The first aide continued speaking carefully, choosing his words with caution.
"First, it all began with Count Ethan's purge of slave routes and other illegal operations. He destroyed several underground farms and trade channels that were secretly connected to the Ambrose Family. It damaged a large part of their livelihood."
The Emperor's expression did not change, but his fingers paused briefly on the armrest.
"They were too confident to react at first," the aide added. "They believed he would not dare act directly against them, even if he hated slave trading. After all, he has a known history of opposing such practices."
Another aide stepped forward and bowed slightly.
"However, this sudden move has offset the balance among several noble houses. It was not just a moral stance. It cuts into hidden profits."
A faint smile appeared on the Emperor's lips.
"So they were complacent," he said quietly.
