Hector didn't know why Rowena was so terrified, but he knew she had identified their father's murderer—the same person who had killed the other patriarchs. One family, the Cadens, stood out; they were the only ones with bad blood with the Xaviers and the other three families. The Cadens had been destroyed ten years ago. He said nothing, simply turning to leave.

Lying on the bed, Rowena despaired. She had longed for the Xaviers to reclaim their power, but now knew it was futile. She should be grateful her family was still alive.

"The Black Dragon is terrifying," Rowena mumbled hopelessly. "He's trying to eliminate the Great Four. After what happened ten years ago, I understand why."

Meanwhile, at a military base, the Blithe King, in his five-star uniform, was briefed by his most trusted confidant.

"Sir, several people were murdered last night," the confidant reported, outlining the events.

"Hmm?" The Blithe King's brows furrowed. "Was it the Black Dragon?"

"Highly likely, sir. He's the one Thea saved from the fire ten years ago. His face was badly burned, but he completely transformed his appearance. He ended up on the Southern Plains, becoming a soldier and rising through the ranks. In ten years, he's become the Black Dragon, leading a million-strong army."

Confused, the Blithe King asked, "Does he have a grudge against the Great Four?"

"The incident ten years ago, involving the Cadens' eradication, is closely tied to the Xaviers. The fire at the Cadens' estate involved the Great Four as well." The Blithe King seemed deep in thought. He had only known that James murdered Trent because of Trent's advances on his wife, Thea. He hadn't expected this complexity. Thea had saved James ten years ago, while the Xaviers were responsible for the Cadens' destruction.

"Sir, what should we do? Your succession ceremony is today, but James has created a mess. If we don't act, your reputation will suffer!"

The Blithe King looked bitter. "Act? Should I send an army after the Black Dragon? I don't have the guts. Report this to the higher-ups. Let's see what they say."

"Yes, sir."

"Hold on"

"Is there anything else, sir?"

"Forget it."

After further thought, the Blithe King said, "Cover it up. Find someone to take the blame for James."

"Sir, please reconsider. The Black Dragon resigned and returned to Cansington for revenge. This is just the beginning. We can cover this up once, but not forever. An uproar could erupt. Furthermore, this is under your jurisdiction. If the higher-ups blame someone, the responsibility"

"Do as I say!"

The Blithe King took a deep breath. The Black Dragon, the commander of the Southern Plains, was unmatched in strength and possessed exceptional medical skills. The Blithe King doubted the higher-ups would trouble him. Reporting it might even make them suspect him of accusing the Black Dragon.

"Yes, sir. I'll manage the media." The confidant left.

The Blithe King pondered. The higher authorities knew James' background, yet allowed his return to Cansington and his assignment here.

"What are they trying to do?" The Blithe King exhaled. He couldn't fathom their motives.

(Note: I removed the repeated promotional text. Consider adding a more appropriate author's note or other relevant information if needed.)