Cherished By Seven Sisters by Melvin Houle

However, Larissa was not interested, and he respected her decision.

Recently, he received a call from his younger brother, Brian, claiming to have been beaten up. Brian deliberately emphasized that it was Larissa’s lover who had done it, without mentioning Maximus as the assailant.

This thought fueled Cillian’s hatred.

Therefore, after rushing over, he asked Brian a question and then turned his piercing gaze towards Emrys.

“You are Lady Lockwood's lover?” Cillian emphasized the word “lover.” Emrys laughed and replied, “Since you already know, why bother asking? Do you want me to elaborate on the details of my romantic moments with Lady Lockwood?” Cillian narrowed his eyes, and a surge of murderous intent overwhelmed him like an unstoppable flood.

The impact of these words on him was even more

devastating than learning about his younger brother's beating.

In the corner, Darrell, who had lost two front teeth, ground his teeth in anger. As he bit down, blood seeped from the gaps, a clear testament to his deep hatred for Emrys.

He could say that he understood Cillian’s feelings the best.

Not long ago, Emrys had repeatedly provoked him in a similar Chapter 494 The Arrival Of Cillian manner, almost causing him to have a mental breakdown.

A glint of murder flashed in Cillian’s eyes as he approached Emrys. He said, “Earlier, you told my brother that you wanted to learn from me. Now that I'm here, how do you wish to be instructed?” His desire to kill Emrys grew increasingly intense, but ideally, he wanted to humble Emrys before taking his life.

One of the reasons for this was that Cillian found Emrys* gaze extremely irritating.

Emrys' gaze was not particularly aggressive. On the contrary, his eyes exuded tranquility. It was this calmness that irked Cillian.

What he hoped to see was fear in Emrys’ eyes.

This tranquility only made it seem like Emrys held all the power, as if he was watching a clown. Published by Név'elD/rama.Org.

Of course, Cillian was not pleased.

As he approached Emrys, the oppressive aura emanating from him grew increasingly immense. His internal energy roiled thunderously, seemingly impatient, ready to burst forth at any moment.

He was currently in the late phase of Manifestor.

Reaching the late phase of Manifestor at the age of twenty-seven or twenty—eight was an achievement that should not be underestimated. His talent was truly exceptional.

Confronted with the formidable Cillian, Emrys remained calm and composed, maintaining his usual smile as he spoke, “I will certainly seek your guidance, but not at this moment.” Cillian’s eyebrows furrowed slightly. “What do you mean by that?” “Let's settle this with a life—and—death duel. In three days, we will fight to determine our destiny. And as for the location of our duel... let's choose your alma mater, the Jipsdale Martial Arts Academy.” “There's no need for that,” Cillian shook his head. “I could kill you right now.” “Don’t you want to prove yourself?” Emrys questioned.

Cillian was taken aback. “Prove what?”

Emrys chuckled and replied, “Prove that you are stronger than me and that Lady Lockwood's decision to choose me was a foolish one.” Send Gifts

After a moment of silence, a faint smile appeared on Cillian’s lips, yet the murderous intent in his eyes did not fade. He said, “You're quite intriguing. What | don’t understand is why you would willingly propose a solution that could easily lead to your own downfall?” If Cillian had killed Emrys right then and there, the incident probably wouldn't have spread too far. However, if the two agreed to a life-and-death duel three days later, then those three. days would be sufficient for the situation to escalate.

By then, it was estimated that the entire Jipsdale would be aware of the duel.

After all, one was a martial arts prodigy, while the other was Lady Lockwood's lover. Both tities were highly attention— grabbing.

Their gamble was bound to cause a commotion in Jipsdale.

‘When Emrys eventually met his demise at the hands of Cillian, it would be witnessed by countless people.

Emrys responded, “You do make a valid point, but how can you be so certain that | will be the one to lose?” Cillian’s pupils contracted.

In other words, he’s implying that he won't lose, but | will? “You are very confident.” 1/4 Chapter 495 What Is Your Relationship With Him With a light chuckle, Cillian’s murderous aura gradually subsided, indicating that he had finally accepted Emrys* proposed resolution.

Brian, however, was extremely unwilling and protested loudly, “Cillian, don't listen to him. This punk is definitely trying to buy time. Who knows where he'll escape to using those three days!” “You have a point.” After a moment of contemplation, Cillian suddenly turned

his head towards Samuel and asked, “You all seem to be quite concerned about this young man. What is his relationship with the Langford family?” “Wer Teagan was about to blurt out that the Langford family had no connection whatsoever with Emrys. However, he was interrupted by the stern gaze of Samuel.

“You answer,” Cillian said, pointing at Blanche.

The reason he was convinced that the Langford family had ties with Emrys was because he had seen the concerned look on Blanche’s face. This worry had surfaced when Cillian had directed a murderous intent towards Emrys.

This indicated that Blanche was indeed worried about Emrys.

Upon seeing Cillian pointing at her, Blanche’s expression instantly froze. She felt a tug on her arm and turned to see that it was her father, Alpheus.

Alpheus was shaking his head slightly, as if he was conveying some sort of message to Blanche.

Blanche understood his intentions and felt a chill run through her.

It was crystal clear.

Alpheus wanted Blanche to deny any relationship with Emrys.

Blanche then looked towards Samuel.

Although Samuel did not show any signs, his solemn expression revealed that he, too, was hesitant about this matter.

Samuel was not an ungrateful person by nature, and his affection for Blanche was profound. This was evident from his initial refusal to marry Blanche off to the Cunningham family, a move that would have secured protection for the Langford family.

However, just as Alpheus and Teagan had previously

stated, things were different now, and this matter was of great significance.

Even if he didn't consider himself, he needed to think about the lives of the many people in the Langford family.

As the head of the Langford family, there were certain questions. that Samuel was not suited to answer. On one hand, he didn’t want Emrys to think that he was an ungrateful person.

On the other hand, his response largely represented the intentions of the Langford family.

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If Samuel were to say that he had no connection whatsoever with Emrys, it would mean that the entire Langford family would offend Emrys.

However, if it were Blanche who responded, it could be explained afterward that, due to her young age and naivety, she was afraid of getting involved, which was why she claimed that she had no significant ties with Emrys.

Everyone was well aware of this reasoning, including Samuel. Emrys, on the other hand, would surely find it hard to believe, but this kind of superficial behavior had already become a tradition in Chanaea.

‘When someone wanted to reject another person, they wouldn't directly express it, but instead, they would employ other tactics to make their intentions clear. If the other person were to accuse them, they could simply claim that it was the other party who had misunderstood the situation.

Blanche’s heart sank even further when she noticed Samuels attitude.

This was the second time she had felt let down by her own family.

It was even more disheartening than the first time.

At least Samuel had been sensible the last time. But this time, he was acting foolish.

After a moment of silence, Blanche forced a smile and replied, “Mr. Lund is the Langford family’s benefactor. My grandfather was seriously ill, and Mr. Lund cured him.” The members of the Langford family’s faces changed dramatically.

Alpheus’ eyes filled with reproach.

Teagan, along with his wife Eloise, displayed resentment.

Even Samuel, who had shown no expression, had a slightly dimmed gaze.

Cillian observed everything that was happening and gave Blanche a long look. Then, he looked at Alpheus, Teagan,

and the others from the Langford family with disdain. He scoffed and said, “You old folks have lived in vain. You lack the courage of a 1/5 2032 THU, 15 Feb Chapter 496 Disappointment.

young girl.” The expressions of the group changed once again.

However, Cillian had already turned back to Emrys, confidently declaring, “If | don’t see you in three days, | will hold the Langford family accountable. Brian, let's go!” Although Brian was filled with resentment and wished he could tear Emrys apart, he had no choice but to leave reluctantly since his brother had said so.

“I'll give you three more days to live. After three days, | want to witness your death with my own eyes!” Through gritted teeth, Brian issued a harsh warning to Emrys before promptly leaving with Cillian.

With the Russell brothers gone, Darrell naturally wouldn't stay behind. Before leaving, he also left Emrys with a harsh warning, “You should go back and tell Lady Lockwood to prepare a coffin for your corpse!” Emrys merely glared at him, and Darrell’s bravado immediately faded away. He slinked off, embarrassed and clutching his two broken teeth.

Despite being a respected instructor at the capital's Martial Arts Academy, he had been utterly humiliated today.

The crowd that should have dispersed had already left.

Among those who remained, the Langford family members had Chapter 496 Disappointment the most unpleasant expressions.

Their hearts felt as if they had plummeted to the bottom of a ravine.

It was clearly Emrys who had gone mad, so why should the Langford family bear the consequences? Old Mr. Langford had spoiled Blanche. She should have been sent to the Cunningham family without her knowledge when Old Mr.

Langford was seriously ill. What a troublemaker! After hesitating for a while, Alpheus approached and said, “Mr. Lund, Cillian is not someone to be taken lightly. How about | arrange a secluded place for you to recover before confronting Cillian?” Emrys looked at him mockingly and said, “Old Mr.

Langford, you're quite considerate!” Emrys sneered inwardly.

How could he not understand the intentions of this old man? It was clear that he was afraid that if Emrys escaped, Cillian would take his anger out on their family.

However, Alpheus seemed oblivious to the sarcasm in Emrys’s words. He bowed and said, “Mr. Lund, please don’t misunderstand. You are our family’s benefactor, and | certainly don’t want you to lose to Cillian. It's important to

improve your condition.” “Stop pretending. Since I've said I'll face Cillian, | won't run away at the last moment. | appreciate your concern, but it's Chapter 496 Disappointment 18% unnecessary.” Alpheus’s expression changed slightly at Emrys’s words.

Emrys looked at the restaurant owner, Preston, signaling for him to leave. Preston, understanding the situation, promptly ushered all the staff out.

Seeing that the Langford family still hesitated to leave, Emrys furrowed his brow and said, “What, do you want to keep monitoring me until the day of the martial arts tournament?” “Mr. Lund, you've misunderstood...” “Then leave immediately!” Previously, Emrys held a positive opinion of Alpheus, but in

this instant, he realized that wicked individuals were universally alike. Even someone with strong principles could be compelled to make decisions contrary to their own desires when certain interests were involved.

While Emrys could comprehend this, it didn't sit comfortably with him.

Moreover, he had little regard for anything that didn't align with his own values.

Samuel was left frozen by this harsh rebuke.

Simultaneously, a feeling of discontent welled up within his heart.

However, upon locking eyes with Emrys, the elderly man suddenly trembled.

The dissatisfaction in his heart transformed into overwhelming shock.

That gaze...

It resembled that of a disdainful king, filled with irresistible authority. Just one glance, and the blood in Alpheus’s veins seemed to freeze.

Samuel was a Venerable Being.

Such a gaze should never appear on a young man barely in his twenties.

It was terrifying! In the end, the members of the Langford family had no choice but to leave.

The spacious third—floor banquet hall was left with only three people-Emrys, Maximus, and Shanise.

Emrys glanced at the two and said, “Now that it's quiet, do you. have any private matters to discuss? If so, I'll step aside.

immediately.” Silence ensued.

1/4 Chapter 497 Terrifying Gaze QK18% Seeing that they did not respond, Emrys felt somewhat.

embarrassed.

After a moment of contemplation, he consciously walked to the innermost part of the hall, where there was a row of windows.

While avoiding the conversation, he could also take a look at the outside scenery.

Maximus and Shanise simply looked at each other, remaining silent.

Maximus had been betrayed, and Shanise had already

clearly understood Brian's attitude.

Both of them were feeling quite downcast, at a loss for words for a moment. In the end, it was Shanise who broke the silence. “Max, I'm sorry..." She was apologizing again.

Hearing that, Maximus felt a wave of irritation wash over him. He shook his head numbly. “You don't need to apologize to me. Everyone has their own desires, and | can’t blame you since | can't provide what you seek. So, | have no right to blame you.” “Does that mean you've forgiven me?” Shanise’s eyes lit up.

Maximus explained, “When | said | wouldn't hold it against you earlier, | had already forgiven you. But forgiveness doesn’t mean we can reconcile. From now on, let's go our separate ways.” ‘When Brian had earlier expressed his intention to kill Maximus,

Shanise had pleaded on Maximus's behalf. As a result, she had been slapped by Brian.

It proved that Shanise still cared for Maximus.

Although Maximus no longer harbored hatred, reconciliation with Shanise was simply impossible.

For him, Shanise took a beating from Brian, and in return, he gave Brian a good thrashing for Shanise. From then on, they considered their scores settled. It was pointless to dwell upon her infidelity now.

He decided to let it go.

Shanise’s eyes dimmed, realizing that starting anew with Maximus was impossible.

She felt she was unworthy.

“Max, Brian has a powerful background. He's not someone you can afford to provoke. Please, listen to my advice.

Leave Jipsdale quickly and ignore everything else. Just run as far as you can.”

Previously, with important figures around, Shanise had no say. Now, with only her and Maximus left, she finally had the chance to express her inner thoughts.

“If you were to die at the hands of Brian because of me, | would carry the guilt for the rest of my life...” Shanise still believed that the whole incident started because of her, and involving Maximus made her feel deeply guilty.

3/4 12. Thitr Chapter 497 Tentfying Gaze Maximus, however, shook his head, saying, “I won't leave. | want to stay here and be with Rys. Besides, | believe he will handle everything.” Though he couldn't do much, he wouldn't run away at a time like this.

Staying here and giving Emrys his support would show his stance.

Shanise pleaded, “Max, | know we can't get back together, but can you please listen to me one last time? You used to always heed my advice, didn’t you?” The animosity that Cillian and Brian harbored was now clearly directed toward Emrys. If Maximus were to escape, his chances of survival were undoubtedly greater than Emrys'.

One death was better than two.

Shanise was naive enough to think that way.

Maximus interjected, “Please cease speaking. Even in the event of my demise, | would never forsake Rys.”

Chapter 498 Empyrean Lord “Max...

“Shut up!” Maximus impatiently interrupted Shanise, leaving her stunned.

Seeing her distraught expression, Maximus softened and couldn't help but say, “You really don't need to worry about me because. Rys is formidable. He's the Empyrean Lord.” Empyrean Lord? Shanise was dumbfounded.

At that moment, Emrys suddenly approached Maximus and asked, “Are you finished talking?” Maximus nodded.

The two of them exited the seafood restaurant.

With an apologetic expression, Maximus said, “Rys, I'm sorry.” “Huh?” Is it common to apologize now?

Emrys was momentarily puzzled. “Why are you apologizing to me?” “I just revealed your identity to Shanise.” 1/4 cao thu thich lo Chapter 408 Empyrean Lord Maximus vividly remembered that Emrys had warned him not to casually reveal his identity. However, after witnessing Shanise’s reaction just now, he couldn't resist.

Maximus had already prepared himself for a harsh scolding from Emrys.

However, Emrys casually patted his shoulder and said, “I heard it. Even if you reveal my identity, Shanise may not believe it. And even if she does believe it, no one else will.” After all, the Empyrean Lord was regarded as a godlike figure to the Chanaeans.

People would sooner believe in Christmas miracles than believe that the Empyrean Lord was a young man in his early twenties.

Otherwise, witnesses wouldn't display such shocked expressions every time Emrys revealed his identity.

Emrys continued, “You've got some backbone, lad. You didn’t degrade yourself into a simp. I'm impressed by the way you handled things just now.” Maximus remained silent.

“Furthermore, | didn't misjudge you. Despite knowing that Jipsdale would be hit by a heavy storm in the coming days, you still resolutely chose to stand with me on the front lines. That's true loyalty.” Maximus couldn't help but say, “Rys, didn’t you say you were stepping aside just now?”

“I did step aside, all the way to the window. But people are always a bit curious. | just happened to overhear a little bit of your conversation.” Is this what you call a little bit? Shanise and | only spoke for a short while. Did you perhaps use a loudspeaker and listen to the entire conversation right next to your ear? You stepped aside for nothing! Back at the Langford residence, the atmosphere was oppressively tense.

“Kneel down!” Suddenly, a palm slammed onto the solid wooden table, causing a vibrating shock, accompanied by a stern and harsh roar.

The one who slammed the table was Alpheus.

The one being scolded was Blanche.

Blanche stood in the middle of the hall, surrounded by members. of the Langford family. They all glared at her darkly as if she had committed a grave sin.

If looks could kill, Blanche would have been riddled with holes by now.

Blanche paled slightly when Alpheus roared at her.

However, she remained defiant, biting her lip as she retorted, “I did nothing wrong. Why should | kneel?” “You did nothing wrong? How could you possibly think that?”

Eloise immediately interjected. She pointed her finger at Blanche’s face and scolded, “You brought Emrys into our family, didn’t you? Earlier at the restaurant, you were the one who connected us with him, weren't you? How can you claim innocence?” When Eloise said this, the anger of the Langford family members. around them was immediately ignited. They stared at Blanche with even more hostile eyes.

Although they were all members of the Langford family, in such a large clan, those at the top couldn't control everyone. After the family branched out, internal strife was inevitable.

In the past, Blanche was deeply loved by Samuel, which stirred- intense jealousy among them.

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Today's events, especially Blanche’s actions, had clearly disturbed Samuel. Consequently, they would definitely not miss out on such a golden opportunity.

It would be wise to capitalize on this incident and completely eliminate the positive impression Blanche had left in Samuel's heart.

Therefore, after Eloise spoke, the surrounding people also joined in the accusations, wishing they could beat Blanche to death with a stick.

Blanche clenched her teeth, her delicate body trembling slightly. However, compared to the last time when these people said they wanted to marry her off to the Cunningham family, she was faring much better.

Every obstacle experienced was a form of growth.

Therefore, Blanche did not lose her composure hysterically but listened to their accusations with a cold demeanor until they quieted down. She sneered, “Despicable and shameless losers!” “What did you say?” Exclusive © material by No(/v)elDrama.Org.

“Have you lost your mind, Blanche? We are your elders, yet you dare to insult us, calling us despicable and

shameless scoundrels? Who taught you to say such outrageous words?” “I think she doesn’t even care about us. That's why she couldn't wait to tie our family with that madman, Emrys back at the restaurant.” The crowd, who had already grown tired of hurling insults, found renewed energy upon hearing Blanche’s words.

Once again, they criticized her without holding back.

Alpheus’ face was dark, his veins bulging in anger. He bellowed, “You're becoming more and more unreasonable.

This is your last 1/4 Chapter 499 Kneel chance. Kneel!” “I won't kneel!” Blanche insisted.

Bang!

Alpheus slapped the adjacent solid wooden table, causing it to shatter. He stood up and strode toward Blanche, raising his hand to strike.

Blanche didn’t dodge.

Instead, she raised her head defiantly, staring at Alpheus, and said, “Hit me!” “You...” Alpheus was so angry that his hand trembled, but ultimately, the slap did not land. He remembered the last time Blanche had the same attitude.

Alayna hurriedly ran over to pull Alpheus away.

Blanche surveyed the angry crowd around her, sneering, “Mr. Lund was invited to the Langford family by me. But why did | invite him? It was to help Grandpa recover. What did | do wrong? When Grandpa was critically ill and on the verge of passing away, Mr. Lund saved him. So, when | said in the restaurant that Mr. Lund is the benefactor of the Langford family, did | do something wrong? Mr. Lund is our benefactor, but you deliberately concealed Mr. Lunds

actions out of fear that the anger from the Russell family would affect you. Was | wrong in calling you shameless losers? Earlier at the restaurant, when 2/4 Chapter 490 Kheel 1842 Cillian questioned us, each of you played dumb. Wasn't it because you were afraid of offending Mr. Lund that you wanted me to take the blame? | just stated a fact, and now I'm getting scolded. Was | wrong in calling you despicable? If you're so capable, go tell Mr. Lund to his face that you want to disassociate from him, instead of venting your anger on me, a young girl.” The series of rhetorical questions from Blanche left the people of the Langford family speechless.

They ended up in this awkward situation because they neither wanted to offend the Russell family nor Emrys.

Therefore, they had no choice but to feign ignorance and let Blanche take the fall.

As a result, when Blanche’s response did not align with their wishes, they began to vent their anger on Blanche.

This was a classic case of acting meek and civil in public, but a tyrant at home.

Eloise and others were silenced by Blanche’s retorts. At this moment, Teagan stood up and said, “Blanche, we know that what you said is true. However, in this world, many things are not judged based on right or wrong; the key is compromise. If Emrys offends the Russell family, he might die, but he might also be protected by the Mapleton family. But for our family, once we board the wrong ship, who will protect us? Emrys? He can’t even protect himself!” Blanche shook her head and responded, “That's just your perspective. From my standpoint, there is a clear distinction. between right and wrong.”

Teagan let out a sigh, frustrated by Blanche’s lack of understanding. He approached Samuel, who was scowling, and inquired, “Dad, why did you refuse to let us keep an eye on Emrys at the restaurant? What if he had actually fled?”

The others in the hall also turned their gaze towards Samuel.

They were equally puzzled.

Cillian had clearly stated that if Emrys were to escape, he would take it out on the Langford family. Thus, it was only right for the Langford family to be vigilant and not give Emrys any chance to escape.

However, after Emrys roared at Samuel, he surprisingly obediently led them away.

It was truly baffling.

Samuel had been absent-minded all this time. When he heard Teagan calling him, he snapped out of it. His dry lips moved, and he said, “Mr. Lund is no ordinary person.” He was sure that Emrys was someone with extraordinary potential.

Samuel remained silent for an indeterminate period before

slowly reaching such a conclusion, catching the other members of the Langford family off guard.

Teagan scratched his head in confusion. “Dad, what are you talking about? Although that Emrys has some skills, what you said seems to be an exaggeration.” Saying that someone had extraordinary potential meant that he would rise to the top.

1/4 Chapter 500 Not As Simple With a genius like Cillian overshadowing him, how could he rise to the top? In the eyes of the Langford family members, Emrys had only two identities: a disciple of Athos and a stepbrother to Larissa.

Athos was a friar, and so was Emrys. Regardless of how advanced his medical skills were, he was still a friar with exceptional medical expertise.

As for Larissa, she was no match compared to the Russell

family.

Therefore, Samuel's sudden statement made no sense.

Samuel cast a look at the confused family members as his gaze flickered. He explained, “Previously, at the restaurant, Mr. Lund only gave me a single look, but it evoked a certain feeling in me. He is not as simple as we perceive him to be.” In the past, the Emrys that Samuel had encountered was always. rather gentle. Emrys had only lost his temper once-at the restaurant.

A single glance from him filled Samuel with a sense of terrifying oppression. It was an aura of sovereignty that could only be exuded by those who held high positions.

So, Samuel came to the conclusion that Emrys was no ordinary person.

Alpheus furrowed his brow and asked, “Dad, could this be

your imagination?” 2/4 Chapter 500 Not As Simple 18%7 Samuel shook his head. “Although | am getting old, my eyesight has not deteriorated to the point of needing reading glasses.” Samuel was a Venerable Being and possessed an incredibly sharp sense of perception. The clash between experts was no longer confined to forms. Often, the confrontation had already begun the moment their eyes met.

In the confrontation at the restaurant, Samuel was thoroughly defeated.

“Think carefully again. Was the noise we heard before we went upstairs emitted by the White Dragon King?” Samuel continued to analyze.

“I've been a longstanding opponent of the White Dragon King. | am very familiar with his aura, but when we arrived on the third floor, the White Dragon King had already vanished without a trace. This doesn't align with his usual style. And there was Preston. How could he remain indifferent when Mr. Lund fought in his restaurant? However, he chose to be neutral, indicating that he was aware of Mr. Lund’s background, which was no less formidable than that of Cillian.” Alpheus asked, “So, when we left the restaurant, you sought out Preston to clarify this matter?” When the Langford family members were preparing to leave the restaurant in a gloomy mood, they saw Samuel approaching Preston alone. However, they didn't know what they specifically discussed until now.

It was only when Samuel spoke up that they finally understood.

Samuel nodded, saying, “Preston’s response was interesting. He was vague, yet it wasn't hard to discern the underlying meaning within his words.” “What did he say?” Everyone in the Langford family was curious.

After a brief pause, Samuel said, “White Dragon King told him not to lose sight of the main goal because of small gains.” Lose sight of the main goal because of small gains? Everyone fell silent.

The meaning of this statement was already quite evident.

Could it be that Emrys’s background was actually more formidable than that of the Russell family? “After all the speculation, we still couldn't ascertain Emrys’s identity. You all are merely speculating here. In my opinion, Emrys is simply asserting false authority. It is not as

intricate as you perceive it to be.”