This morning, as dawn broke, Xavier stealthily approached Ethan while carrying the unconscious Eleanor.
Ethan and his father, who were coordinating the empire's forces at Emperor's request, hurriedly returned upon receiving Xavier's call.
Upon entering his tent, Ethan was shocked to find his sister lying on the bed, gravely injured. Ethan quickly approached Eleanor.
"What happened to her? Why–"
"She's severely injured. But for now, her life will be alright."
Xavier then recounted everything to Ethan from start to finish.
"Damn it! That's why I found Emperor's orders this time very strange! He asked me and Father to inspect and coordinate the knights and wizards he brought here, to divert our attention!" Ethan growled in anger because this time, he was truly negligent.
He suspected something was amiss when Emperor brought so many troops and wizards just to guard the annual hunt.