"Sir Sir, I'm sorry. Please please forgive me," David pleaded, bruised and battered but still begging for mercy.

Suddenly, a subordinate entered, reporting, "Mr. Xander, someone claims to have brought the ransom for the boy."

"Bring him in."

"Okay."

Yoel was led into the basement by several of Xander's men. He saw David suspended from the ceiling, bruised and battered. Yoel's legs weakened, and he almost fell. However, the thought of Thea spurred his courage. He knew of the rumors surrounding Xander—a man loyal to his friends, but not reckless.

Approaching the seated Xander, Yoel offered a cigarette, bending over with a smile. "Hello, Mr. Xander. I'm Yoel Smith. My father is York Smith. You've dined with him."

Xander smirked. "Ha York's son. Yes, I've dined with your father. We're acquainted. But this boy arrogant. He insulted me. I'd look incompetent if I didn't teach him a lesson."

"Mr. Xander, a lesson is deserved, but this boy's sister is my woman. Considering my father's friendship and my personal presence, could you"

Xander's face darkened. He grabbed Yoel's hair. "Your father? A friend? Who does he think he is? Even if he came personally, this brat wouldn't go easily. Eight million."

Yoel had dared to come alone only because he knew Xander kept his word. Otherwise, he wouldn't have dared to come, even with ten lives. He'd hoped mentioning his father would waive the payment. But for Thea, he'd pay.

"Mr. Xander, calm down. I brought the money. But considering my father's relationship, could we negotiate the amount?" Yoel asked tentatively.

Xander released him. "Fine. Five million."

The Smiths were influential. While Xander wasn't afraid, he didn't want trouble, especially with the Blithe King's recent succession. He compromised.

Yoel's heart ached. Five million was a pittance to his wealthy family, but it wasn't his money—his monthly allowance. Yet, for Thea, he'd sacrifice. "Alright, Mr. Xander. Five million. I'll transfer it directly."

"Yes, direct transfer." Xander nodded, gesturing to a subordinate. "Take him to make the transfer."

"Okay."

The subordinate led Yoel. Soon, Yoel returned, and David was released, unconscious from the beating and hanging.

Suddenly, a subordinate rushed in, panicked. "Mr. Xander! We have a problem! Someone attacked our men!"

"What?" Xander raged. This was the Prosperous Dynasty, his territory. Who dared?

"Who is it?"

"Me."

A voice echoed as several men, armed with iron rods and machetes, burst into the basement. Xander saw a stranger who'd beaten his men. His subordinates retreated. This man, fighting his way into the heavily guarded Prosperous Dynasty, was dangerous.

Xander touched his weapon, furious. "Who are you?" He'd worked hard to reach his position, fearing powerful enemies.

"James." An indifferent voice replied.