"So, you're saying that while our relationship with Count Bill may sour, the imperial family's ties with the Corleone lineage will remain unaffected?"
"Precisely. Even if the relationship worsens, would Count Bill truly dream of rebellion? At most, he might express some discontent."
The Emperor mulled this over, recalling his encounters with Bill Corleone. A paragon of chivalry, Bill strictly adhered to the contract between lord and Emperor. Unless the imperial family actively attacked the Corleones, rebellion was unlikely.
"But Sylas Corleone is a different matter," Maximilian continued. "He has openly displayed ambition, extending his influence to the West, North, and even the church, planting his people strategically."
"That much I've heard."
Indeed, Maximilian's report had detailed as much. Unbeknownst to the Emperor, the report was heavily influenced by Maximilian's own biases, as it came from an emissary appointed by him.