Chapter 371: Josephine Arrives

“I don’t know about the others,” Phoenix said, a cold smile playing on her lips, “but the Phoenix Regiment will definitely fight for a share of the Whitaker family’s properties. In fact, I’ve already secured two of their real estate agencies.”

Zachariah slammed the table, his gaze hostile. “Phoenix, this is preposterous!”

“Why? Do you want to fight?” Phoenix challenged, showing no weakness.

The two men were on the verge of drawing weapons. The other martial arts families watched silently.

Luke stood, attempting to mediate. “All right, that’s enough. Based on the rules, Phoenix is correct. However, this is a special case between the Whitaker and Jantz families. Perhaps a compromise? The Jantz family could relinquish half the Whitaker properties. That would solve everything.”

“Impossible!” Zachariah retorted. “I won’t give up a single penny! I swear I’ll make you pay if you insist!” He was exasperated. He needed the money to purchase herbs for the Crescent Sect.

Luke, usually the alliance peacemaker, found himself stymied by Zachariah’s intransigence. A fight seemed unavoidable.

Bane, who had remained silent, spoke. “Let’s go with the old rules. We’ll compete in the arena!” He rose and left.

“Fine. Meet in the arena in three days,” Zachariah agreed, departing immediately.

“Arena it is! Do I look afraid?” Phoenix scoffed, departing as well.

Luke sighed helplessly, addressing the remaining crowd. “All right. The conference is dismissed.”

The Warriors Alliance Conference, lasting less than ten minutes, ended tensely. Though many martial arts families were dissatisfied, they knew their limitations and remained silent.

Two days later, at Lizbeth’s house, Jared sat at a table laden with food Lizbeth had prepared. For two days, she’d kept him inside, fearing the Jantz family. To her surprise, they hadn’t appeared.

As Lizbeth finished preparing and was about to eat, the doorbell rang. Fear gripped her.

Jared rose, but Lizbeth stopped him. “Sit down. I’ll get it.”

Opening the door, she gasped. “Josephine? Why are you in Summerbank?”

Josephine stood outside, holding fruit. “I was worried about Jared.” She smiled faintly.

Jared rushed to the door, overjoyed at her arrival. “Josephine…”

Josephine ran into his arms. She’d been worried sick in Horington, Summerbank being less safe.

Lizbeth stumbled back, unsure what to do, witnessing their embrace.

“It smells delicious. Did Lizbeth cook?” Josephine asked, eyeing the food.

“Yes, she cooks well. I’ve been enjoying her meals for the past two days,” Jared replied.

(Note: I removed the seemingly out-of-place advertisement at the end.)