," Heather forced out

was part of her clever strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the Stonebrook

bringing it up herself, she hoped to handle the

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

soon as we got engaged, he demanded that I sleep with

He then tried to force himself on me, but

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

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

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

skills, their lifespans increase. There are also herbs

he's in his 20s,

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

age is definitely well over

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

and Camden's engagement spread quickly, surprising

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

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

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

importantly, her talents were remarkable. The Netherworld Bell test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level as

genius with boundless potential and

and talent compensated for

even jealous of Heather. After all,

who secretly admired Heather, were equally disheartened, with their hopes seemingly

her cruelty

million gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in

was to find Fressia, secure the third stage of the cultivation technique- whether by stealth or

pills now to boost the cultivation of those around him

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

Heather and Camden are getting engaged tomorrow at

them is for me, I assume?" Sebastian

"Yes, you're

Martin's intentions-it was nothing more than an attempt to use

"Mr. Wilder, are you

wouldn't I be letting them down?" Sebastian replied with

Wilder, I think it's best if you don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their

nodded in agreement. "My father is right. You

right

petty clowns. There's nothing to fear," Sebastian

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

your concern, but those

just clowns. They're

alone, fine. If they dare provoke me,

ie

Stonebrook family is one of the four major families in the southern region, even stronger than the

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

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

to confront them

the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman

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

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

Sebastian nodded.

Stonebrook family plans to kill you at the banquet. Going

to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with

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

didn't expect you to care so much about me. Could it be that you've fallen for me?" Sebastian

Kaitlyn scoffed and turned to

Ms. Gardner says so, then it's surely true. Why don't

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

No more advice,

and shook their heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to his doom. All

Knott Estate, the atmosphere was

Netherworld Sect had shown great respect by sending

end of today, she would be the future daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook family-who

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

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

Sebastian.

keeping tabs on Sebastian's

report just at that moment, "Mr. Camden,

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

won't be able to get away, even if

nodded in satisfaction. "By the way, has my

and likely won't make it today. But with the

again

and his companions entered

What's he doing here?" Korbin exclaimed in surprise

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

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

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

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

today next year will be your death

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

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

mind?" Camden sneered. "I invited you

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

never let him live. I can't

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

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

If you want

this, Sebastian laughed and his smile was full of

immediately grew furious. "What are you laughing

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

my woman? You've got some nerve!"

it. This

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Stonebrooks' third elder, Trey Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood up. They were looking

get angry just yet. Hear me out. I was

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to

One day, shevited

into her room, and

"Shut up!"

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

he's just slandering Heather on purpose.

"Of course, I don't believe him. This guy has slandered my woman-this is unforgivable!Chapter

evidence do you have?" Camden

you let me finish what I was saying earlier? Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me, but I wasn't

quickly turned to Camden and 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

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

"After 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 even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me off a cliff. If I hadn't been lucky, I

slander my woman right in front of me... you've got

me. If you don't believe me, you can have her checked.

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

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

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

standing around and cripple him!" Camden ordered coldly. Whether Sebastian was telling the

Camden planned to verify everything as soon as the engagement banquet

felt as vast and

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

While they were

Septimus was a middle-stage divine

no fear. He smirked mockingly and said, "Camden, I originally thought you had some

or I'll make sure you wish you were dead!" Camden snapped angrily. Sebastian taunted, "You tell me to shut up, but I'll still keep talking. Heather is

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

her hand. In truth, Sebastian was just

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned.

Heather was

bastard! Even now, you're spouting lies! I swear I'll cut out your

a fool, and he was infuriated by the Chapter

one of the four major families of the southern

particular, was a middle-stage divine grandmaster.

move, the pressure from his released

even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little they could do; they were powerless

reached out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it seemed

sound, Septimus' arm shattered

out a pained scream and staggered

him down and grabbed Septimus by the

"What?"

stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated in

strength was

Kaitlyn were the most shocked. Not long ago, Sebastian had participated

warrior. After all, if

underestimated you. If you release Septimus now, I might

family! If you dare to kill him, you won't even have

also approached Sebastian, his

do me a favor? I'll

had already noticed Kaitlyn from the start. Although her face

he had imagined.

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

eyes, and breaks both his hands, I'll

out his eyes

this. This is my bottom

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

death trap. Why

your strength

The Stonebrook

breaking your hands is the best outcome I could

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

not in the

hard to

to five miserably than to die.

Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but in the end,

than death.

slim, at least Sebastian could die

"Septimus!"

the Stonebrook

as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder, how

Septimus? I won't be satisfied until I

his cultivation for

Camden's order. He was already walking toward Sebastian,

step forward, his presence intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint

Trey's cultivation must be truly unfathomable. He's probably at the late-stage

of divine grandmaster, but it's said that Trey has the ability to fight beyond his

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Camden shouted, tossing a long sword to

and immediately drew it from its sheath.

through the air, unleashing a wave

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

be the Godslayer

"That's right. This is our Stonebrook family's Godslayer Blade. Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword, and with it, they rarely met an equal. As long as

Camden to carry the

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

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

was Sebastian,

unable to bear

had taken her virginity, but after calming down

instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted to save her. That all made his actions

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

had come to realize that Sebastian's strength far

were the Stonebrook family. Not even

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

a few miles surged violently, creating an

slumped to the ground while

capture Sebastian alive, so his

as the blade was about to strike, Sebastian suddenly

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

expected sight of blood and mangled

"How is this possible?"

shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned

my god! He caught the Godslayer Blade with his bare hand! This is insane!" "What level is this guy? How can he be

pull the Godslayer Blade out of Sebastian's grip. He exerted all his strength, but it didn't

it over," Sebastian said calmly. With a slight exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let go of the s go

if he was

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

in a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing a

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

killed. If you think you can kill me, I can

the heir to the Stonebrook

get too cocky! The Stonebrook family's power is beyond anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top experts in the Southern Regions, so killing you would be a piece

idiots. You two really are made

the idiot! Your whole family is!" Heather shouted

die, yet you still dare to shout at me. If that's

to kill us?"

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

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

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

one could believe how brazen Sebastian was, declaring his intent to annihilate the

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

has stood strong for over a thousand years,

over the Godslayer Blade technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live. Otherwise, I guarantee you won't even have a grave

end up in a grave,

you dare!"

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

disdain. He took a step forward, releasing

weighed down on everyone present. Those

the grandmasters struggled to remain standing,

Kill him!" Camden

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

Instead, he used the

forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out blood as they were sent flying. Before they

grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped out in a single

The sheer

was terrifying.

ground, and her face became

rushed toward Heather.

into the air, attempting to

the way little Jonathan stepped forward to shield the nervous clerk and decided to let

this will ever happen again," Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of judgment through

so hard the tight bun at the back of her head

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

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

between danger and the child, the day

shy. "Thank you," she murmured, sincerity softening every line of her

small, practiced smile-courteous, almost

should be the one thanking you," he replied,

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

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

over ten thousand, yet this child intended

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

a minor. A purchase of this scale required his guardian's word.

why Jonathan wanted an entire rack

"Of course," she said,

garments from velvet

other employees watched, envy shining through their

the down payment on

more.

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

Ivy guided

the register, she leaned down, voice barely above az whisper “Everything's packed but it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or two

over eight million." s

would never have taken a job at a boutique

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

objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card through the

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

presented the card with

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

clerk finally set

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

"Pass it on to

swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I

apairof

baritone. “You protected Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing.

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

arms loaded with crisp shirts, tailored trousers, and ribbon-tied shopping bags

his thigh,

a beat. “Oh. Ms. Kennedy wanted me to pop in and pick out a few outfits for Uncle Zachary. This is just a quick

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

nodded once, expression unreadable. "Your Ms. Kennedy

small, sour note curled inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for

mood darkened like a sky before

the cloud. He reached out, hooked his tiny pinkie around Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually asked me to purchase a suit a while back. I'm pretty sure that one was

had believed the first fib, it was only

like an

would never delegate adult

sharpened. "You've figured something out,

blinked, performing innocent

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

expected to be exposed so fast, and the

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

rolled his shoulders back and forced a civil smile. "Why would I be?" he countered, voice calm yet edged

clothes for me and Elliot, but none for you. She skipped you completely. That proves

shut.Am I showing it

“And exactly where did you pick up on

Dad.” Jon

expression tightened. The comment landed like a weight on his chest. If even a child could read him, how had Cecilia never noticed? She really doesn't care, does

when the restroom door stayed

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

in the corridor, she almost collided

the bodyguard trailing behind them, arms

And what on earth

on inspecting the

gifts,” he said smoothly.

excuse had been painfully clumsy, so Nathaniel was patching the hole as

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

utterly bewildered. When have I ever been

Jonathan

to carrying the

skimping on water

slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew him into a full- bodied embrace that

a doctor, all right? You're far

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

warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks until his whole

had merely confessed the problem, never imagining the confession would buy him

ages since Cecilia had hugged him

fine if I drink more water. It

been the model child, obedient, courteous, eager

"That won't do. Maybe we should buy

said it with earnest gravity, the way surgeons

daddy. Of all lies you could invent, you picked

I don't need them,” he whispered,

watched, eyes soft with pity for the boy and a glimmer of amused apology for the mess he

her phone, tapped at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a pharmacy's worth of gentle digestive

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

not sure

me? Jonathan stared at the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping like a

he let Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield. He shook his head

I can manage on my

his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that

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

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

"Okay."

and bolted down the hallway

with a plate of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't quite know why, felt

He sure doesn't look it," Elliot

fixed him with a mild but warning stare. "Don't tease

his chest, trying to calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of pitiful," he breathed, each syllable

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

Mommy, you have to take tons of super-cool photos

arms gathering the new clothes in bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back

the little photoshoot ended,

kept polite smiles fixed in place,

including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug, photos of uneaten cookies, and funny anecdotes typed

often

life seemed to find its

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

to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side

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

Your grandpa and I will prepare every one

for a good while longer, then finally

Jonathan and Elliot

hush, holding only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick of a

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

"Ceci."

surprise. "What is

doing today?" His question

don't follow. What do you mean?" Confusion

Nathaniel's eyes. "Nothing," he

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

her earlier cheer.

closer, the scent of cedar from his freshly

could speak

arms

possessive

his chest, as though

have to

with gravel, every

her cheek. Color flared across Cecilia's face. Her

If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees

atop her hair as if the conversation were already

about two married people holding each other? They're not babies

"Not babies? They're only six-maybe

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

amazement slipping past her

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

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

།

watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let him stay

pad of his finger brushing her burning cheek.

"Hmm?"

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

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

suppress it. "Of course, the kids outrank you. I risked my life to bring them into

darkened, a storm

Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the hallway, bare feet

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

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

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

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

turned, and

hissed against the windows, but inside, heat pooled between their

burst of white light, snow glare slicing through

an inch away. She could

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

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

open, hazy with

murmured, drawing her even closer until her

voice came out in

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

had promised her best friends a full day

and mumbled, "Give me a few more minutes. Keep

now did Cecilia realize how clingy he could be, warmth and weight

this attached? I

his mouth. "I

and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing up

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

hit the mall with your friends, that's all, right? No

head. "That's it.

asked, still unwilling to

and something

a note of suspicion wrapped

"Nope."

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

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

just hates it when I leave too quickly. With that familiar assumption, she let

even smaller once the door clicked shut behind her. Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the

rose, padded through quiet

1.

and Elliot off to RaiChapter

crap because you're an idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had

Alex could think

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

burned red. He spun toward the

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

it was Alex-the

liked the girl. But seeing Sofina

this

of you! From this moment

The room fell silent.

worry, Grandma," she said. "I'll

flashing Beatrix a smug grin that

lips curling into a sneer. "Go on, Sofina -try all you want. When

Sofina's worth a thousand of you. She's fighting to lift this family

"You're the half-slave here, Alex -the real embarrassment of this family!

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

Beatrix, eyes narrowing, "you just sit here sneering. Tell me, Beatrix-what's your real problem? Do you not believe in your

not what I meant! I just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that deal, that's all! I'm being

you're not being realistic-you're being a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up

snapped. "You're a fool if

sound that filled the room. "Then let's make this interesting. What

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

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

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

half-smile. "Then let's see who ends

suddenly chimed in, "Count me in too! If I win, I want Nikolaus's car

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

chin lifted. "I won't lose. But fine-I'll play along. What do

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

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

said. "If you lose,

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

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

"I like

them. She couldn't care less about their

the Wolfsbane family could actually secure that collaboration with the Eden

you have three days to negotiate and close the deal.

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

"Trust?

"That's supposed to make

someone who hasn't

bet on your victory. Isn't that

arched a brow. "You really think this

show who's got guts and

her arms. "And what if

right in with

proposals she'd spent the entire night

won from Nikolaus-a machine so rare in

Sofina said uneasily, watching the reflections glide across the car's polished hood, “we should return this car. It's too

wheel. "Maybe it's

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

can."

at him. "You really think

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

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

Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you

the Eden Group's towering headquarters, its glass

luck," Sofina whispered as

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

QUMS

a moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could carry that same

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

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

them was like a beggar asking a banker to lend him

grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front of

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

tense,

Group. The

all every one

of them was hono

thing: a coffaboration with

on earth are you doing here?" a

and found Heinrich standing with

the way a judge's did before

sentence.

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

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

Group gardener uniform when a security drone glided into the room, humming softly as its sensors

the woman you asked us to monitor was just shoved by a guest-he forced her out into the entrance area. Do

me the footage,"

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

on his

Sofina crouched on the floor, gathering a pile of

her pick them up.

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

gently lifting

nothing serious,"

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

like the feel

hand brushed his chest. "The same

"You really

softly. "You cooked for me, you looked at me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive

teased each other as they walked back

voice

here? I told you to stay away from me. I

The color drained from her

invisible chain that still tied her to

years of control doesn't vanish overnight. Her body tensed, eyes flickering, as if waiting for his approval...

stepped forward, placing himself

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

gardener telling me how to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to

dreaming. You're not a king- you're just another arrogant fool. A pathetic worm in

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

his arm. "Let's go. Don't give him anything. He brings trouble."

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

snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out. Frankly, Eden Group doesn't feel

falter; his tone tightened with professional courtesy. "Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you. If someone attempted to remove you, tell me their

Your gardener. He insulted me

in his Eden Group gardener uniform. His brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you

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

seem to forget

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

and

"Why should I? He's the one who tried to throw out another guest, and he doesn't even

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

not joining?" Alex

compared to him! Now kneel before

Alex said calmly, shaking his

fired if you

We've known each other a long time. Just kneel and bow three times, and

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

by the

up to Heinrich? The man really

gardener's got a name. You know

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

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

and

my attention,

it. Your husband's a fool who doesn't

and

around Alex's arm,

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

I'll have

nothing outcasts. And you know I can make that

s

grabbed him tighter and shook her

steady. "Let me

searching her face. She met his eyes. "Trust

Sofina stepped forward

boil. "You hit me, bitch-"

curse.

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

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

supporting him with a hand at the small

worry, Mister Heinrich. I've called security. Twenty lashes. She won't be standing after that her flesh

said, every syllable a command. "Give

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

"The one who'll get

his communication bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish

tilted his head. "I

crowd began to close

she hit Heinrich," someone

know Heinrich's the man

another

glided forward and ran its routine: ID scan, threat assessment, authorization check. Its

system flagged a threat to her, an alert raced through

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

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

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

the previous command.

optical

and slammed it into Dietrich's chest. The shock hit

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

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

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

tech is already the most advanced," someone muttered,

ripple of confusion moved through

stop until Dietrich

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

mind struggling to catch

the blood away with the back of his wrist, his face

low and venomous. "I'll teach

toward her, his hand swinging through

first time. Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over

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

arm. "Find

let go of me!" Heinrich

temper under a hard lid. The government

like an animal, pain folding

his knees, clutching at a hand that felt as if

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

of the Eden Group meeting room like a storm breaking loose. Her heels

-

- a bid to

to become the

were desperater

breath she'd promised Eden that Heinrich would

hall, the polished calm of her

holding Heinrich down, and Heinrich bled

fury. She stormed over and slapped Alex hard.

my Heinrich? Let him go this instant. How dare you strike him until he bleeds-I'll

eyes and released Heinrich's arm. "Calling the police won't help you," he said coolly. "I didn't hit

that true?"

was Sofina. She hit

a noble. You're a coward wearing someone else's name. Sue a noble if

Prussia, nobles still carried real

noble, the punishment could be

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

law protected rank,

commoner, most people just

— power didn't

sharp eyes

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

won't divorce her. Go ahead

don't have to be

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

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

you? That everyone just spins around

to marry you. How dare you disobey me! I command you divorce

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

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

she wouldn't

him.

him now, the memories still haunted her - the nights Alex cooked for her, the way he shielded her from the world, how he cared for

was

moment. He didn't want to

trying to put distance between them, but before he could take another

at him, fierce and cold, while his other

Alex," Katarina said, every

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

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

for life," Katarina hissed, and her hand whipped across his face. The slap cracked through the hall like a gunshot.

but beneath it something else trembled — a flash of tears she fought to hide, gripping him

command

bitch!" Katarina

front of Alex without hesitation. Her eyes were quiet, but they

hand tightened on Alex. Sofina caught it in one

go of my husband," Sofina ordered. "You're his ex- don't touch him again. He

was used to obedience. She had been treated like royalty, and

the

Rosenheim title

barony by stabbing their own

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

Katarina shouted to the room, her voice shaking with fury. "She's spitting on

forward, eager to prove

anyone could raise a hand, a silver Eden security robot glided between them, its

property," it announced firmly. "Cease all hostile actions

would-be attackers jerked, their muscles seized, and they dropped hard

the security unit repeated. "Please

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

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

out of here," she said,

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

your body,

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

Alex could answer, another android glided up

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

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

about you?" she asked, her voice

personnel can access it. These

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

door opened and a poised woman in a tailored

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

Von Adler? The

ma'am. She's expecting

and followed the woman through the

Eden Group headquarters. Her

Marlena Von Adler-the most powerful

Wolfsbane family.

It didn't make sense.

corridor, her heels echoing off the marble floor, until they stopped in front of

Von Adler-the legendary chairwoman of Eden Group-rose gracefully from behind her

extending her hand. "I'm Marlena Von Adler, chairman of Eden Group. It's a pleasure to

was standing before the most powerful businesswoman in Winchester-someone people usually

voice trembled slightly as she answered,

met

she said. "I came to discuss the collaboration proposal. I

we work hard.

never disappoint."

to .net

a neat folder. "This is the

take a look."

smiled—a calm, knowing smile and took the

a few pages, then closed

voice soft but sure, "I've already

blinked, stunned. "Really? You mean...

out.

She had spent weeks rehearsing every

a long

in seconds.

back, her expression unreadable but

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

she asked, her

know who

into a faint smile. “Our founder," she said softly,

unsure if she'd

You'll understand when the time comes.

sees something in you. He believes in

had instructed her not

with a professional calm. "Now, Miss Scheinwald, according to

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

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

frowned slightly. "What do you

to increase the contract value," Marlena said

wants it set at one hundred million

widened, her breath catching.

repeated, barely believing it.

and slid it across the polished desk toward

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

document in disbelief. Her mind spun. Eden

corporations in Winchester-had not

down hard on Finnian's back. "I forbid you from seeing her! If

still strong; after just a few blows, Finnian's crisp white shirt was already stained with blood,

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

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

at Finnian and gasping for breath, his shoulders

should go.

her a long, searching look, then turned and

out of his mind. Can't you see? He insists on

as he squeezed her hand,

to her; today, he was determined to be with Liliana.

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

"What is it?"

Qu

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

She nearly said outright that she had

listened, utterly exhausted,

for not wanting

l.ne

treated her, how could she possibly like him? For years, it had

her hand wearily. "Ama, I'm tired. I need to

"Rest well, Grandpa.

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

wanting to dwell on it, and finally closed

He'd changed his

Chapter 365

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before looking away, steeling herself

But Finnian spoke up. "Let me give

"That's not necessary-"

just want to talk to you," he added

knew it was time to put things to rest between them. She nodded, walked out to his car, and let him drive her home.nly accepted Wolfsbane's proposal but

can't be real," she murmured,

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

with such

they had been given

shook slightly as she looked up at

and awe.

whispered. "Thank you so

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

in the best way - a man who didn't

warmth. And losing that warmth felt like

she thought bitterly. It's the ordinary

the empty mornings, the silence at dinner, the ache

life out of pride instead of

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

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

a moment, everything

Sofina smiled. Not

Heinrich could blink, her fist shot forward and cracked across his

his

back, clutching

the crowd gasped.

u are."

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

Katarina's sight you're fucking

entrance like a man hauling out

to step foot in here again. I'm done with you-whatever we

over."

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

make sure you

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

days later, Liliana set the internet ablaze with a single Twitter

house. Liliana's arm was looped through Finnian's, her face beaming with joy. The

but anyone could tell he was the CEO-no,

"So grateful to have you." It

did it

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

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

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

walked on, people flocked around her, eager to curry favor. Some even joked about

had been ages since she'd been the center of attention like this. Maintaining her graceful smile, Liliana answered their

?

to stay by her side with her life on the line. Now, with everyone

But so what?

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

Hogan appeared. “Hey, I heard you had a

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

softly. "I'm alright. Things were tough for a while, but

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

always gotten along well with her, and they'd even had dinner together

the only member

tell-she was a master at hiding her emotions. Even if she was uncomfortable, she'd never let

he cut the conversation short. "I'm heading out. Let's catch up

hadn't called her "sis- in-law."

"Alright, go home and get some rest. If you're not feeling well, call

her dressing room, his brow furrowed, thoughts tangled up like a knot he couldn't

spotted Amara coming down

real face, but every time he ran into her unexpectedly, her beauty still took him

to her, blurting out, "You

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

cut him off. "Does

He frowned, frustrated.

Finnian's child, they'd never actually been a couple.

be anything left between them He'd wanted to explain

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

the explanation and just asked what he actually wanted to know: "Nothing, really. Aren't you upset seeing them

real reason he'd

puzzled. "Why

moved on from Finnian, and yes, the news had stung at first. But

carefully. She didn't look like she was lying. His frown deepened.

Amara answered without hesitation.Chapter

Liliana clench her fists,

two weeks, and the set was a whirlwind of activity. Everyone's workload had doubled or even tripled, but no one complained. The sooner they finished, the sooner they could

naturally working overtime, revising scripts late into the night. This evening

called, barely glancing up. Keith strolled in like he owned the place, flopping onto the couch and pouring himself a glass of water with

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

paused, then resumed typing, her eyes on the screen. "Weren't they always joined

replied, shaking his head. “It's just..... Finnian's gone the extra mile for Liliana these past few days. You haven't noticed him running back and forth on set? The way he looks

took better care of Liliana than I take care of you?" Amara recalled, her chest

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

"True enough."

kept a close eye on Amara's expression, only relaxing when he saw

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

mid-sip

splattering water all over her keyboard, Grabbing

wiped the

down? How

want to marry

drawled, "Who

but if I have a kid on paper, that'll keep

just rolled her eyes. As far

worried about the stigma of being a single dad and had come up with this harebrained scheme as

walked over and rapped him on the head. KeithChapter

“I know you've always worried about me," she said, her voice light, "but there's really no need. I've got looks, I've got money, and honestly, raising my kid on my own suits me

were more like family than friends. They always found different ways to look out for her-Elysia with her warm, attentive gestures, Keith

tonight had completely blindsided her, she could still sense his good intentions

she was still utterly clueless. He sighed, clearly giving up hope that she'd catch

lightly against her forehead. "Alright, alright, have it your way. My offer still stands-if you ever

already." Amara gave him

was working overtime that night. It was nearly ten, but there was still one more scene

her laptop and went outside to watch from behind the camera. Keith and Liliana were already in position, standing in front of the

the two actors took a step apart, and Cedric moved behind the camera to adjust the final

to call "action," Keith suddenly raised his hand to

wrong?" Cedric

think we should fake the

fell over

was pretty standard, but usually it was the actress who requested it. Having the male lead bring up first, especially with someone like

been the one to request the camera trick. This time, with Keith bringing it up first,

only look worse. She curved her lips into a teasing smile.

Amara and covered her mouth as

immediately, her expression turning

be interfering on set, but the last thing she wanted was for