Autumn arrived, and the ground brimmed with fallen leaves—like rivers of gold spreading through the streets.

In the wealthy enclave of Kingsward Fringe, a convoy of black luxury sedans swept past the wrought-iron gates of a stately villa. One after another, seven or eight cars rolled in, their glossy exteriors catching the autumn light, exuding command and opulence.

The villa’s staff rushed forward to intervene, attempting to thwart the intrusion, but their ...