The military was dispatched. They sealed off the Prosperous Dynasty and arrested many people. The news caused an uproar in Cansington.

"The Blithe King sure is enthusiastic! The first person he went after was Xander," someone said.

"I heard Xander was involved in shady dealings in the past," another chimed in. "After years of cleaning up his act, he finally started a legitimate business. However, many lives were lost, and there's a lot of dirt on him."

"Haha, it's satisfying! Black Wind Xander has finally been arrested! Even if he escaped gunfire this time, he'll surely spend the rest of his life in jail!"

The people of Cansington gossiped about the events. All the major families instructed their members to remain low-profile and avoid trouble. Association with the Blithe King's targets could cause serious problems.

At Thea's family home, the entire family sat tensely on the living room sofa. No one spoke. Thea sat slumped, tears streaming down her face, looking wretched. Seeing her distress, Gladys felt guilty. She had suffered much humiliation because of Thea over the years, unable to hold her head high in public. Yet Thea had always been well-behaved and obedient.

"Thea, I had no choice," Gladys said. "We can't save your brother through Yoel's connections unless you divorce James. You need to think about your brother, not just yourself. Yoel is a much better choice than James. I've learned from my mistakes and don't want you to suffer my fate. I don't want you living the rest of your life with your head down."

Thea wept as Gladys repeated the demand.

Knock! Knock! Knock!

Someone knocked at the door.

"Alyssa, answer the door," Gladys instructed.

"Okay, Mom."

Alyssa opened the door to find a distressed middle-aged man in a loosened suit, a few buttons undone. He carried someone on his back.

"D-David?" Alyssa exclaimed, recognizing David on the man's back. "Quick, come in!"

The man, York, entered carrying David. After a time, David regained consciousness. Though severely beaten, Xander had spared his bones. York placed David on the sofa.

"David!" Alyssa cried, bursting into tears.

Benjamin poured water for York. "Thank you for bringing David home," he said.

"You must work for Mr. Smith," Gladys said. "Where is he?"

York took a deep breath, calmly assessing the situation. James' influence extended to the Blithe King himself, yet the Callahans were unaware of James' true identity. He chose not to reveal it. This would ensure the Smiths' safety while potentially gaining the favor of someone powerful.

"My incompetent son was beaten by Xander," York explained. "He suffered minor injuries and needed hospital treatment, so I brought Mr. Callahan home for him."

The family was stunned. 'Incompetent son'? This was York Smith?

"Youmay I ask your name?" Gladys asked incredulously. "Are you Mr. York Smith, chairman of Smith Group?"

"Please, call me York. Yes, I am," he replied.

"Ah! Mr. York! Please, have a seat," Gladys exclaimed, astonished that he had personally brought David home. Turning to Thea, she said, "Thea, what are you doing? Greet your uncle."

"Uncle," Thea said, rising to greet him.

(The promotional text at the end was removed as it was not part of the original passage.)