At the King's Palace…
Ethan sat across from Carson in his study.
"A few days ago," the King began, "when you asked me to leave the matter of the family leaders to you… I didn't expect it to be done this quickly."
"Four missing, five dead.."
He exhaled. "I have to admit, Mr Stark, I'm impressed. So tell me, how did you manage it?"
Ethan went on to give him a version of the story, leaving out certain details for different reasons.
For instance, he did not mention the princess's involvement, so as not to give the king any justification to assume Ethan was using his daughter as he pleased.
He also withheld the existence of the newest member of the Grand Class, Hayley.
What he did disclose was that he had worked alongside powerful casters, who, by mutual agreement, would not have their identities or affiliations revealed. However, he added that Mikael had also been involved.
That Mikael, he clarified, was his butler.
