The price of betrayal (Jack and Ashley) novel Chapter 581

The arrogance that once defined the Norberg family had long since faded.

It was one thing for the others to lose, but for Hound to be defeated? And so quickly? That was something they simply couldn't accept.

Vernon's expression had turned an ominous shade of gray. He was on the verge of going mad as he stared at Owen and Hound, both now hanging in disgrace.

"Who can tell me just what the hell is going on here? Owen's weak. So his getting captured, I can accept. But Hound? A Tiger Ranking powerhouse, taken down in mere moments? That's unthinkable! And this Scarlet—the one who struck with such ruthless precision—who the hell is he? Speak! Tell me everything you know!"

For the first time in years, Vernon felt the weight of true crisis bearing down on him.

If things continued unfolding this way, there would be no escaping the danger for the entire Norberg family.

The others exchanged uneasy glances, but no one could answer his question.

Through gritted teeth, Geoffrey said, "Dad, we underestimated Nolan's strength. In truth, we should have seen this coming long ago. When we first learned that Fang had allied with Nolan, we should have realized that something was off. After all, with Fang's abilities, there was no way he could have driven Mr. Lynch away so quickly back then.

"There had to be factors at play that we weren't aware of. And now, it's clear that this unexpected variable is Scarlet. As for Mr. Lynch's defeat, I'm afraid Nolan was involved behind the scenes all along! This Scarlet… He must be the 'Scarlet Phantom' that was rumored to have appeared within Fang's forces. Dad, we miscalculated. Nolan has subordinates stronger than Hound!"

Everyone already knew this, so it was pointless to repeat it.

Vernon's expression was absolutely grim. He clenched his teeth and said, "Then what now? Are we just going to sit here and let them walk all over us? Don't forget, we're already at the point of no return—either they die, or we do! In this situation, how do we turn the tables?"

"Even if the ones they send aren't the strongest, their presence alone represents the Benton family. Nolan might not fear us Norbergs, but would he really be audacious enough to cross the Benton family? I mean, that's the Bentons we're talking about!"

As soon as he said that, the Norberg family members around him all voiced their agreement.

He was right—who would dare disrespect the Benton family?

Especially in the five southeastern states, where their influence was nearly absolute. They might not rule with an iron fist, but they were close enough.

And with a Dragon Ranking powerhouse standing behind them, such a top-tier family wasn't someone just anyone would dare to provoke.