Chapter 457: Chapter 483 Wang Hu Confirms His Love

Xiao Hong felt that something was suspicious. She was ambiguous, certainly having committed a serious mistake. Wang Hu should not be dragged into it. Wang Hu nodded; he thought the same.

Bai Fanglan was both ashamed and angry, almost to the point of bursting with rage. But she couldn’t leave in a huff and kneeled before him, choking up, "What’s the point in discussing past events? I promise this will be the last time I trouble you. Please don’t be so heartless; consider the child we lost..."

Xiao Hong interrupted her, "Hasn’t Wang Hu compensated you? Everything has a limit. Once it’s too much, it’s fake. You’re not disabled. You’re healthy, young, and have a college education. What’s so difficult about finding a job? You simply don’t want to work hard yourself and want easy money, but how is that possible?"

"Shut up," Bai Fanglan shouted angrily, "Who asked you to mind our business? Matters between Wang Hu and me are not yours to interfere with!"

Xiao Hong slightly frowned and became silent.

Wang Hu said, "Xiao Hong is right; I won’t help you find a job. If you want to kneel, you can just keep kneeling."

After saying this, he took Xiao Hong’s hand and walked away quickly. Xiao Hong’s entire arm felt stiff, and turning back, she glanced at Bai Fanglan left crying on the spot, then at Wang Hu.

Wang Hu chuckled, "Stop looking. No matter what happens to that woman, I won’t care."

"Hmm, but you’re still holding my hand."

"Is it wrong for me to hold your hand?"

Xiao Hong blushed, "But... but you said it was fake."

"It’s real now. Can I really hold your hand now?" Wang Hu smiled as he looked at her.

Xiao Hong lowered her head, rarely shy.

Wang Hu said, "I need to ask for your forgiveness. I’ve been divorced because I was immature in handling emotions and lacked empathy, like a wooden post, which hurt some people."

"I also dated before, but we broke up due to personality differences," she was quick to say, "Those romantic things aren’t suitable for us soldiers; we’ll be a fitting pair. Don’t ask about the past, but cherish the present!"

Though Wang Hu had a cold temperament, he was quite lenient with his own, giving Xiao Hong confidence that she’d have a good life with him.

Wang Hu laughed out loud, deciding to forget the pretensions. Together, they walked hand in hand.

Thus, Xiao Hong, once just helping out, became truly involved in the relationship, though Wang Hu’s parents weren’t aware.

A few days later, Wang Hu’s father’s lung examination results came out, just a minor inflammation from excessive smoking, and everyone breathed a sigh of relief. Mrs. Wang resolutely banned his smoking and incidentally pressed Wang Hu to finalize the marriage plans.

Both families highly approved, hastily setting their wedding for New Year’s Day, intending to relocate quickly. Otherwise, in such a remote area, how could Xiao Hong be pregnant? The parents were worried.

Thinking it over, Wang Hu agreed; he had been away long enough.

Things were joyous in their circle, but Bai Fanglan was miserable. Pleading with Wang Hu yielded no results, so she sought out other acquaintances. However, her grandfather, now retired, led these people to be extremely perfunctory towards her. Furthermore, Bai Fanglan’s affairs had become widely known, making hospitals reject her due to her poor medical skills.

Soon after her expulsion, she was forcibly discharged and returned home, only to find Bai Chuan had prepared a purchased train ticket for her.

Infuriated to the point of liver pain, Bai Fanglan bit her lip, "Grandfather, are you really giving me no way out? Just driving me away like this?"

Bai Chuan sighed, "It’s for your own good! Staying here no longer holds any meaning. I’m getting old, truly cannot withstand the stress anymore. Don’t worry; every month when my salary comes, I’ll send you fifty bucks."

Bai Fanglan coldly laughed, standing up abruptly, "Fine! Since you dislike me so much, I’ll leave! You’ll get your wish!"

She returned to her room and slammed the door.

Bai Chuan shook his head and went to care for his great-granddaughter. The child was pitiable; Bai Fanglan never cared while working, and even now unemployed, she remained indifferent.

The next morning, Bai Chuan woke up to find Bai Fanglan’s room in disarray. Everything was thrown about, yet she was gone.

Bai Chuan was puzzled; what happened? Then on the table, he found a letter.

Bai Fanglan said she’s left, gone south to find work, aiming to return once successful. The child was left for Bai Chuan to care for temporarily. Besides her jewelry and savings, she also took four thousand bucks from Bai Chuan’s drawer.

Bai Fanglan left in a fit of anger, refusing to believe she wouldn’t succeed! She vowed to get revenge! Against everyone who looked down on her and ignored her!

Bai Chuan worried, struggling to catch his breath, almost fainting. What on earth is Bai Fanglan trying to do!

The child from the next room cried out loudly, and Bai Chuan couldn’t neglect her, so he went to take care of her. Seeing her dark, gaunt face, Bai Chuan sighed deeply too, poor child. No father, and a mother who’s always negligent.

Bai Chuan’s previous grand ambitions were wiped away, leaving him with only taking care of the child daily.

Meanwhile, Sun Chan’s situation gradually returned to calm. Yuan Bing, due to his indecency and attempt at intentional homicide at their camp, faced serious charges. Coupled with Gu Junming’s thorough investigation, a raft of Yuan Bing’s business misconducts came to light.

Including tax evasion, engineering fraud, and bribery, among others, these evidences ensured Yuan Bing likely wouldn’t come out for life. People all around talked about it extensively, mostly cursing Yuan Bing and Bai Fanglan, some discussing Sun Chan.

Zhuang Lin was jumping up and down vigorously, but her husband knew and suppressed her decisively.

Later, the camp erupted with another scandal, overshadowing this one. It turned out Liu Gang secretly wrote reports, intending to falsely accuse Gu Junming!Chapter 645

Timothy shrieked in pain and turned in the direction where the branch had come from. His eyes were filled with fury as he asked, "Who ambushed me?"

There were only trees in sight, and nobody was there. Mad and flabbergasted, Timothy knew that the attacker was strong. A person who could pierce through his palm and then a tree with a branch must be a divine grandmaster.

Hence, he hurriedly summoned his ride-Hurricane Eagle. When Hurricane Eagle arrived, he jumped on it in a hurry and escaped.

Kaitlyn sighed in relief and bowed, saying, "Thank you for your help, sir. Please step out so I can thank you in person."

Obviously, she wasn't going to receive an answer. Just then, Sebastian walked out of the forest next to her. Thinking that the hidden expert had revealed themselves, Kaitlyn twirled around and found Sebastian instead.

"It's you? Why are you still here?"

"Didn't you ask me to be your pretext? I can't leave just like that," Sebastian said.

"Aren't you afraid that I'm going to kill you?" Kaitlyn said dangerously.

Smiling, Sebastian shook his head. "You would have killed me already if you wanted to. Why did you wait until now?"

"It's because you still have some use. Once you lose your value, I'll kill you," she said coldly.

Sebastian smirked without a word. Finally, he realized that Kaitlyn was a kind person. She was tough on the outside but soft on the inside. Although she kept saying she'd kill him, she never meant it.

"I'm returning to the sect. Don't forget your promise earlier to help me find that old man within a month. If you can't do it, I swear I'll kill you," Kaitlyn uttered and left.

"Hang on," Sebastian stopped her.

"What else?" she asked, looking back at him.

"Do you know how to leave this world?" Sebastian implored.

Besides the advanced third stage technique, this was currently his other big concern. Many people were waiting for him and they must be worried since he had been missing for such a long time He must

find his way back as soon as

possible.

s

"Leave this world?" Confusion was written all over Kaitlyn's face. "I have no idea

what you're talking about. I'm going now if there's nothing else."

Sebastian nodded and left the spot as well because he could sense people heading this way at a high speed. They must be the experts from Netherworld Sect who had heard squads of the fight from earlier. s

He planned to make a trip to Holton and find out from a few more people about ways to leave this world.

Unbeknownst to him, a young man was leading a group of people to Jenna's house. His name was Sean Knott, Martin's nephew and Heather's cousin.

With a loud bang, Sean kicked and broke the wooden door before marching into the yard aggressively. "Sebastian Wilder, get out here!"

Jenna and Fressia rushed out after hearing the commotion. "Who are you?"

Sean's mouth opened to say something, but he suddenly saw Fressia and was smitten by her beauty. "What a gorgeous woman! Are you Sebastian Wilder's wife?"

"Yes. Do you know my husband?" Fressia asked.

"Damn it. That bastard is really lucky to marry such a beautiful woman." Sean's face was full of jealousy. "Where's SebastianChapter 646

Upon Sean's command, a group of hitmen charged at Jenna and Fressia. One of them kicked Jenna so hard that he broke her legs, then they rained punches and kicks on her.

"Jenna! Stop it!" Fressia wanted to save Jenna, but she was helpless and couldn't even save herself.

A few men dragged her into the house. Despite having cultivation, she didn't know how to put it to good use.

"Remove all her clothes! I'll be the first, and the rest of you can queue up after me." Sean was losing patience, starting to undress after stepping into the house.

Fressia was so scared that she turned pale. She pleaded with them miserably, but they had no compassion at all. Instead, they were even more excited.

Lying in the yard, Jenna didn't even have the strength to get up. Besides cursing loudly, there was nothing else she could do.

Although the neighbors heard the commotion, they didn't dare to stick their noses into this because someone recognized that these people were from the Knott Estate.

...

Holton was a bustling city, and the streets were full of people. Suddenly,

hoofbeats echoed from the front. It turned out that a carriage was out of control, rampaging on the street. Terrified, the pedestrians jumped out of the way in panic.

Sebastian stood at the side of the road as well, but a little girl's cries in the middle of the road caught his attention.

Seeing that the carriage was about to hit her, the little girl froze on the spot in fright and continued crying. Without hesitation, Sebastian stood in front of her in a flash and placed a palm on the horse's head.

The big and tall horse fell from the huge impact, flipping the carriage to the side as well.

"Ah!" A woman in the carriage shrieked, and two people dashed out of the carriage.

They were a middle-aged man and a gorgeous young lady. The moment she stood up, she turned to Sebastian and said in a huff, "How dare you flip our carriage! The nerve of you!"

"I did it to save a life." Sebastian pointed at the little girl.

When the young lady wanted to say some more, the middle-aged man stopped her. "Abigail, it's alright. He didn't do it on purpose. Moreover, we almost hit someone earlier."

"How are you doing, Father?" the young lady, Abigail Watson, asked in concern.

"I'm fine. I can still take it." The middle-aged man seemed frail and left with Abigail's help.

"You're in a terrible condition now. If you don't receive treatment on time, you'll pass away in half an hour," Sebastian said.

"How dare you cure my father!" Abigail was enraged.

Sebastian chuckled softly. "I'm merely telling the truth. Your father sustained a hidden injury when he was younger and has been dragging it way too long. It's a miracle he's alive until now." s

that

ghat

"How do you know that my father has a hidden injury from his early years? Who are you?" Abigail asked warily.

"I'm a doctor. Your father's illness is clearly written on his face, and I can tell with just a look," Sebastian explained proudly.

"Since you're so amazing, do you have a way to treat it?" she asked with a hopeful face.

All these years, they had visited

many famous doctors and even

whonet

asked help of the

the help of the alchemist

from

fort

otherworld Sect, button

avail.

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"It's a piece of cake to me. He'll be as good as new with one pill," Sebastian answered.

Abigail grabbed his arm anxiously. "What pill is that? Let me have it! I promise to

pay you handsomely as long as it can save my father."

"The pill is very precious," Sebastian explained.

"That's not a problem. My father isChapter 647

"Do you know how to leave this world?" Sebastian asked.

"Leave this world?" Abigail wore a look of confusion.

Hendrick Watson suddenly interjected, "Mr. Wilder, do you mean leaving Coreland?"

"Do you know about it?" Sebastian was exhilarated. His biggest fear was that no one knew about it.

"So, the records in the ancient books are real! Honestly, I didn't know about it. I've only seen some records in an ancient book," Hendrick explained.

"Where's the ancient book?" Sebastian asked anxiously.

"Wait a minute. I'll ask someone to bring it." Then, Hendrick ordered a worker to bring the ancient book.

Hendrick soon found the part where Coreland was recorded. After checking it carefully, Sebastian finally found a clue. "The Abyss!"

If the records were accurate, the way out of Coreland was through The Abyss.

"Mr. Wilder, The Abyss is a death zone. Anyone who goes in there will die. Don't act recklessly," Hendrick advised.

Abigail nodded in agreement. "Yes. The Abyss is one of the three forbidden areas. For thousands of years, no one has walked out of there alive.

"The records in the ancient book may not be correct. I think it's just a myth. It's impossible to have another world. That's all nonsense."

Sebastian merely smiled without a reply, feeling even more confident that The Abyss was the exit. Although it was a forbidden area, he had to take the risk in order to get back and only after he obtained the advanced stage three technique.

The stage three technique must be within the doors of Netherworld Sect. There were three ways to get it. The first method was very straightforward robbing.

With his strength, not even a thousand men from the Netherworld Sect were his opponent. In spite of that, it was ethically wrong to rob so brazenly.

The second method was stealing. Although it was also ethically wrong, it was slightly better than robbing.

Last but not least was trading. He had the techniques for the first and second transformations. They would probably agree if he traded one of them with them.

Sebastian was a man of his word. He asked Abigail to get him a brush and paper and wrote dozens of herbs in one shot.

These were the herbs needed to produce the Ultimate Nourishing Pill. This pill could strengthen the body and increase the cultivation. In the meantime, it could also heal injuries.

As the largest commerce

association in the county, the Holton Chamber of Commerce had all sorts of herbs. Some herbs had a different name as the ones in the surface world but

dese after Sebas

Abigail

knew which ones he meant.

belongs to s

After the herbs were prepared, he started making the pill right away. The chamber

of commerce had a place dedicated to making pills, and there was also a mini

Spirit Gathering Formation.

Beneath the cauldron was magma,

which could save a lot of energy

during the refining process. In addition, Sebastian's cultivation had greatly increased, so it didn't the him at af to refine the Ultimate

Nourishing Pill. s

In less than half an hour, it was ready. Hendrick was stunned when Sebastian presented the pills to him.

"Goodness, this is a second-grade medication. I didn't expect that you're a second-grade alchemist, Mr. Wilder. It's an honor to meet you." Hendrick politely bowed down low toward him, full of respect.

The way Abigail looked at Sebastian took a change as well, her eyes filled with admiration. There was even an odd light in her eyes, and her face blushed unwittingly.

"Are second-grade alchemists amazing?" Sebastian asked, puzzled.

As there were only a handful of alchemists in Coreland, he never found out his alchemy level.

Hendrick replied, "Of course, they are. It's incredibly rare to find an alchemist, and every one of them are very noble.

"All bigger sects and families are spending a lot of money to recruit them, and they enjoy generous benefits if they work for the royalties.

"Furthermore, second-grade alchemists are even harder to find. The head alchemist of Netherworld Sect is their fourth great-elder, Bertha Erikson. She's a second-grade alchemist."

"There's only one third-grade alchemist in Starfire Empire, and he's the imperial chaplain. His status is high, and even the king has to respect him," Abigail added.Chapter 648

Now that Sebastian already knew where the advanced stage three technique was and the way back home, he planned to return home and explain everything to Fressia.

Before he even reached the door, he already sensed something amiss. The door was missing, and pieces of wood were scattered around.

His instinct told him that there was trouble, so he bolted over as fast as he could.

Upon entering the yard, he saw blood on the ground, and the unease in his heart amplified.

"Jenna! Fressia!" he shouted while dashing into the house.

One of the rooms was a complete mess, and there were also bloodstains. There was even a large hole on the roof.

"Jenna! Freesia!" He dashed back to the yard and continued shouting their names, but nobody answered.

Hence, he utilized his spiritual senses. The next second, he turned to the haystacks nearby and was over there in a flash. Parting aside a bunch of dry weed, he found Jenna.

Her face was covered in blood, and her breathing was barely noticeable. She already slipped into a deep coma, and her life was hanging on a thread.

Hurriedly, Sebastian pressed his palm against her and injected his spiritual energy into her to treat her injuries.

His spiritual energy had strong healing effects. In seconds, Jenna's breathing gradually stabilized, and she slowly opened her eyes.

"You're back, Sebastian." Jenna's voice was very weak, but her expression took a great change the next second. "Sebastian, run! The men from Knott Estate want to kill you!"

"Don't worry, Jenna. They can't do anything to me. Tell me what happened. Where's Fressia?" Sebastian implored anxiously.

Although he and Fressia were from different camps and were even enemies, they were husband and wife before she recovered her memories, and they have feelings for each other.

"I don't know where she is, either." Jenna briefly told him what happened.

The men dragged Fressia into the room with indecent intentions, but Jenna had

no idea what happened later. There was a fight, and then, she heard a loud bang.

Jenna was in the yard and only heard someone saying, "After her!"

Afterward, everything was quiet.

Later, she crawled into the house, dragging her exhausted body, but there was nobody inside. All she saw was a hole on the roof Worried that the men from the Knott Estate would return, she hid between the haystacks and passed out unwittingly. s

"Martin and Heather Knott, I'll make sure you die a horrible death!" Sebastian clenched his fists, his eyes gleaming coldChapter 649

"Don't cry, and rest assured, Jenna. I won't strike unless I'm confident, but I can promise you that I'll bring Fressia home," Sebastian assured.

Time was crucial in saving a life, not to mention that Fressia was gorgeous. In the hands of those inhumane men, it wasn't hard to imagine the torture she'd have to go through in their hands.

Therefore, she must be saved as quickly as possible. Any minute later meant that she would suffer more.

For now, Jenna's condition was stabilized. Unfortunately, her legs were broken. Even after Sebastian had given her an Ultimate Nourishing Pill, she'd still need a few days to recover.

Sebastian was ready to return Jenna to the room and then save Fressia when he heard sounds of hooves from outside the door. He looked outside and saw dust rolling as a group of stocky bandits headed toward his house on galloping horses while carrying weapons in their hands.

The chief was a tall and burly skinhead. With a chubby face and eyes as big as golf balls, he looked ferocious and intimidating.

At the sight of them, Jenna's face fell. "Oh, no! They're the bandits from Mount Blitzen, and their chief is Brork Gantz. Run, Sebastian!"

In this world, many bandits claimed mountainous areas to be the chiefs, and Mount Blitzen was the closest bandit lair to this village.

To the kind and innocent villagers, bandits were more terrifying than the nobles. Although the nobles would also intimidate them and even steal the virginities of brides, they would usually return the women to their families after they were done with them.

However, bandits were different because they often murdered and plundered. It was common for them to violate young women and abduct the pretty ones to be their wives. Once they were bored of them, they would kill them.

Due to this, bandits were akin to devils in the villagers' eyes, and the fear they held for bandits was deeply instilled.

Undoubtedly, Sebastian wasn't afraid of the bandits, and he waited for their arrival silently.

Their house was not located at the entrance of the village, but the bandits headed straight for them and entered their yard.

"I heard that there's a beautiful bride in this house. Bring her out here and show me," Brork directly announced the reason that he had gone there.

Although Fressia had only been there for a short time, everyone who saw her would be stunned, and her beauty was already known far and wide.

After hearing news of her, Brork had brought his men here to bring her back for their own enjoyment.

Anxiously, Jenna fell to her knees. "Mr. Gantz, the men from Knott Estate have abducted my goddaughter-in-law."

"You're lying! Search the house!" Brork wouldn't be taken in so easily. Upon his order, the bandits behind him hopped off their horses and headed for the house. s

"Stop right there!" Sebastian bellowed out of the blue, and everyone froze.

"Don't be rude, Sebastian. Apologize to Mr. Gantz now!" Jenna berated sternly Then, she flashed Brork a smile, "Mr Cantz hChapter 650

"Get on my knees for him? He doesn't deserve it. Get up, Jenna. There's no need to be afraid of them," Sebastian said.

The bandits were enraged, charging at him ferociously. Some even raised their swords, ready to cut him to pieces.

Jenna couldn't bear to watch and could already imagine Sebastian's terrible death.

On the other hand, Sebastian didn't move a muscle or dodge. Brork simply thought that he was too frightened to move and sniggered.

The next second, swords landed on Sebastian, but there was no bloody scene.

Everyone merely heard a loud boom as a terrifying energy erupted from Sebastian's body. In an instant, the terrifying energy shattered the swords, and the bandits were thrown off, spewing out blood and dying before even hitting the ground.

"What?" After seeing this scene, Brork was flabbergasted, his eyes filled with shock and disbelief.

The men he had brought with him were the elites amongst his henchmen, and they were all warriors, including the second-in-command of the bandits, who was a pinnacle warrior.

Sebastian had killed all of his men solely by releasing his energy. This was a fearsome strength, and Brork reckoned that not even a grandmaster might be capable of it.

"You're a grandmaster!" Brork's face was full of shock. "Why is there a grandmaster in a small village?"

Sebastian raised his head at him and said indifferently, "You've successfully enraged me, and the price to pay is death."

"What arrogance!" Brork snorted. "So what if you're a grandmaster? I've been the king at Mount Blitzen for more than two decades. The Knott Estate has tried to take me down many times but to no avail. Why do you think I could achieve this?"

Suddenly, he jumped and gave Sebastian a palm through the air.

A huge wave of energy blasted toward Sebastian, who was unfazed and composed. With a wave of his hand, an even greater energy erupted from him.

Along with another loud bang, Brork's attack was repelled, and the remaining force struck him without stopping.

As though struck by lightning, Brork was blasted away by the energy and threw up blood, his eyes filled with shock.

There was a thud as Brork landed heavily on the ground after he was blasted off more than 30 feet away. The impact was so strong that it created a concave in the ground.

Sebastian's eyes were impassive, and with a flash, he was right in front of Brork. Quick and silent, he moved like a ghost.

Brork almost wet his pants as he begged for his life on his knees in panic. "Please spare me. I was wrong. Please let me off."

"Bandits have done all kinds of evil, violating women, plundering, and many other heinous deeds. You deserve death, and I'll rid the people of such a wicked many today Sebastian said. s

Right before he struck, Brork said anxiously, "Please hold on and listen to me, sir. Although I'm a bandit and have done many wrong, I usually plunder and rarely kill.

"Furthermore, I rob the rich and hardly harass the villagers. Please let me off. I promise I'll never do it again."

"I'm missing a henchman now. Are you able to obey me unconditionally?" Sebastian asked.

"Y-Yes, master!" Brork didn't dare to disobey. He had succumbed to Sebastian's strength and had no thoughts of defying him.

Meanwhile, Jenna was utterly flabbergasted by the scene before her eyes. She knew that Sebastian was strong because he coChapter 651

"You can refuse, but I'll kill you right now," Sebastian said coldly.

"I'll go! I'll go, okay?" Brork almost cried. Not going meant death, but going also meant death. It was just supposed to be a simple mission, so how did things get so unlucky for him?

The two of them rode their horses at full speed and soon entered Holton, heading straight for the Knott Estate. Upon arriving at the entrance, they dismounted and barged right in.

"Hold it!" the guards immediately shouted harshly.

Sebastian acted as if he hadn't heard them and continued walking straight ahead.

"How dare you trespass on Knott Estate? You're courting death!"

Enraged, the guards drew their swords and slashed at Sebastian.

Sebastian ignored them, leaving Brork no choice but to intervene and send the guards flying.

The fallen guards were both shocked and furious, and they quickly called for help. Hearing the commotion, more people from the Knott Estate rushed out.

"Sebastian Wilder!"

Many recognized him immediately since Heather had been seen showing him around Knott Estate not long ago.

However, they were also aware that Sebastian had fallen out with their young lady, so they angrily shouted, "How dare you barge into Knott Estate?"

"Tell Martin to get out here!" Sebastian shouted fiercely.

"How dare you disrespect the city lord! You're asking for it! Seize him and bring him to Mr. Knott for punishment!"

The leader of the guards commanded, and a group of them charged at Sebastian. Sebastian stood still, making no move to fight back.

Brork was internally groaning. He knew all too well that if he didn't act, Sebastian wouldn't hesitate to kill him. So, he reluctantly braced himself and joined the fray.

He was a grandmaster. Even though he was injured, he was more than capable of handling these guards. Each strike sent several flying, and not a single one could get close t Sebastian s

The leader was furious. "You're Brork Grant, chief of the bandits from Mount Blitzen, aren't you?

"How dare you cause trouble at the Knott Estate! You've got some nerve! Guards, kill him!"

The Knott Estate guards were ranked by level. The ordinary guards weren't even considered warriors; only the squad leaders had that status.

In addition, there were silver-armored guards, all of whom were warriors, with the squad leaders being mid to advanced-level warriors among them.

At the leader's order, a group of silver-armored guards charged at Brork. But a grandmaster was still a grandmaster, even wounded, he was not someone regular warriors could match. s

They quickly fell one after another.

"You're courting death!"

The leader was enraged. He suddenly leaped into the air and struck down at Brork with his palm.

Brork was caught off guard and hurriedly raised a fist to block the attack. A resounding bang followed, and he spat out a mouthful of blood as he was sent flying.

It was clear that the leader was also a grandmaster. He then approached Sebastian with an air of arrogance.

"So, you managed to get Brork on your side. That's impressive, but if you think you can storm the Knott Estate by relying on him, you're far too naive."

"Rely on him?"

Sebastian smirked. "I have never relied on anyone but myself. Brork is merely my slave."Chapter 652

Heather had just joined Netherworld Sect and was still a newcomer. Nevertheless, she often wasn't present at the sect, which somewhat surprised Sebastian.

What he didn't know was that Heather joined the sect mainly to have Bertha help treat her illness. As for cultivation, she didn't really need to rely on the sect because she had a family-legacy technique that was nearly as good as what the Netherworld Sect offered.

Moreover, she had been practicing it since childhood, so switching to a new technique would be more trouble than it was worth.

Heather stormed over, brimming with fury. "Sebastian, you've got some nerve! How dare you trespass into Knott Estate and show disrespect to my father! Today, I'll personally chop your head off!"

When Sebastian saw Heather, his eyes flashed with a hint of anger.

Heather had drugged him. While he was unconscious, she had used evil methods to extract his spiritual energy, blood essence, and even bone marrow, all before throwing him off a cliff.

If not for his strong cultivation and resilient body, he would have died. He had not forgotten this grudge.

He hadn't immediately sought revenge on Martin and Heather because he was still searching for the third stage of his technique and a way home, so he endured it for the time being.

But to his shock, this father-daughter duo had crossed the line by targeting Jenna and Fressia. They had simply pushed him beyond his limits.

"Heather, it was one thing for you to harm me, but why go after Jenna and my wife? They're just ordinary people," Sebastian demanded sharply.

Heather sneered. "They're just two lowly commoners. I was already merciful enough to not kill them."

At that moment, Martin also walked out. "Heather's right. Sebastian, I'm surprised you're still alive after everything, and you don't even look injured.

"If I were you, I'd have found a place to hide long ago, but here you are, handing yourself over."

Sean and others followed behind Martin. He turned to Heather and said, "Heather, there's no need for you to dirty your hands. Just stand aside and watch-I'll kill him myself."

"Fine, but don't let him die too easily. I won't be satisfied unless he suffers," Heather said coldly.

"Don't worry. I promise he'll enjoy every bit of it!" Sean assured with a cruel grin. He then looked at Sebastian and said, "If you kneel down and beg for mercy now, maybe I'll let you keep your corpse in one piece, you brat."

"The ones who should die are you

people! Release my wife

immediately, or I'll slaughter

everyone in knott Estate!"

wel

sebastian's voice was filled with

murderous intent. 's

Heather scoffed. "You're really delusional. A mere ant like you talking about wiping

out Knott Estate-you don't know your place!"

Martin sneered wickedly. "So, you're here for your wife, huh? Too bad you're too late; we already played her to death."

"What did you say? She's dead?" Sebastian was stunned. If Fressia hadn't lost her memory and married him, her fate would have been irrelevant to him. He might have even celebrated her death s

But now, it was difficult for him to accept that she was gone.

Martin smirked triumphantly. "That's right. I have to admit, your wife was really beautiful. She was such a joy to play with. We took turns, dozens of us, one after another, untilshe died from the sheer pleasure of it." s

shea

"You're asking for it!" Sebastian could no longer suppress the fury within him, and

a terrifying killing intent erupted from his body.

In an instant, everyone present felt a chill of fear, and even Martin was taken aback.

At that moment, Sebastian suddenly moved, grabbiChapter 653

Sebastian acted as if he hadn't heard anything and broke Sean's other leg with another kick.

Sean was in so much pain that tears were streaming down his face. "Please, spare me! I was lying earlier! Your wife isn't dead, and we didn't hurt her."

"Then, where is she? Let her go immediately!" Sebastian demanded, his voice dripping with murderous intent.

Martin quickly added, "I don't know where she is! We never captured her in the first place."

"You're still lying to me!" Sebastian snarled as he crushed Sean's shoulder blade.

Sean almost passed out from the pain. "I'm not lying, I swear! We planned to do something to her, but she suddenly went wild! She broke through the roof, and escaped. We chased her for a long time but couldn't catch her.

"I'm telling the truth, please, spare me."

Sebastian let out a sigh of relief, trusting Sean's words. Fressia's memory loss hadn't affected her abilities; it was entirely possible she escaped through the roof when in danger.

Heather shouted angrily, "Sebastian, I advise you to release my cousin immediately, or I'll have you cut into a thousand pieces, leaving you without a complete corpse!"

Sebastian ignored Heather and looked at Sean. "Even if you didn't hurt my wife, you still harbored evil intentions toward her. Not to mention, you nearly killed my godmother.

"You deserve to die!"

With that, Sebastian snapped Sean's neck with a loud crack.

"Sean!" Martin rushed forward to check, but Sean was already lifeless.

"He actually killed Mr. Sean! The nerve of him!"

Everyone at Knott Estate was filled with rage, and Heather's murderous aura surged as well. "How dare you kill my cousin? I'll have you torn to shreds!"

Heather immediately advanced toward Sebastian, unleashing a terrifying aura. "She's a pinnacle warrior!"

"Ms. Knott is truly remarkable! As expected of Holton's number one

prodigy. She's reached the pinnacle Warrior level at just

She now has

a real chance of becoming

20

grandmaster before she turns 18." s

"That's right. Her talent is unparalleled, rivaling even that of Ms. Kaitlyn from the Netherworld Sect Her future achievements are limitless!" s

Everyone was full of admiration, their eyes brimming with fervent worship.

"Die!" Heather shouted, clenching her fist as she prepared to strike Sebastian. Just then, a commanding voice rang out from a distance.

"Hold it!"

The voice wasn't particularly loud, but it carried an undeniable authority that shook everyone to their core. Heather feft a jolt of fear and instinctively halted. fo s

They all turned toward the source of the voice and saw a middle-aged man

striding forward, accompanied by a young girl.

"It's Mr. Watson!" someone exclaimed.

The man was none other than the chairman of Holton Chamber of Commerce. He was accompanied by his daughter, Abigail.

"Mr. Watson, what brings you to Knott Estate?" MartChapter 654

Hendrick knew that Sebastian was no ordinary person. Since Sebastian wanted to handle things himself, it was clear he had confidence in himself, so Mr. Watson stepped aside with a sense of relief.

However, he remained ready to intervene at any moment. Sebastian had given him a new lease on life, and he was determined not to let anyone harm him.

Heather stared at Sebastian coldly and said, "I don't know why Mr. Watson is protecting you, but anyone who goes against Knott Estate is as good as dead!"

As she spoke, she unleashed her aura again, making the guards around her feel incredibly oppressed.

Heather smirked smugly. "Do you see this? This is my power. It won't be long before I become a grandmaster. In my eyes, you're nothing more than an insect. If you kneel and apologize now, I might consider leaving your corpse intact."

Sebastian responded with a mocking smile, "Even grandmasters are nothing more than ants to me. You don't even qualify as one, yet you dare spout nonsense in front of me? How laughable."

"You're asking for it!" Heather shouted furiously. She raised her hand and struck Sebastian with a powerful blow.

Sebastian merely stood there, not moving an inch, appearing as though he was paralyzed with fear.

Hendrick was startled by this and was about to step in to save him when he noticed something strange.

Heather's palm had already connected with Sebastian's chest, but he remained completely unaffected, as if nothing had happened.

On the other hand, Heather's expression changed drastically as she was filled with shock and disbelief.

Sebastian showed her a disdainful smile and then extended his hand, pressing it in her direction from a distance.

An invisible force immediately bore down on Heather. She had no strength to resist and collapsed to her knees with a loud thud while her eyes filled with terror. "What?"

Everyone present was stunned. Heather was a pinnacle warrior, yet after hitting Sebastian with a palm strike, he remained completely unharmed.

With just a distant press of his hand, he had forced her to her knees. This kind of power was just too terrifying.

Heather struggled to stand, but the invisible force was too overwhelming, rendering her unable to move.

"This can't be! How is your strength so formidable?"

"It's not that my strength is formidable; it's that yours is too weak," Sebastian replied, delivering a slap to Heather's face.

A loud smack echoed as Heather was sent flying nearly 20 feet away.

"How dare you hurt my daughter? I will make sure you die without a burial!" Martin

roared in fury as he charged toward Sebastian.

"The city lord himself is stepping in!

This kid is done for," the Knott Estate people exclaimed excitedly, as seeing a divine grandmaster take action was a rare sight. s

Sebastian smirked with disdain, ready to retaliate when Hendrick suddenly stepped in, positioning himself in front of Sebastian.Chapter 655

Although he was a grandmaster, Brork was nothing more than an ant in the face of a divine grandmaster like Martin.

Since he had come with Sebastian, he knew that once Martin killed Sebastian, he wouldn't be spared either.

Brork desperately wanted to flee, but Knott Estate's guards surrounded him on all sides.

"You can go ahead and try!" Hendrick stepped forward, releasing a similarly terrifying aura, one that matched Martin's intensity.

"He's a divine grandmaster! Mr. Watson is also a divine grandmaster!"

Everyone was astonished. Divine grandmasters were the most formidable beings

in the world, capable of single-handedly opposing entire armies.

However, such powerful individuals were exceedingly rare.

In all of Holton, excluding the Netherworld Sect, Martin had been the only divine grandmaster.

Now that Hendrick had also ascended to the Divine Realm, it was no wonder everyone was so shocked.

"You actually broke through to the Divine Realm!" Martin exclaimed, clearly surprised.

Hendrick smiled and said, "Indeed, not only did I fully recover from my injuries, but I also broke through the bottleneck and entered the Divine Realm. Do you still think I can't protect Mr. Wilder now?"

Martin's expression turned cold. "Mr. Watson, even though you've entered the Divine Realm, you've only just broken through. You're no match for me, so I suggest you think it over carefully."

Hendrick snorted. "There's nothing to consider. I won't allow anyone to harm Mr. Wilder."

"Then, you've brought this upon yourself. Don't blame me for being ruthless," Martin growled before launching a punch at Hendrick.

Hendrick quickly countered with a punch of his own.

A deafening explosion echoed as a terrifying force erupted from the clash of their fists. The shockwave hit those nearby, stinging their faces and sending them scrambling back in fear and astonishment. s

At the same time, Hendrick was forced back a few steps by the powerful energy, while Martin only wavered slightly, clearly demonstrating who was stronger.

This outcome was inevitable, given that Martin had entered the Divine Realm long ago, while Hendrick had just recently broken through. It certainly left a significant gap, between them. s

Vol

Martin snorted and pressed his advantage, throwing punch after punch, leaving Hendrick with no chance to counter. Martin then. seized an opportunity and struck Hendrick squarely in the chest, sending him flying with a terrifying force. s

Hendrick immediately spat out a mouthful of blood mid-air.

"Father!" Abigail cried out in shock, rushing forward to support him.

Martin smirked with satisfaction. "I told you before that you're no match for me, but you wouldn't listen!"

Hendrick wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and said coldly, "Even if I'm not your match, if you insist on killing Mr. Wilder, I will fight to the death!"

"Mr. Watson, sacrificing yourself is pointless. I won't stop you if you leave right now, but that kid is doomed." Martin sneered, then turned to Sebastian.

"Brat, now I see why you dared to make trouble at KChapter 656

Upon hearing this, Martin smirked mockingly. "I really don't know where you get your confidence from, brat. You're at death's door, yet you still talk tough!"

Heather approached, her eyes filled with fury as she glared at Sebastian.

She spat venomously, "No one has ever laid a hand on me since I was a child. You're the first. I will make you wish for death over life! As for your wife and godmother, I'll ensure that they suffer fates worse than death too!"

The moment she finished speaking, a terrifying killing intent erupted from Sebastian, causing the surrounding temperature to plummet. Everyone present felt a chill of fear run down their spines.

Almost instantly, Sebastian moved aside.

His figure blurred like a ghost. In the blink of an eye, he was in front of Heather, gripping her neck tightly.

Heather's face instantly turned pale with fright; she never expected Sebastian's strength to be so terrifying. What confused her even more was that she had cast a forbidden technique on Sebastian, which should have killed him, but he remained completely unscathed.

"Let go of Heather, or I'll ensure you die a brutal death!" Martin shouted, both shocked and furious. He was startled by Sebastian's power, especially his incredible speed.

Still, he remained confident that he could easily subdue Sebastian. After all, no matter how talented Sebastian was, he was still young-his strength couldn't possibly be that formidable.

Sebastian could be a grandmaster at most. As a divine grandmaster himself, that was merely a slightly stronger ant.

Sebastian's eyes gleamed with a cold light as he stared at Heather and said icily, "You have some nerve, Heather, threatening me with my wife and godmother!"

As she was both frightened and enraged, Heather tried to maintain her composure as she said, "Let me go now, or my father will tear you to pieces!"

"Your father is nothing but an ant in my eyes! He's not even worth fearing!" Sebastian scoffed.

"Damn, this guy is way too arrogant! He actually dared to call Mr. Knott an ant. He has no idea what he's up against!"

"Exactly! The divine grandmaster is one of the most powerful beingsan existence, and he dares to call a divine grandmaster an ant? What a joke! Knott Estate's people sneered, mocking Sebastian. s

Even Hendrick and Abigail thought Sebastian was being too arrogant. It was fine

to boast, but there needed to be a limit; otherwise, it would just make him a laughingstock.

Martin laughed angrily, "You brat, if you think I'm just an ant, then let Heather go and face me in a duel. Let's see what you're really made of."

"As you wish!" Sebastian responded. He continued to grab Heather by the neck

and throw her over 30 feet away. She landed heavily on the ground, coughing up a mouthful of blood.

Heather was furious, nearly

exploding with rage. She struggled to her feet and shouted, "Father, don't just kill him outright! I want to torture him slowly for days. Only then will be satisfied!" s

Martin glared at Sebastian and said coldly, "You heard Heather. I'll first cripple your cultivation, then break your limbs. After that, Heather can take her time tormenting you to death!" s

Sebastian stood with his hands behind his back, his face full of disdain. "You're just an ant, yet you dare to boast in front of me. How ridiculous."

"Then, I'll show you the strength of this ant!" Martin roared, charging at Sebastian with incredible speed.Chapter 657

Martin was shocked and horrified. It felt as though his punch had struck an indestructible metal, making his fist go numb. He tried to retreat upon realizing something was terribly wrong,, but it was already too late.

Suddenly, a terrifying surge of energy erupted from Sebastian. With a deafening sound, the energy blasted Martin away.

He immediately spewed a mouthful of blood mid-air as his eyes filled with disbelief and fear.

What!

Everyone was stunned, unable to believe what they were seeing.

Martin was a divine grandmaster; he had punched Sebastian, but Sebastian was unharmed and instead sent Martin flying. The sheer strength was just astounding.

"What incredible power! I knew Mr. Wilder was a genius at pill refinement, but I never imagined his combat prowess would be so profound!" Hendrick exclaimed in awe.

Abigail was in awe, and her eyes sparkled as she watched, momentarily entranced.

Heather, however, was paralyzed with fear. She never expected that her father, whom she had believed to be nearly invincible, would be so easily overpowered by Sebastian. His strength terrified her.

"This can't be happening! How is it possible? You're so young, how can your strength be this overwhelming?" Martin gasped, struggling to comprehend the situation. His eyes were filled with terror as he stared at Sebastian. "Who the hell are you?"

Sebastian sneered. "Who I am is of no consequence to you. All you need to know is that you are nothing but ants in my eyes, something easily crushed at my whim!"

If he had said this earlier, everyone would have thought he was boasting. But now, not a single person doubted his words.

Martin, the divine grandmaster, couldn't even withstand a single move from Sebastian. To the rest of them, they weren't even worthy of being called cannon fodder.

Sebastian then turned his gaze toward Heather, who instantly paled. Terror was evident on her face.

"Sebastian, what are you planning to do?" Heather stammered, trying to sound defiant. "I'm warning you. I'm an apprentice of the Netherworld Sect. My mentor is Bertha Erikson! If you dare to touch me, she will hunt you down and kill you!"

Sebastian sneered at her words. With a flick of his wrist, Heather was unable to resist and was suddenly pulled toward him.

Everyone present was stunned. They knew that a divine grandmaster could manipulate objects from a distance, but usually no further than 10 feet and not with heavy objects. However,

Heather was over 15 feet away, and Sebastian still managed to pull her toward him effortlessly. This display of power was far beyond their comprehension.

Sebastian grabbed Heather by the neck once more.

"What are you doing, Sebastian?" Heather asked, both angry and terrified. Her eyes betrayed her fear.

With a loud smack, Sebastian slapped her hard across the face and sneered. "What can you do now that I've laid a hand on you?"

Heather was both furious and panicked. "My mentor will never let you get away with this!" she yelled.

Sebastian gave a mocking smile. "I thought you had some brains, but it seems that you're incredibly foolish."

"What do you mean by that?" Heather asked while bristling with anger. Sebastian's cold laugh echoed. "Even now, you don't understand what kind of being you've provoked. You keep threatening me with your mentor-how stupid can you be?

"Let me make it clear for you. Even if your mentor Bertha were here, she wouldn't be able to save you because, in my eyes, she's nothing more than an ant."

"You're delusional! My mentor is one of the Grand Elders of the Netherworld Sect! She has unfathomable power andChapter 658

Heather had pleaded for help from her mentor, Bertha, while Sebastian stood there waiting.

He already knew by now that Fressia hadn't been captured. With her level of skill, ordinary people wouldn't pose a threat to her even with her memory loss. So now he had no reason to worry about anything.

Today, he was determined to make this father-daughter duo taste despair, bit by bit.

Hendrick approached Sebastian and whispered, "Mr. Wilder, the Netherworld Sect is full of experts. They have five divine grandmasters, and Tyler's power is beyond comprehension. Are you confident you can handle them?"

"They're just ants," Sebastian replied dismissively.

"Just don't underestimate them, Mr. Wilder," Hendrick cautioned.

Sebastian remained unfazed. It wasn't arrogance but confidence, confidence rooted in his strength.

The Netherworld Sect wasn't far from Knott Estate. With the speed of carrier pigeons and their giant birds that people could ride, they should have arrived within an hour.

Yet, two hours had passed, and still no sign of them.

"It seems your mentor won't be coming," Sebastian remarked.

Fear filled Heather's eyes. "Sebastian, you can't kill me. I'm the Netherworld Sect's once-in-a-millennium genius apprentice. If you kill me, the Sect will never let you go."

Sebastian responded calmly, "If I were afraid, I wouldn't have let you call for help, nor would I be standing here waiting.

"If the Netherworld Sect doesn't come after me, fine. But if they do, I'll just wipe them out."

He spoke of destroying a powerful sect as casually as if he were talking about slaughtering a chicken.

Everyone around was stunned-what kind of confidence was this? How strong did one have to be to have such unwavering self-assurance?

If they had heard him before, they would have dismissed it as bluster, and not even credible bluster at that.

However, they had just witnessed him severely injured Martin in a single move-it was terrifying.

"Heather, do you have any last words before you die?" Sebastian asked.

Heather was trembling so much that her legs gave out. She fell to her knees before Sebastian. "Sebastian, please don't kill me. For the sake of the one night we shared as husband and wife, spare my life. I'm still so young. I don't want to

die."

Sebastian let out a cold chuckle. "You still dare to mention our one night together? You drugged me, used wicked means to steal my energe essence, and marrow and then tossed me off a cliff ff thadn't been lucky, I wouldn't be standing here now." s

Heather pleaded, "I'm just still too young and made a terrible mistake in a moment of weakness. I truly know I was wrong now. Please give me a chance to change. I'll devote myself to you and serve you well as your woman." s

Sebastian sneered. "You should've gone into acting with those skills. Let's set the fact that you harmed me aside for now.

"You also sent people after my godmother, had her beaten severely, and even tried to humiliate my wife. Such malice-how could I ever forgive you?"

"That wasn't my doing! It was Sean acting on his own!

"He was driven by lust. It had nothing to do with me," Heather quickly tried to distance herself from the blame.

Martin chimed in, "She's right, I can vouch for her. When it all happened, Heather was at the Netherworld Sect. She didn't know anything about it."

"Sean deserved to die, but I don't believe he acted alone. If it wasn't her, then it must've been you." Sebastian turned his gaze te Martin, his eyes full of killing

intent.

belongs to s

Feeling a wave of fear, Martin quickly denied, "It wasn't me! I had nothing to do with it."

"Hmph!" Sebastian scoffed. "Well, it's definitely either one of you. So, you can choose who will die."

"Are you trying to turn us against each other? How vicious!" Martin shouted angrily.

The onlookers silently agreed, thinking that forcing them to choose would be more

cruel than simply killing them both.

After all, the survivor would live with the guilt forever.

"Enough talk. I'm giving you one minute to decide. IfChapter 659

"Father." Heather's eyes were full of fear and helplessness.

Martin was at a loss for words. He didn't want to die, but he also couldn't bear to lose his daughter.

"Sebastian, maybe we can negotiate. Let us go, and just name your price- anything you want."

Sebastian thought for a moment and said, "Alright. I'll give you a chance. I want one million gold coins!"

"What? One million gold coins? Why don't you just rob a bank?" Martin nearly jumped up in anger.

Just ten thousand gold coins were enough for someone to live comfortably for a lifetime. One million gold coins was a huge sum even for him.

Sebastian sneered. "If you're unwilling to pay one million, that's fine. I can just kill your daughter, and you won't have to pay for anything."

"Fine. I'll pay!" Martin gritted his teeth, feeling as if his heart was bleeding.

Due to the large amount of gold, Sebastian only asked for gold notes.

Not long after, Martin handed Sebastian ten notes, each worth 100 thousand gold coins.

Sebastian kept his word and left after receiving the notes.

He hadn't intended to kill Martin and Heather-not because he was merciful, but because he wanted to take his time to destroy them.

After leaving Knott Estate, Sebastian followed Hendrick to the Holton Chamber of Commerce.

"Mr. Watson, I'd like to ask you for a favor," Sebastian said.

Hendrick quickly replied, "Mr. Wilder, there's no need to be so formal. Just tell me what you need."

Hendrick's respect for Sebastian had grown even deeper. Sebastian not only healed his wounds, which saved his life, but also helped him break through his cultivation bottleneck.

It was a debt that Hendrick considered a second chance at life.

Moreover, Sebastian was at least a second grade alchemist, with immeasurable strength to boot. Such a person was worth cultivating a good relationship with.

"I need your help to find someone." Sebastian requested paper and a pen, then drew an image of Fressia.

Although Sebastian wasn't a professional artist, his drawing was remarkably lifelike.

"Mr. Wilder, is the woman in the picture your wife?" Abigail asked.

"Yes," Sebastian nodded.

A trace of disappointment flashed in Abigail's eyes. It was hard not to admire a man as exceptional as Sebastian.

Abigail had always been confident in herself, but after seeing the portrait, her confidence wavered-the

woman in the drawing g

easily matching her own beauty. s

Sebastian then explained the circumstances and timing of Fressia's disappearance.

"Don't worry, Mr. Wilder. I'll send people to find her immediately. I'm sure we'll have news soon," Hendrick assured him with conviction.

Then, Sebastian stayed at the chamber, waiting for updates. He also asked

Hendrick to arrange for some people to take care of Jenna.

Additionally, he assigned Brork to protect her in secret.

Having witnessed Sebastian's terrifying power first hand, Brork didn't dare to utter

a single word of refusal. He was completely subdued, with no thoughts of escaping.

Meanwhile, at Knott Estate.

"Father, I just can't swallow this humiliation!" HeatheChapter 660

Martin looked at Heather and asked, "Are you willing to marry the Stonebrook's heir?"

Heather replied without hesitation, "Mr. Camden is an outstanding man. Of course I'm willing."

"Alright then. We'll settle this marriage today and then ask the Stonebrook family to deal with that little bastard!" Martin said coldly.

The father and daughter then stepped out to greet their guests.

Meanwhile, the Stonebrook family had arrived in large numbers, bringing an abundance of betrothal gifts.

Leading them was a dignified middle-aged man, Denzel Stonebrook, the head of the Stonebrook family and one of the top powerhouses of the southern region.

Beside him was a young man of about 26 years old. Though his appearance was average, he had an impressive presence; this was Camden Stonebrook, the heir to the Stonebrook family.

"Mr. Denzel, Mr. Camden, your arrival truly graces our humble Knott Estate," Martin said with a flattering smile.

Denzel smiled slightly and said, "Mr. Knott, you're too kind. Please forgive our unannounced visit."

"No need for that; it's our honor. Please, come in." Martin led the father and son into the sitting room and had them seated.

Denzel got straight to the point, saying, "I've long heard that your daughter is as beautiful as a goddess, and today I see the reputation is well-deserved."

"Thank you for the compliment, Mr. Stonebrook." Heather appeared slightly shy. But the more reserved she acted, the more captivated Camden became; his eyes never left her, like they were practically glued to her every move.

Denzel quickly reprimanded, "Camden, it's impolite to keep staring at Ms. Knott. Apologize immediately."

Camden snapped out of his daze and quickly stood up, saying, "I'm sorry, Ms. Knott, I was being rude."

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

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

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

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

Denzel smiled a

and said, "My son saw

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?"

very satisfied. Extremely satisfied, actually,"

that mean you agree

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

future title of daughter-in-law of the Stonebrook

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

someone whose strength is formidable and who

southern region, there aren't many people who could cause trouble for you. Who might this

scoundrel named Sebastian

commoner.

ill with a strange disease once. Despite consulting many renowned doctors, none could help me. Later, when

treat me. At the time, I was powerless and had no way to refuse. I'm telling

you mind, we can call

eyes. "I heard about this incident too,

don't mind. It wasn't your

understanding," Heather forced out

clever strategy; many people already knew about Sebastian seeing her naked. Given the

up herself, she hoped to handle the situation

But what I never expected was that the scoundrel was nothing

engaged, he demanded that I sleep

woman and naturally refused him. He then tried to force himself on me,

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

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

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

increase. There are

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

at least at the early pinnacle stage of diving grandmaster, strongerthan

real age is

"Isn't he just an early-stage

Heather and Camden's

one of the four major families of the southern region,

Holton's Knott Estate, it was still far from matching the

upon reflection, it didn't seem that odd. Although Heather's family background wasn't on par with

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

genius with boundless potential and

beauty and talent compensated for her comparatively modest

and even jealous of Heather. After all, becoming the

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

Though Heather was beautiful, her cruelty overshadowed everything else; he wouldn't want her even if she was offered

obtaining a million gold coins from Martin, Sebastian invested in

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

to boost the cultivation

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

are getting engaged tomorrow at Knott

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

"Yes, you're

intentions-it was nothing more than an attempt

asked, "Mr. Wilder, are you

wouldn't I be letting them

if you don't go. Martin and Heather both hate you to the core and their invitation is definitely not sincere it's clear

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

right into their

of petty clowns. There's nothing

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

Hendrick warned.

to .net

appreciate your concern, but those

just clowns. They're not worth worrying

me alone, fine. If they dare provoke

ie

the four major families in the southern region, even stronger than the Netherworld

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

they'll cook up something else next time even

confront them

entrance of Knott Estate, a

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

there something you need from me?" Sebastian asked.

Sebastian nodded.

you at the banquet. Going there now is like walking into a trap," Kaitlyn

tell me

to run into you and thought I'd give you

you to care so much about me. Could it be that you've fallen for

scoffed and

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

to become a peerless force in the future. Just

is made up. No more

was marching to his doom. All they could probably do

Knott Estate, the atmosphere was festive and filled with

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

of

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

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

Sebastian.

had been keeping tabs on Sebastian's

moment, "Mr. Camden, Sebastian

all the exits once he enters. Make sure he doesn't

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

satisfaction. "By the way,

likely won't make it today. But with the family's third elder and

nodded again in

moment, Sebastian and his

here?" Korbin exclaimed

the Stonebrook family's plan, yet he still showed up. Was he walking

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

lightly and said, "This place isn't exactly a

"Stop playing dumb. Since you've come

smile. "Brat, today next year will

kneel down, admit your mistakes, gouge out your own eyes, and

to congratulate you, so I'm your guest. Yet, here you are, shouting

"I invited you here just to kill you. You're no

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

Camden would never let him live. I can't tell if

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

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

you want to live today, the only

this, Sebastian laughed and his smile was

are you laughing

so many good women out

insult my woman? You've got some nerve!" Camden

lost it. This guy must be

Camden asked, he might have had a slim chance to live.

Everyone nodded in agreement.

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

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

been practicing an

cultivation technique, one that

male energy to

day,

into her

"Shut up!"

Sebastian while snapping,

added, "Mr. Camden, he's just slandering Heather on

I don't believe him. This

evidence do you

Heather wanted to absorb male energy through a sinister technique and tried to seduce me, but I wasn't interested in her at all,

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 won't

evil cultivation technique to absorb my essence and even my bone marrow. Afterward, she threw me off a cliff. If I hadn't been lucky, I wouldn't be

slander my woman right in front of me...

only telling the truth. Her first time was with me. If you don't believe me, you can have her checked. If I'm lying, you can do with me as you wish,"

up! Even if an examination proves my

"Camden, this guy has ulterior motives.

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

Whether Sebastian was telling

to verify everything as soon as the engagement banquet

as vast and overwhelming as the sea,

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

felt apprehensive. While they were also divine grandmasters,

stage, whereas Septimus was

had some sense in you, but you're a

me to shut up, but

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

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

However, Heather's reaction

her, leaving everyone stunned. Upon realizing she

tricked, Heather

lies! I swear I'll cut

fool, and he was infuriated by the Chapter

the four major families of the southern region, with all

was a middle-stage divine

his move, the pressure from his released aura alone made it hard

Abigail looked on with faces full of concern, and even Kaitlyn's eyes flashed with worry. But there was little

as lightning as his hand reached out to grasp Sebastian's neck. Just as it

sound,

out a pained scream and

swift movement, Sebastian chased him down and grabbed Septimus by

"What?"

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

was beyond

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

at most a warrior. After all, if he were a grandmaster or divine grandmaster, why would he bother

erupted in fury. "I've really underestimated you. If you release

the Stonebrook family! If

his eyes filled with murderous

"Mr. Camden, can you do me a favor? I'll have him

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

close distance, Camden found her even more enticing than he had imagined. He nodded and said, "I'll grant you this favor,

Gardner Astong asterele Monet

own eyes, and breaks both his

eyes and breaking

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

turned to Sebastian and whispered, "Didn't I warn

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

your strength was so formidable, but you still

Stonebrook

your

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

in the

hard to accept, but

to five miserably than

Kaitlyn wanted to say something, but

was a fate worse than

were slim, at least Sebastian could die

"Septimus!"

the Stonebrook family erupted

as he shouted, "Sebastian Wilder,

Septimus? I won't be satisfied until I torture

cripple his

didn't need Camden's order. He was already walking toward Sebastian, his aura

footfall left a deep imprint on the hard

cultivation must be truly

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

He struck so quickly before; this

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Camden shouted, tossing a long sword

immediately drew it from its sheath.

the blade resonated through the air,

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

the Godslayer

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

was stunned. They hadn't expected Camden to carry the Godslayer Blade with

the Godslayer Blade, not even late-stage divine grandmasters could stand against Trey Defeating Sebastian will

a renowned magical artifact, said to be a top-tier weapon that could slice through iron

Sebastian, empty-handed-what

closed her eyes, unable

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

to be Sebastian. At least Sebastian

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

had come to realize that Sebastian's strength far surpassed hers, and he didn't need

The ones trying to kill Sebastian were the

Trey wielded the Godslayer Blade. As he swung his sword, a blinding white blade aura was charged with thunderous power. It seemed as though it

few miles surged violently, creating an oppressive atmosphere that

slumped to the ground

to capture Sebastian alive, so

was about to strike, Sebastian suddenly moved, reaching out

expression filled with cruelty. To try and stop

sight of blood and mangled flesh, the sword stopped dead in its tracks

"How is this possible?"

with shock and disbelief. Everyone present was equally stunned as

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

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

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

was jolted by

"This

anger and panic, clenching his fists and throwing

actually dared

smirked. "Either kill or be killed. If you think you can kill

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

anything you can imagine. They are filled with masters of unparalleled skill. My future father-in-law is one of the top experts in the Southern Regions, so killing you would

of idiots. You two really are made for

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

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

really plan to kill us?" Heather was suddenly

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 care about will

me, I'll kill that person. If you send

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

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

on him and thought that

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

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

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

dare!"

of him. He gathered all the experts from the Stonebrook family around

at him with disdain. He took a step forward, releasing

weighed down on everyone present. Those below grandmaster

grandmasters struggled to remain

Kill him!"

family were filled with terror, they had no choice but to

join the fray. Instead, he used the chaos

wave of his hand, a tremendous energy burst forth. There was a deafening boom, and the grandmasters coughed out

grandmasters from the Stonebrook family had been wiped

of cake. The

was terrifying.

and her face

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

into the air, attempting to

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

his voice quiet yet carrying the

absolutely," Elodie blurted, nodding so hard the tight bun at

breathe. Relief spread

she offered a quick,

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

you," she murmured, sincerity softening every line of her

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

thanking

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

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

all knew each ensemble Ivy had chosen started at well over

around the card, uncertainty flickering across her eyes as

this scale required his guardian's word. Nathaniel

an entire rack of adult clothing,

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

from velvet hangers

employees watched, envy shining through their fixed

cover the down payment on

more.

everyone understanding precisely why Jonathan was buying, no one dared steal Ivy's

Ivy guided

it really is a mountain of clothes. Should we put one or two pieces back? Together they total a

over eight million." s

have taken a job at a boutique this

said, firm

no objection, she

she stared at the numbers in disbelief. The wealthy, it seemed, spent money the way others

presented the card

with matching courtesy. "Ms. Ivy, I truly

set the

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

on to whatever gentleman keeps you

head sent her ponytail swishing across her shoulders. "Oh, no, I can't, really

apairof

Jon today. Compared with that, a jacket is nothing.

the bill, Jonathan had delivered a

loaded with crisp shirts,

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

“Oh. Ms. Kennedy wanted me to pop in and pick out a few outfits

privacy of his own mind. Dad hardly knows Ms. Kennedy, and Mom's best

Ms.

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

mood darkened like a sky before

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

believed the first fib, it was

more like an adult compared to

never delegate adult shopping to a

figured something

Jonathan blinked, performing innocent

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

hadn't expected to be exposed so fast, and the realization sent a

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

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

That proves she doesn't value you," Jon announced, brutally direct in the way only children

opened, then snapped shut.Am I showing

throat. “And exactly where did you

Jon

even a child

grew uneasy when the restroom door stayed shut far too

hard, she went searching

belongs to s

in the corridor, she almost

behind them, arms loaded with shopping bags

two been? And what

forward, intent on inspecting the loot, but Nathaniel spoke

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

so Nathaniel was patching the

nice. I was starting to wonder why

utterly bewildered. When have I ever been

cleared his throat and shot Jonathan a pointed

to carrying the constipation story on his

guess I've been skimping on water lately," Jon

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

let me take you to a doctor, all right? You're far too little to struggle with something

a child, nursed him through colic and fevers, knows how a single twitch of discomfort in that tiny body

his cheeks until his whole face

the problem, never imagining the confession would buy him this

ages since Cecilia had

I'll be fine if I drink more water.

model child, obedient, courteous, eager to

do. Maybe

gravity, the way

all lies you could invent, you picked constipation. Now

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

eyes soft with pity for the boy and a

at lightning speed, and ordered suppositories plus half a

they reached home, a courier stood at the gate like a summoned genie, parcel in hand. Cecilia placed the

don't be embarrassed. If you're not sure how to use them, I will help

Jonathan stared at the plastic-wrapped suppositories, despair dropping

near this particular battlefield. He shook his head

can manage

She ruffled his hair, every

she couldn't help pitying him. So young, already forced to endure the stubborn ache of constipation. If it lasted,

you," she said, voice low and gentle, as though sending him into

"Okay."

box like contraband and bolted down the hallway

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

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

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

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

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

you have to take tons of super-cool photos

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

the little photoshoot ended, she pinged the

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

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

return, video-called often to check on the

life seemed to find

will you and the children be able to come back for a visit?" Bethany

the Rainsworths, so her priorities were pulled toward

I have decided. We'll come right after

and I will prepare every one of your favorite dishes,"

while longer, then finally

change, Jonathan and Elliot collapsed onto their beds, fast asleep

and Nathaniel amid scattered shopping bags and the distant tick

drooping, intent on stealing five minutes of calm when Nathaniel

"Ceci."

jerked in surprise.

this all we're doing today?"

follow. What do you mean?" Confusion

eyes. "Nothing,"

room. Something inside

to his, worry eclipsing her earlier

step closer, the scent of cedar from

could

arms swept out

possessive motion,

as though staking a claim no one

have to

rough, velvet-edged with gravel, every syllable vibrating through the scant inches between

Cecilia's face. Her blush

me go! If Elliot or Jonathan

embrace, chin settling atop her

married people holding each other? They're

muttered, "Not babies?

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

genuine amazement slipping past her irritation. "You left

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

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

full team to watch over Elliot. As for Jonathan, let him stay

of his finger brushing

"Hmm?"

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

click. Her proud, composed husband

the kids outrank you.

a storm gathering behind

of Nathaniel's arms and bolted down

for it, then sprang

and tried to swing the door shut, Nathaniel planted one hand against the panel, his voice low

frowned, pushing harder on the door. "There are plenty of spare rooms

was no match for his effortless strength. With a gentle shove, he slipped inside, scooped

deadbolt turned, and darkness

wind hissed against the windows,

slicing through

face less than an inch away. She could count the fine stubble dusting

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

Nathaniel's brows twitched.

fluttered open, hazy with

murmured, drawing her even closer

up, Nathaniel. I can't breathe.” Her voice came

eyes again, and sighed. "Stay. Just a little longer." "It's already nine. We really have to get

her best friends a full day of window-shopping and

"Give me a few more minutes. Keep me

be, warmth and

you this attached?

grin tugged at his mouth. "I was younger.

and ruffled his hair, dark strands springing up beneath

have a busy day ahead," she said, trying

"Ceci, after you hit the mall with your friends,

shook her head. "That's it.

you buying?” he asked, still unwilling to

clothes for Mom, and something nice for Grandpa and

His tone carried a note of suspicion

"Nope."

shown the slightest interestin which dress of coat she bought yet this morning he fussed over every hanger she touched, as if

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

cause. He just hates it when I leave too quickly. With that familiar assumption, she let the moment pass and

Nathaniel lay staring at the ceiling until the silence felt like

rose, padded through quiet hallways,

1.

and Elliot off

idiot-half a brain short of being human!" Conrad shouted, his voice cracking with rage. "If you had even a sliver of

that only a complete fool like Alex could think the Wolfsbane family had

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

pale, then burned red. He spun toward the Baroness.

Her face darkened with fury and humiliation. Her own kin had mocked her-Beatrix and his husband, Conrad and then Annabella, her so-called pride, had done nothing but

of all people, it was Alex-the outcast,

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

least this one

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

The room fell silent.

Grandma," she

a

"Go on, Sofina -try all

fighting to lift this family up, while you bury

crimson. "You're the half-slave here, Alex -the real embarrassment of this family! You think Sofina's some kind of miracle worker? That she's going to save

family is great enough that even the Eden Group will want that collaboration. I believe in the Baroness's

sit here sneering. Tell me, Beatrix-what's your real problem? Do you not believe in your grandmother, or are you just like your husband-thinking your own grandmother's got half a brain? That she's an

just think it's impossible for Sofina to

being realistic-you're being a coward. You've already surrendered before the fight even started. That's not realism, Beatrix-that's disappointment dressed up as wisdom. And you know what they say: hell's full of

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

the room. "Then let's make this interesting. What if she

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

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

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

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

in, "Count me in too! If

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

lose. But fine-I'll play along.

love calling me a half-slave, how about this—if

You're really digging your own grave,

said. "If you

flinch. "Fine," he said calmly. "But if I win,

the bet and sent the document to

"I

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

family could actually secure that collaboration with the Eden

roared. "Sofina, you have three days to negotiate

out the window. "You really think Grandma trusts me

"Trust? No.

"That's

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

bet on your

arched a brow. "You really think

said. "It'll show who's

"And what

chuckled. "Then I'll finally fit right in with

a thick file of proposals she'd spent the

Nikolaus-a machine so rare in Winchester that it turned heads

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

the wheel. "Maybe it's too fancy for a gardener

Your grandmother and mother wouldn't dare buy you one, so let's enjoy it while

can."

him. "You really

smiled without looking away from the road. "More than okay. It's a sign, Sofina. We're on our way up. And when this is over, maybe

anxious, half amused. "I wish

That's enough. Come on, Sofina. Shoot for the moon; even if you miss, you'll land among the

car descended toward the Eden Group's towering

whispered as the car touched

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

QUMS

moment, her nerves eased. She wished she could carry that same unshakable optimism he

two-hundred-story tower and felt something empty out inside her-like a room

Group's glass façade rose into the sky like a polished god. The idea that the Wolfsbane family—old,

them was like a beggar asking a banker

in front of the whole house. There was no turning

seat occupied by nobles from Winchester: barons, viscounts, and counts,

huddled in quiet conversations, their voices low but tense, each waiting for

Group. The

all every one

of them was hono

thing: a

What on earth are you doing here?" a

found Heinrich standing with Katarina

hawks. Katarina's lips tightened the way a

sentence.

her walk in here?" Heinrich bowed his head like a man forced to swallow bile. "I'm sorry, Katarina. I tried. I truly did. I don't understand how she keeps turning

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

a security drone glided into the room,

monitor was just shoved by a guest-he

the footage,"

Sofina's arm,

on his gloves, and strode

found Sofina crouched on the floor, gathering a pile of scattered papers. He knelt beside

her

frustrated. "It's Heinrich. No matter what I

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

nothing serious," she

you don't need to print everything. The digital

I like the feel of paper. I like touching something

hand brushed his chest. "The same way I

"You really are

taught me that," she said softly. "You cooked for me, you looked at me like I was more than data in a file. You made me feel alive again. Sometimes I think it'd

teased each other as they walked back through the glass corridor of

voice cracked the

again," Heinrich barked, stepping forward. "What the hell are you doing here? I told you to stay away from me. I don't want you near me, you

The color drained

invisible chain that still tied her to

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

placing himself between Sofina

a guest.

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

You're not a king- you're just another arrogant

me an invitation—said I should run this place. You're a gardener.

go. Don't give him anything. He brings trouble." Heinrich's eyes

resources, hurried over and forced a smile while extending a hand. "Mr. Schiller. What an honor to have you at Eden Group. We'd be

snort. "I came here to join, yes. But somebody in your place had the nerve to try and kick

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

the man. Your gardener. He insulted

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

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 registered, the security androids wouldn't have given me the uniform."

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

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

Kneel and beg for his

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

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

he's not

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

shaking

be fired if

darkly. "Come on, Alex. We've known each other a long time. Just kneel and bow three

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

crowd started to gather, drawn by the rising tension. Laughter rippled

trying to stand up

"That gardener's got a name.

"Who?" someone asked.

"Alex-the dunce himself."

chuckled. "Oh hell, that Alex? The walking mistake of Winchester? No wonder he's mouthing off. He's too

smirked and

for my attention,

a fool who doesn't know his place. How about you

Three bows, and I

hand tightened around Alex's arm,

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

have the whole

you-even the Wolfsbane name you'll be nothing

s

stepped forward, but Sofina grabbed him tighter

was soft but steady. "Let me

searching her face. She met his eyes.

Sofina stepped forward

"You hit me, bitch-" He spat the word like

curse.

name do you think you're

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

hustled Heinrich upright, supporting him with a hand

Mister Heinrich. I've called security. Twenty lashes. She won't be standing after that her flesh will tell the

said, every syllable a command.

stepped forward until he stood toe-to-toe with Dietrich. "You'd better cancel

who'll get hurt is

bracelet. "Security — attend. Punish

his head. "I

began

she hit Heinrich," someone

Heinrich's

another voice

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

flagged a threat to her, an alert raced

room expected-Eve, the household robot Sofina

into his network bridge so she

every linked node. Any device that touched Sofina reported to Eve first-she was Sofina's guardian in the

the network. "Override the previous command.

optical sensors swung

chest. The shock

process it, security robot drew an electric whip

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

alarm. "Is the Eden security unit malfunctioning?"

Eden Group tech is already the most advanced,"

ripple of confusion

until Dietrich had

kicked him

catch

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

and venomous. "I'll teach you a

lunged toward her, his

Heinrich had struck

not because she was weak, but because she'd

arm. "Find someone your own size,"

slave — let go of

lid. The government cameras watched from every

screamed like an animal, pain

a hand that felt as if bone

gasped, tears wet on his cheeks as

room like a storm breaking loose. Her heels struck the marble floor with sharp

-

finished presenting their offer - a bid to replace the

the next

were desperater

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

the main hall, the polished calm of her diplomacy shattered. What she saw

holding Heinrich down, and Heinrich

stormed over and slapped Alex hard. "You half-slave!" she

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

met her eyes and released Heinrich's arm. "Calling the police won't help you,"

that true?" Katarina asked

She hit my nose." Heinrich

what? You're not a noble. You're a coward wearing

Prussia, nobles still carried real power. The law

an immigrant struck a noble, the punishment could be death. If a commoner

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

protected rank, not

commoner, most people just accepted it. That was the

power didn't need to explain

sharp

know why you married Sofina — to make me jealous, to get my attention. Well,

won't divorce her. Go ahead and

have to be

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

hardening his face. "Do you really think

That everyone just

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

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

Now!" Katarina's voice cracked

discovered something she wouldn't admit

him.

for her, the way he shielded her

Heinrich, everything was cold

this moment. He didn't want to face Katarina—not here,

to put distance between them, but before he could take another step, her hand shot out and clamped around his

and found her staring at him, fierce and

stop, Alex," Katarina said,

closer. "Remember when I made you kneel in the rain for three days and nights? You think I

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

her hand whipped across his face. The slap cracked through the

beneath it something else trembled — a flash of tears she fought to hide, gripping him with a desperation that made her fingers

I command

bitch!" Katarina

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

Sofina caught it in one

ordered. "You're his ex- don't touch him

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

heard the

title was bought

barony by stabbing their own marquis, the

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

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

and some Rosenheim retainers shuffled forward, eager to prove their loyalty. They moved to strike to humiliate Sofina for daring to

silver Eden security robot glided

is permitted on Eden Group property," it announced firmly. "Cease all

of tasers snapped out. Electricity flashed. The would-be attackers jerked, their

No violence," the security unit repeated.

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

Sofina grabbed Alex's hand.

here," she said,

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

trembling with rage. “You promised to obey me, to give me your body,

gestures-empty rituals, hollow vows,

answer, another android glided up

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

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

you?" she asked, her

it. These people won't be able to follow." He smiled faintly, calm

the corridor. The robot stopped at a glass door and bowed slightly. "Please wait here. The person in charge will arrive shortly." It turned and glided away, leaving her alone in the silent,

door opened and a poised woman in a tailored suit

change in location. Please follow me. Miss Von Adler would like to meet you in her

Von

ma'am. She's

followed the

Group headquarters. Her

Adler-the most powerful woman in

proposal yet, the one about working with the Wolfsbane family. She

It didn't make sense.

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

Von Adler-the legendary chairwoman of Eden Group-rose

Von Adler,

standing before the most powerful

as she answered, but she kept her

met

to see me," she said. "I came to discuss the collaboration proposal. I know the Wolfsbane Group isn't as large

we work hard.

never disappoint."

to .net

folder. "This is

take a look."

calm, knowing smile and took the file. She opened

few pages,

her voice soft but sure, "I've already reviewed

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

out.

all felt too quick-too easy. She had

expecting a long negotiation. And

in seconds.

leaned back, her expression unreadable

doesn't fully meet our usual standards. But our founder hold's your very nigh regard. He personally requested this partnership be

founder?" she asked, her voice barely above

know who

faint smile. “Our founder," she said softly, "is the most handsome man I've

Sofina blinked, unsure if

You'll understand when the time

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

carried weight. Alex had instructed her not to

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

that's right," she said,

"Oh no," she said easily. "In fact, it's less than what we planned

"What do you

founder instructed me to increase the contract value," Marlena said

wants it set at one hundred million

breath catching. "One...

repeated, barely believing it.

folder, retrieved a crisp contract, and slid it

dollars in total. If you have

document in disbelief.

corporations in Winchester-had not

back. "I forbid you from seeing her! If you

Despite his age, Mr. Everly's arm was still strong; after just a few blows, Finnian's

but Mr. Everly wouldn't listen. He kept shouting, "I'll beat you to death!" and from the look in his eyes, he almost meant

caught Mr. Everly's arm,

at Finnian and gasping for

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

long, searching look, then turned

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

fall as he squeezed her

to her; today, he was determined to be with Liliana. Thinking back on the words he'd spoken to

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

"What is it?"

Qu

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

She nearly

Everly listened, utterly exhausted, guilt weighing on

for not

l.ne

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 knew that all too well.

patted her hand wearily. "Ama, I'm tired. I need to lie down for a

nodded. "Rest well, Grandpa. I'll see

left, Mr. Everly lay in bed, tossing and turning, unable to sleep. Was there truly no hope for Amara and Finnian? He really did care for her, and he'd always dreamed She'd stay with the Everly

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

He'd changed his shirt, and his wounds looked hastily

Chapter 365

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before looking

But Finnian spoke up.

"That's not necessary-"

you," he added quickly, sensing her

rest between them. She nodded, walked out to his

real," she

of her grandmother, who had dreamed of a collaboration

it would come with such generosity. Now they

had been given

hands shook slightly as she looked up at Marlena, eyes wide

and awe.

you,” she whispered. "Thank you so

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

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

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

thought bitterly. It's the ordinary days that

the empty mornings, the silence at dinner, the ache of realizing you've

of pride instead of

screamed, desperate and trembling, "Alex, I'm

to have my attention Start kneeling, sweetheart. Maybe I'let your husband keep his job. And if you take off your

a moment, everything went

Sofina smiled.

Heinrich could blink, her fist shot forward and cracked

his nose

stumbled back, clutching his face, howling in shock

the crowd gasped.

u are."

this is about business. We both know why you're

of Katarina's sight you're fucking pathetic

like a man hauling out a scandal.

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

over."

Sofina hit the ground, landing on her backside as the folder burst open, papers scattering across

make sure you

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

few days later, Liliana set the internet

side by side in front of a house.

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

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

it feel

and Finnian, whispers of their relationship, speculation they'd get married someday. But

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

with

film set. The moment she walked on, people flocked around her, eager to curry favor. Some

this. Maintaining her graceful smile,

?

saying she'd forced Finnian to stay by her side with her life on the

But so what?

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

appeared. “Hey, I heard you had a rough time a

and another few days recovering at home.

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

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

along well with her, and they'd even had

Liliana, Hogan had been the only member of theChapter

could tell-she was a master at hiding her emotions. Even if

few meaningless exchanges, he cut

was the first time Hogan hadn't called her "sis- in-law." She couldn't

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

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

he spotted Amara coming down the

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

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

this up. "Weren't they already together for ages?" she

hesitated, about to correct her, but Amara cut him off. "Does it even matter? Did you need

He frowned, frustrated.

pregnant" with Finnian's child, they'd never actually been a

be anything left between them He'd wanted

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

just asked what he actually

was the real reason he'd

"Why

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

like she was lying. His frown deepened.

Amara answered

made Liliana clench her fists, her eyes darkening

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

late into the night. This evening

knock came at her door. "Come in," she called, barely glancing up. Keith strolled in like he owned the place, flopping

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

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

can't quite put my finger on it," Keith replied, shaking his head. “It's just..... Finnian's gone the extra mile for Liliana these past

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

tone. "What's the big deal? Didn't Liliana just have a

"True enough."

a close eye on Amara's expression, only relaxing when he saw no trace of

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

was mid-sip

over her keyboard, Grabbing a

the

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

I want to marry you, Keith

back on the couch and drawled, "Who says I want to

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

just rolled her eyes. As

about the stigma of being a

walked over and rapped him on the head.

said, her voice light, "but there's really no need.

family than friends. They always found different ways to look out for her-Elysia with her warm, attentive gestures, Keith with his gruff but steadfast

suggestion tonight had completely blindsided her, she could still sense his good intentions and, in a

still utterly clueless. He sighed, clearly giving up hope

and rapped his knuckles lightly against her forehead. "Alright, alright, have it your way.

noted. Now go do your job already." Amara

was still one more scene to shoot-an important one, at that: the first kiss between the male

from behind the camera. Keith and Liliana were already in position, standing in front of the lens while Cedric, the director,

step apart, and Cedric moved behind the camera to adjust the

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

Cedric asked,

"I think we should fake

fell over

days, faking a kiss with clever camera work was pretty standard, but usually it was the actress who requested it. Having the male lead bring up first, especially

filming kiss scenes, and in the past, she'd always been the one to request the camera trick. This time, with Keith bringing it up first, she couldn't

something-otherwise it would only look worse. She curved her lips into a teasing smile. "What's

mouth as she laughed. "You two

furrowed immediately,

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

awkwardness, a crew member-someone who'd been fawning over

over.

to care much about that sort of

and she quietly let out a breath she hadn't realized

at the corner of

silence that followed was

been a subtle game of chess, this was Keith upending the board

how composed she tried to appear, Liliana's hands balled into fists at her sides. She couldn't get a single word out, her face paling

today's golden child could be tomorrow's nobody, and vice versa. You learned to leave people a little dignity, in case you had to work together again

Liliana not a shred of dignity. Was he really trying to burn

the room grew tense, Amara finally spoke up. She shot Keith a cool glance

attitude shifted in an instant. "Of course, Ama. Whatever you

tone when he spoke to Amara was so stark it

after midnight when

the entrance, as if searching for someone but the place was deserted. He quickly masked any sign of curiosity

Finnian's fleeting glance. Who had he

lip, hiding her unease, and forced a smile. "Finn, something happened on set today. We were supposed to film a kissing

And when

obvious-he likes

paused, his expression as unreadable as ever, offering no comment. Sensing she'd said enough, Liliana deftly steered the conversation elsewhere, though she was certain her words would linger in Finnian's

at the door and was just about to head upstairs when Amara

quickly looked ahead and pretended not to notice him, striding forward

called out to

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