"Kaezhlar will argue that Rothgard was enslaving his people," Varnik pointed out.
"That was a necessary action."
"Let him argue," Richardus said.
"The legal principle is clear; only the Ministry of Justice has authority to execute sitting nobles. Whether Rothgard was a saint or a monster is irrelevant to that fact.
The law was broken. That's all that matters."
Hernais stood and moved to a window overlooking the estate grounds.
"And if we succeed? If the trial proceeds to full prosecution?"
"Then Kaezhlar faces years of legal proceedings," Richardus said.
"During which time, he cannot effectively manage Tekkora. His reputation is destroyed. His allies distance themselves to avoid the taint. And most importantly—" he looked directly at Hernais "—questions arise about the legitimacy of the barony's current leadership. Questions that could result in imperial intervention and reorganization."
"Meaning I could petition for control," Hernais finished.
