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

After Denzel was done speaking, he clapped his hands, and the servants immediately opened the boxes.

The first three boxes were filled with gleaming gold coins. They were followed by a box of jewelry, a box of gemstones, a box of medicinal. herbs, a box of antique paintings, a box of aged wine, and a box of pills.

The pill box, though smaller, contained dozens of bottles.

"The Stonebrook family's betrothal gifts include 880 thousand gold coins, a box of top-grade gemstones, a box of premium medicinal herbs, some antiques..."

One had to admit, the Stonebrook family had truly gone all out. The gold coins alone amounted to 880 thousand, which was Chapter 661

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

Purification Pills could cleanse the body, improve physical constitution, extend life, and greatly enhance a warrior's physique.

When consumed by warriors, these pills significantly improved their constitution, accelerated their training speed, and even helped them break through bottlenecks.

Denzel said proudly, "Mr. Knott, are you satisfied with the Stonebrook family's betrothal gifts?"

satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually," Martin

does that mean you agree to their

For him to be interested

overjoyed inside. With the future

it for a year later. Martin then mentioned

is formidable and who is extremely arrogant.

many people who could cause trouble for you.

scoundrel named Sebastian Wilder. He's just

commoner.

a strange disease once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me.

powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling you this not just to reveal how despicable he is, but also to be upfront about

we can call

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

don't mind.

Camden, thank you for understanding," Heather

already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the Stonebrook

bringing it up herself, she hoped to handle

I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing but a beast. He's worse

engaged, he demanded that

refused him. He then tried to force himself on

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

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

he should be under 30 years old. How could

There are also herbs and pills

his 20s, but his real age

at the early pinnacle stage of diving

is definitely well over

"Isn't he just an early-stage

of Heather and Camden's

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

daughter of Holton's Knott Estate, it

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

test showed her potential at five rings, placing her on the same level as Kaitlyn and the Netherworld Sect's founding

with boundless potential and

and talent compensated for

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

admired Heather, were equally disheartened,

Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty

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

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

now to boost the cultivation of

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

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

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

nodded. "Yes,

immediately saw through Martin's intentions-it was nothing more than an attempt to use the Stonebrook

are you planning

go, wouldn't I

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

nodded in agreement. "My father is

right

a bunch of petty clowns.

shouldn't be so careless. know you're strong, but the Stonebrook family has many powerful figures. If you go you're bound to

Hendrick warned.

to .net

unmoved. "I appreciate your

clowns. They're not

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

ie

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

Wilder, please listen to us and

If they're out for revenge, they'll cook up something else next time even if

them sooner rather

his group approached the entrance of Knott Estate, a woman

with a veil partially hiding her stunning beauty-it was

Sebastian asked. "Are you

Sebastian nodded.

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

been waiting here just to tell me this?" Sebastian asked with

you and thought I'd

you to care so much about me. Could it be that

scoffed and

says so, then it's surely

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

No more advice, please," Sebastian

both sighed and shook their heads, thinking Sebastian was marching to his

Estate, the atmosphere was festive and

had shown great respect by sending Korbin and

by the end of

woman both stunning and neredibly talented was something that would inspire envy in

side-Heather's body had already been seen and touched by Sebastian So the only way to remove that thorn

Sebastian.

tabs on Sebastian's movements, and

just at that moment, "Mr. Camden,

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

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

nodded in satisfaction. "By the way, has my father

head ran into some issues and likely won't make it today. But with the family's third elder and the seventh elder here, dealing with that brat will

again in

Sebastian and his

exclaimed in surprise when he spotted

She had already warned Sebastian about the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still

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

"This place isn't exactly

Since you've come today, don't expect to leave here

smile. "Brat, today next

chance. If you kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out your own eyes, and break your

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

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

guy is such an idiot. He thinks that just because he came to congratulate the couple, Mr. Camden would let him go. He

Knott's reputation. Mr. Camden would never let him live. I can't tell if this guy

Among all the people present, aside from Hendrick and Abigail, only Kaitlyn seemed worried about Sebastian. Despite everything Sebastian had

your engagement party. Killing someone might bring bad

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

his smile

furious. "What are you laughing at, you

many good women out there. Why on earth did

woman? You've got some

lost it. This

might have had a slim chance to live. But insulting Ms. Knott? Now

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Stonebrrok, and seventh elder, Septimus Stonebrook stood

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

practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

energy to enhance

day, shevited

me into her room, and

"Shut up!"

interrupted Sebastian while snapping, "Stop spouting nonsense and tarnishing

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

I don't believe him. This guy has slandered my woman-this

you have?"

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

nonsense!" Heather 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 can't believe

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

evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me off

right in front of me... you've

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

to him! He's making it all up! Even if

guy has ulterior motives. Don't fall

and she began to feel uneasy under his gaze. Doubts crept into his mind as he wondered, "Could this guy

Whether

for Heather, Camden planned to verify everything as soon as the engagement banquet

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

divine grandmaster? Just the aura alone is enough to make me almost suffocate. This is

they were also divine grandmasters, there were clear

was a middle-stage divine grandmaster, significantly

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

tell me to shut up,

a few scratch marks on her chest because I got a bit rough.

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

However, Heather's reaction

everyone stunned.

tricked, Heather was

you're spouting lies! I swear I'll cut out your

fool, and he was infuriated by

of the southern region, with all their elders being

a middle-stage divine grandmaster. His power was

the pressure from his released aura alone

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

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

sound, Septimus' arm shattered

let out a pained scream

movement, Sebastian chased him down and grabbed Septimus

"What?"

into chaos. Everyone was utterly stunned. A powerful middle- stage divine grandmaster like Septimus had been defeated in a single

strength was beyond

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

just an ordinary person, perhaps at most a warrior. After all, if he were

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

he's from the Stonebrook family! If you dare to kill him, you won't even have a grave to

Sebastian, his

you do me a favor? I'll have him release Septimus,

face was hidden, she had an undeniable allure

close distance, Camden found her even more enticing than he had

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

and breaks both his hands, I'll spare

replied, "Mr. Camden, isn't gouging out his eyes and breaking his

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

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

place isn't some death trap. Why shouldn't I come?"

said, "I didn't realize your strength was

The Stonebrook family

out your eyes and breaking your hands

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

the habit

know it's hard to accept,

five miserably than to

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

worse than death. Rather than living worse than a

slim, at least Sebastian

"Septimus!"

Stonebrook

seething with rage as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder,

satisfied until I torture

his

was already walking toward Sebastian, his aura

intensified. Every footfall left a deep imprint on

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

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

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

Everyone nodded in agreement.

the sword!" Camden shouted, tossing a long sword

sword and immediately drew it from its sheath. A

resonated through the air, unleashing a wave of

leaving everyone feeling as though

this be the Godslayer Blade

of the Stonebrook family proudly stated, "That's right. This is our Stonebrook family's Godslayer Blade. Our ancestors once roamed the world with this sword,

They hadn't expected Camden

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

nodded in agreement. The Godslayer Blade was a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier

Sebastian,

closed her eyes, unable to bear watching Sebastian's

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

that old scoundrel instead, so she found herself preferring it to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian was young and handsome, and he had acted

getting to 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 in danger—she simply didn't want to

to realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and he

to kill Sebastian were the Stonebrook family. Not even her

blinding white

within a few miles surged violently, creating an

cultivation slumped to the

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

to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out to grab the Godslayer

To try and stop the Godslayer Blade technique with one's bare hand was

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

"How is this possible?"

was equally stunned as

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

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

exertion of his spiritual energy, Trey instantly let

was jolted by

examined the Godslayer Blade while nodding in satisfaction. "This

back!" Trey shouted in a mix of anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing

actually dared to kill two of our family's

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

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

imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one

pair of idiots. You two really are made

are you calling idiots? You're the idiot! Your whole family is!" Heather shouted angrily at

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

really plan to kill

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

you send two, I'll kill both of them. If you send a whole army,

louder as he spoke. By the end, his voice was

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

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

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

technique and come to my house to admit your wrongs. Perhaps then, we might let you live. Otherwise,

I end up in

you dare!" Camden

gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around him as

looked at him with disdain. He

instant, the oppressive force weighed down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster level collapsed to the ground, trembling

remain standing, their

him!" Camden commanded

with terror, they had no choice but to obey Camden.

join the fray. Instead, he used

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

family had been

cake. The sheer ease

was terrifying.

to the ground, and her face became pale

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

leapt into the air, attempting to escape.Chapter

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

Nathaniel said, his voice quiet yet carrying the weight of

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

Relief spread through her limbs like warm

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

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

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

a small, practiced smile-courteous, almost grown-up, impossibly

be the one thanking you,"

of his blazer and drew out a sleek matte card. Holding it up, he added, "Every outfit you brought me earlier, I'll take

announcement hit the staff like a clap of thunder. Jaws dropped, eyes

at well over ten thousand,

flickering

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

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

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

garments from velvet hangers

the other employees watched, envy shining through their

large could cover the

more.

Jonathan was buying, no

guided

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

over eight million." s

asked her, Ivy would never have taken a job at a boutique

said, firm as

When he offered no objection, she finally swiped Jonathan's card through the polished

at the numbers in disbelief.

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

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

finally set the receipt

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

marble. "Pass it on to whatever

then alarm. A quick shake of her head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I

apairof

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

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

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

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

pop in and pick out a few outfits for Uncle Zachary. This is just a quick errand on

and Mom's best friend would never check up on this,

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

sour note curled inside his chest. Vivian remembers to buy clothes for Zachary, but Ceci never

mood darkened like a sky before

reached out, hooked his tiny pinkie around Nathaniel's larger finger, and gave a reassuring tug. "Dad, Mom actually

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

Nathaniel, Jonathan appeared more like an adult

never delegate

"You've figured

blinked,

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

so fast, and the realization sent a tremor of

a theatrical sigh. “Are you feeling unhappy?” he asked, dark lashes lifting so his

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

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

mouth opened, then snapped shut.Am I showing it

where did you pick up on

printed across your face, Dad.” Jon shrugged

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

stayed shut far too long. Taking Elliot

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

corridor, she almost collided with Jonathan

behind them, arms loaded with shopping bags bulging with new

you two been? And what on

forward, intent on inspecting the

said smoothly. "Holiday tokens,

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

would have been nice. I was starting to wonder

gaped, utterly bewildered. When have I ever

throat and shot Jonathan a pointed look.

resigned himself to carrying the constipation story

been skimping on

Cecilia understood what was happening, concern flooded her eyes. She slipped an arm around Jonathan's small shoulders and drew

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

the word confirmed aloud, Cecilia's chest pinched. Only a woman who has carried a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how

without warning, felt heat rush to his cheeks

problem, never imagining the confession would buy him

ages since Cecilia had hugged

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

child,

do. Maybe we should buy medicine. Constipation sometimes

with earnest gravity, the way surgeons announce

Of all lies you could invent, you

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

the boy and a glimmer of

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

home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned

sure

suppositories, despair dropping like a stone in his

way on earth would he let Cecilia anywhere near this particular battlefield.

Mommy. I can manage on my

She ruffled his hair, every gesture brimming with pride that only made the

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

bathroom with you," she said, voice low and

"Okay."

box like contraband and bolted down the hallway toward the

of sliced fruit. He watched his brother's retreating and, though he didn't

constipated? He sure doesn't look it," Elliot

mild but warning stare. "Don't

calm the little jolt of surprise inside. "Jon is really kind of pitiful," he breathed, each

subject with an exaggerated burst of cheer, Cecilia clapped her hands. “Come on," she said, "let's try

take tons

bright cascading layers. One by one, she handed them to the excited boy and stepped back while

ended,

polite smiles fixed in place, but Cecilia saw

including short clips of the boys chasing sunlight across the rug,

in return, video-called often to check on the children and

life seemed to

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

knew Cecilia now belonged to the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward her husband's side of the

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

can. Your grandpa and I will prepare every one of your favorite

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

and Elliot collapsed onto their

only Cecilia and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick of

eyelids drooping, intent on

"Ceci."

jerked in surprise. "What is

all we're doing today?" His

do you mean?" Confusion knitted her

clouded Nathaniel's eyes.

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 jaw and the way his gaze

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

of cedar from his freshly pressed shirt drawing her

she could

long arms swept out

swift, possessive

though staking a claim no one

really have

gravel, every syllable

flared across Cecilia's face. Her blush deepened as she tried to twist

let me go! If Elliot or Jonathan walks out and sees this, it'll

her hair as if the conversation were

married people holding each other?

her eyes, she muttered, "Not babies?

overseas on my own," Nathaniel replied, the words low,

past her irritation. "You left the country

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

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

།

for Jonathan, let

lifted a hand, the pad of his finger

"Hmm?"

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

did it click. Her proud, composed husband was

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

darkened, a storm gathering behind the calm

Nathaniel's arms and bolted down the hallway,

blinked, stunned that she would dare make a break for it,

swing the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice low and teasing.

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

he slipped

latch clicked, the deadbolt turned, and darkness

hissed against the windows, but inside, heat pooled between

glare slicing through the curtains

less than an inch

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

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open, hazy with

her even closer until her breath

Her voice came out in a whisper,

"Stay. Just

promised her best friends a full day

his arms and mumbled, "Give me

realize how clingy he could be, warmth and weight wrapped

were you this attached? I never

at his mouth. "I

laughed and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing

a busy

caught her hand again. "Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends, that's

head.

buying?” he asked, still unwilling to release

Mom, and something nice for

note

"Nope."

Nathaniel with a puzzled tilt of her head. He had never shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over

mood darkened by the heartbeat. He gently pried her fingers

but misread the cause. He just hates it when I leave too

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

rose, padded through quiet hallways,

1.

had spirited Jon and Elliot off to

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

like Alex could think

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

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

humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her so-called

was Alex-the outcast, the

gaze shifted to Sofina. She'd never liked the girl. But seeing Sofina step forward with quiet

this

you! From this moment on, Sofina

The room fell silent.

stood. "Don't worry, Grandma," she said. "I'll do

Beatrix a smug grin that

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

you. She's fighting to lift this family up, while you

real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's

Alex said. "I think the Wolfsbane family is great enough that even the Eden Group will want that

real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking

just think it's impossible for Sofina to make that

fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up as wisdom. And you

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

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

"Fine. You think I'm scared?

that manor outside the main estate. If Sofina pulls this off, that place is ours

if Sofina fails, I want both of you out of the Wolfsbane

with a half-smile. "Then

in, "Count me in too! If

her, raising a brow.

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

love calling me a half-slave, how about this—if you lose, you kneel ten times

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

in too," Felicia said. "If you

flinch. "Fine," he said calmly. "But if I win, you'll accept our marriage-

recorded the bet and sent the document to the government registry. It's official now. You'll have to honor

said. "I like it when everyone

glance at them. She couldn't

family could

three days to negotiate

the window. "You really think Grandma

smirked. "Trust? No. Desperation?

him a look. "That's supposed to make me

want comfort, talk to someone

grinned. "Hey, at least I bet

really think

show who's got guts and who's

"And what if

fit right in with

a thick file of proposals she'd spent the entire night refining. Her eyes were tired,

from Nikolaus-a machine so rare in Winchester that

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

one hand casually resting on the wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy

perfect. Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare buy you one, so

can."

glancing at him. "You

our way up. And when this is over, maybe we'll have a new

shook her head, half anxious, half

need it," Alex said, his grin widening. "You've got me. That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if

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

luck," Sofina whispered as the

already doubled," he said lightly "Remember I'm the gardener of the Eden

QUMS

a moment, her nerves eased. She

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

a polished god. The idea that the

Eden to partner with them was like a

grandmother. She'd accepted the challenge in front of

slowed her pace. The lobby felt like a courtroom-every seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons,

voices low but tense,

The

all every one

of them was hono

same thing: a

you doing

and found Heinrich standing with Katarina

hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way

sentence.

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

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

gardener uniform when a security

the woman you asked us to monitor was just shoved by a guest-he

me the

around Sofina's arm, dragging her

on his gloves, and strode out toward the

on the floor, gathering a pile of scattered papers.

helping her pick them up.

No matter what I

Alex asked, gently lifting her chin, checking

serious," she

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

the

brushed his chest. "The same

"You really

more than data

back through the glass corridor of

voice cracked

you doing here? I told you

color drained from her

invisible chain that still

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

placing himself between Sofina and

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

telling me how to behave? I'm a guest here-l expect to be treated like

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

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

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

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

yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick me out. Frankly, Eden Group doesn't

"Sir, no one here would deliberately offend you.

the man. Your gardener. He insulted me and tried

brow furrowed. "I've never seen you before. Are you pretending to be one of our employees by wearing that

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

"You seem to forget your place.

fire you anytime

and beg for his

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

Schiller is? He's one of the brightest minds in Winchester-soon to join

not joining?"

respect. You're nothing compared to him!

calmly, shaking his

be fired if

each other a long time. Just kneel and

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

to gather, drawn by the rising

gardener trying to stand up to Heinrich? The man

gardener's got a name. You know who he

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

The walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder

smirked and

been desperate for my attention, haven't you?

a fool who doesn't know his place.

and I might forgive

tightened around Alex's arm,

sure everyone in Winchester hears about this. You have

have the whole

back on you-even the Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing outcasts. And you know

s

him tighter and shook

was soft but steady. "Let me handle

She

Sofina stepped

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

curse.

do you think you're

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

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

She won't

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 hurt if

who'll get hurt

"Security

head. "I warned

crowd began to

dare she hit

know Heinrich's

her!" another

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

a threat to her, an alert raced through the

expected-Eve, the household robot

her into his

every linked node. Any device that touched

into the network. "Override the previous command.

robot optical sensors

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

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

blood followed. Dietrich's shout cut

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

the most advanced,"

ripple of confusion moved through

stop until Dietrich

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

frozen, her mind struggling to catch up with the chaos unraveling around

nose. He wiped the blood

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

her, his

Heinrich had struck Sofina before-over and over

was weak, but

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

go of me!"

kept his temper under a hard lid. The government cameras watched

tightened his grip until Heinrich screamed like an animal,

clutching at a hand that felt as if bone and

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

the Eden Group meeting room like a storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the marble floor with

-

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

to become the next family tied

were desperater

that Heinrich would cooperate if

the main hall, the polished calm of her

Heinrich down, and Heinrich bled

went white with fury. She stormed over and slapped Alex hard. "You

him go this instant. How dare you strike him until he bleeds-I'll call the police

the police won't help you," he said

true?"

She hit my

herself steady. "So what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing

still carried real power. The law

struck a noble, the punishment could be death. If

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

law protected rank, not

commoner, most people

power

her sharp eyes

make me jealous, to get my attention. Well, you've got it. I think that's enough.

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

don't have to

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

stared at her, disbelief hardening his

everyone just spins around

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

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

Katarina's voice cracked with fury and desperation.

something she wouldn't admit — she

him.

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

Heinrich, everything was cold

He didn't want to face Katarina—not

could take another step, her hand shot out and clamped around

fierce and cold, while his other arm still

told you to stop, Alex,"

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

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

and her hand whipped across his face. The slap cracked through the hall like a

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

command

this bitch!"

eyes were quiet, but they held frost. "I pity you,"

it in one swift

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

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

heard the whispers

the Rosenheim title was bought

their

beneath their silks and titles they

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

to prove their loyalty. They

Eden security robot glided between

violence is permitted on Eden Group property,"

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

security unit repeated. "Please remain calm and await

robbed, for the moment, of the

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

out of here," she said,

"You always talked about love! You

give me your body, to destroy yourself for me! You liar! You damn bastard!

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

answer, another android

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

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

you?" she

and authorized personnel can access it. These people won't be able to follow." He smiled faintly, calm

Sofina whispered, then followed the android down the corridor. The robot stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The person in charge

woman in a

change in location. Please follow me. Miss Von Adler

Von

ma'am. She's

and followed the woman through

of Eden Group headquarters. Her thoughts

most powerful woman in Eden-want to

Wolfsbane family. She

It didn't make sense.

didn't understand why, Sofina knew an opportunity like this didn't come twice. She followed the assistant through the long corridor, her heels echoing off the marble floor, until they stopped in front of a taff metal door

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

Von Adler,

before the most powerful businesswoman in Winchester-someone

as she answered, but

met

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

we work

never disappoint."

to .net

handed Marlena a neat folder. "This is the

take a look."

and took the file. She opened

few pages, then closed it

already reviewed your documents.

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

out.

felt too quick-too easy. She had spent weeks

possible question, expecting a long negotiation.

in seconds.

leaned back, her expression unreadable but

usual standards. But our founder hold's your very nigh regard. He personally requested this

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

know who your

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

unsure if she'd heard

"Don't worry. You'll understand when the time comes. Let's

in you. And that's why

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

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

"Yes, that's right," she said,

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

"What do you

founder instructed me to increase the contract value," Marlena

wants it set at one

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

repeated, barely believing it.

folder, retrieved a crisp contract, and slid

already drafted the agreement-one hundred million dollars in total.

the document in disbelief. Her mind spun.

in Winchester-had not

cane and brought it down hard on Finnian's back. "I forbid you from seeing her!

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

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

arm, her voice soft

stopped, glaring at Finnian and gasping for breath, his shoulders heaving

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

her a long, searching

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

fall as he squeezed her hand, his

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

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

"What is it?"

Qu

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

firm. She nearly said

Everly listened, utterly exhausted, guilt weighing

blame Amara for

l.ne

grandson was at fault. After all the ways Finnian had treated her, how could she possibly like him? For years, it had been Mr. Everly Finself, swallowing his pride and pushing for them to be together-he

"Ama, I'm tired. I need

nodded. "Rest well, Grandpa.

really did care for her, and he'd always dreamed She'd stay

wanting to dwell on

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

Chapter 365

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him briefly before looking

Finnian spoke up. "Let me give you a

"That's not necessary-"

to talk to you,"

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

real," she murmured, her

grandmother, who had

it would come with such generosity. Now they

had been given a

looked up at Marlena, eyes wide

and awe.

she whispered. "Thank

a deal, every touch a performance. He was

the best way -

him, life had warmth. And losing that warmth felt like

thought bitterly.

silence at

of pride instead

"Alex, I'm warning you! Kneel — and

I'let your husband keep his job. And if you take off your clothes while you're at it, might even forgive

a moment, everything went

smiled. Not

shot

square on his nose with

back, clutching his face,

the crowd gasped.

u are."

about business. We both know why you're here.

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

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

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

over."

shoved her hard through the glass doors. Sofina hit the ground, landing on her backside as the folder burst open, papers scattering across the marble steps. Heinrich glared down at her, disgust

sure you take care of

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

few days later, Liliana set the

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

could tell he was the CEO-no, now the

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

did it feel

get married someday. But the Everly Group had never acknowledged anything publicly, and there'd never

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

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

flocked around her, eager to curry favor.

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

?

whispered behind her back, saying she'd forced Finnian to stay by her side with her life on the line. Now, with everyone falling over themselves to flatter her, she couldn't tell which words

But so what?

woman in Finnian's life. When that day came, these same people would rush to curry her

I heard you

and another few days recovering at

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

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

in Liliana's dressing room. He'd always gotten along well with her, and they'd even had dinner together a few times He'd always genuinely

Hogan had been the

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

meaningless exchanges, he cut

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

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

her dressing room, his brow furrowed, thoughts

he spotted Amara coming down

time he ran

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

eyed him warily, not sure why he'd suddenly brought this up.

hesitated, about to correct her, but Amara cut him off.

He frowned, frustrated.

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

as Finnian knew-there shouldn't be anything left between them He'd wanted to explain this to Amara, but she hadn't let him get a

again, the fact that Liliana had posted that tweet, despite not having a child anymore, suggested things had changed between her and Finnan. Maybe

what he actually wanted to know: "Nothing, really. Aren't

reason

"Why would

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

carefully. She didn't look like she was lying.

Amara answered without hesitation.Chapter

thought made Liliana clench her fists, her eyes darkening

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

late into the night. This evening was no different-she was still at her desk past

in like he owned the place, flopping onto the couch and pouring himself a glass of water with the comfort

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

eyes on the screen. "Weren't they always

it," Keith 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 after

there a time someone joked that Finnian took better care of Liliana than I take care of you?" Amara recalled,

just have a miscarriage? She's been through hell lately-of course

"True enough."

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

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

was mid-sip and

splattering water all over her keyboard, Grabbing a

wiped the keys

How are you ever going to find

I want to marry you,

couch and drawled, "Who says I want

but if I have a kid on paper,

her

stigma of being a single dad and had come up with this harebrained

walked over and rapped him

over and rested her hand on his shoulder. “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

always found different ways to look out for her-Elysia with her warm, attentive gestures, Keith with his gruff but steadfast support. The difference, Amara figured,

Keith's suggestion tonight had completely blindsided her, she could still sense his

she was still utterly clueless. He sighed, clearly giving up hope that she'd catch on to what he meant anytime

alright, have it your way. My offer still stands-if you ever change your mind, just

do your job already." Amara gave

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

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

the two actors took a step apart, and Cedric

just as Cedric was about to call "action," Keith suddenly raised his hand

wrong?" Cedric asked, thrown

"I think we should fake the kiss-use

hush fell over

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

was no stranger to filming kiss scenes, and in the past, she'd always been the one to request the camera trick. This time, with Keith

lips into a teasing

and covered her mouth

brow furrowed immediately,

knew she shouldn't be interfering on set, but the last thing she wanted was for people to get the

member-someone who'd been

over.

much about that sort

words offered Liliana a lifeline, and she quietly let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd been

tugging at the corner of his

that

of chess, this was Keith upending the board in front of everyone. His words

composed she tried to appear, Liliana's hands balled into fists at her sides. She couldn't

be tomorrow's nobody, and vice versa.

Keith's words left Liliana not a shred of dignity.

Keith a cool glance and said, "Enough. Let's get this scene over with.

an instant. "Of course,

in his tone when he spoke to Amara was so

after

someone but the place was deserted. He quickly masked any sign of curiosity and looked

glance. Who

her lip, hiding her unease, and forced a smile. "Finn, something happened on set today. We were supposed to film a kissing scene, but Keith insisted on using a camera it he kept glancing at

And when

out, but it's pretty obvious-he likes

unreadable as ever, offering no comment. Sensing she'd said enough, Liliana deftly steered the conversation

handed his coat to a maid at the door and was just about to head upstairs when Amara stepped

hadn't expected to run into Finnian here. Instinctively, she glanced his way, then quickly looked ahead and pretended not to notice him,

Finnian called out to