Chapter 347: Into the Lion's Den

Josephine's question revealed she knew of the Jantz family, and fear gripped her. Anthony shook his head. "It's not that simple. Zachariah gave the Department of Justice three days, but he's already guarding Horington's exits. He doesn't trust the DOJ."

"T-Then what should we do?" Josephine panicked.

Walter and Glen shared grim expressions. Jared had saved their lives, yet they were helpless now. Even the Whitaker family wouldn't challenge the Jantz family, let alone speak to its patriarch. Walter's retirement had severely diminished his influence; otherwise, he might have been able to intercede.

"I'll go to Summerbank with you," Jared announced.

Everyone stared. Josephine exclaimed, "You can't! You don't understand how powerful the Jantz family is!"

Walter warned, "Mr. Chance, the Jantz family dwarfs the Whitakers. The Whitakers' power stemmed from the Jantz family's backing. The Whitakers were businessmen; the Jantz family are martial arts experts. Zachariah Whitaker is an internal energy Grandmaster—immeasurably powerful! You can't go!"

Jared smiled nonchalantly. "The Whitaker family is gone. I don't mind eliminating the Jantz family as well."

Anthony's disdain was palpable. Initially impressed by Jared's rescue of Walter and Glen, he was now repulsed by his arrogance. "You're too arrogant, kid. The Jantz family has a century-long history; you can't simply eliminate them."

"Time will prove whether I can wipe them out," Jared sneered.

"Fine," Anthony said. "Since you're going to Summerbank, let's leave tomorrow. I guarantee your safety en route." His initial conflict—respect for Jared's past actions versus his current bravado—was resolved by Jared's decision.

"Sure," Jared agreed.

Jared enjoyed his meal; Josephine couldn't eat. She wanted to dissuade him, but knew it was futile. She understood his temperament—once he made a decision, nothing could change his mind.

Afterward, Anthony had Lizbeth, Josephine's close friend, stay with them overnight to prevent Jared from leaving. It was only for a night, so it wasn't an inconvenience.

Back at Dragon Summit, Josephine was despondent; Lizbeth, unsure how to comfort her, remained silent. The atmosphere was heavy. Jared calmly made coffee for them both.

"Why so glum? It's not a farewell. I'll be back in a few days," he said, smiling at Josephine's dejection.

"Jared, please don't go! If worse comes to worst, we'll wait in Horington. We can still fight the Jantz family if they come here. Going to Summerbank is walking into a lion's den!" she pleaded.

"Do you think that's still possible?" Jared smiled, glancing at Lizbeth.

(The promotional text "Search the FindNovel.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality." has been removed as it is irrelevant to the text cleanup.)