Chapter 361: Unprovoked

Phoenix was furious. Someone was causing a disturbance at her bar and had specifically requested to see her. No one, not even Summerbank's most prominent families, dared challenge her so brazenly. She quickly gathered several men and headed to the bar.

Meanwhile, Jared sat comfortably, playing with his Dragon Ring, awaiting her arrival. Tommy had warned him that the Dragon Sect might have a regiment in Summerbank. This prompted him to have Orb summon the head of the Phoenix Regiment. He wasn't sure if the Phoenix Regiment belonged to the Dragon Sect, and needed to find out. If they were his subordinates, his time in Summerbank would be significantly easier.

About half an hour later, a woman in her thirties entered the bar. Her hair was loosely tied in a bun, and she wore simple sportswear. Jared was surprised; Orb's superior was strikingly beautiful, quite unlike the fearsome figure he'd expected of a gang leader. Two highly skilled men followed closely behind her, clearly formidable fighters—far stronger than Orb.

"Madam…" Orb hurried to greet her.

Phoenix surveyed the chaotic bar. The sight of her injured guards sent her fury boiling.

"Who asked to see me, Orb?" she demanded.

"It's me," Jared replied calmly, rising to his feet.

"Who are you? What wrong have we done?" Phoenix's anger was controlled; she wouldn't resort to violence before understanding the situation.

"You've done nothing wrong," Jared shook his head.

"Then why the trouble at my bar?" Phoenix frowned.

Orb sweated profusely, fearing Jared would betray him. If Phoenix learned the truth, his punishment would be severe.

Fortunately, Jared remained silent. He ostentatiously displayed his Dragon Ring, carefully watching Phoenix for any sign of recognition.

Upon seeing the ring, Phoenix's eyes widened in astonishment, her surprise fleeting but noticeable to Jared. He was secretly pleased and relieved.

Suddenly, Phoenix barked an order, "Everyone leave! Guard all entrances; no one enters without my permission!"

Her men were bewildered, but dared not question her. They quickly helped the injured guards outside and secured the perimeter.

Alone with Jared, Phoenix knelt, paying him respect. "Greetings, My Lord! I am Phoenix of the Dragon Sect's Phoenix Regiment."

Jared wasn't surprised by her action; he'd already seen her recognize the ring. He simply smiled. "You may rise."

Phoenix rose respectfully, awaiting instructions.

"Don't be so formal. Sit!" Jared indicated a chair, pouring her a drink after she sat.

"My Lord, why Summerbank? Why the Phoenix Regiment?" Phoenix asked, puzzled.

"I was compelled to come to Summerbank. As for the Phoenix Regiment, I was curious; I wanted to know if you were affiliated. Do you know our other regiments?" Jared inquired.