The Emperors stared at Ethan in complete shock. For a few moments, none of them seemed to understand what had just happened. They had expected hesitation, negotiation, or perhaps even a demand for a larger share of the territory.
They had never expected a straight rejection.
Ethan looked at their stunned faces and gave a small sigh before speaking.
"Thanks for considering me to hand over the Empire, but sorry, I refuse."
He leaned back slightly and continued in a calm voice, "I don't want that shit. You see, I like to avoid troublesome matters. I already have my hands full with other things, and I don't have time to take over all this, so I refuse. You can divide the territory as you wish."
A deep silence prevailed for a moment.
The Emperors looked at one another with their jaws slightly open. Even Queen Ophelia seemed unable to respond immediately. The atmosphere inside the room became strangely awkward as everyone tried to process Ethan's words.
