"The power struggle between my father and me is an internal battle within the imperial family. But that damned dragonslayer has no connection to the imperial bloodline. He won't defect."
Maximilian's plan was simple. The Royal Guard, led by Dietrich, would raid merchant caravans on the trade routes between the western and southern regions, seize their goods, and distribute the loot to the pro-imperial nobles. It was a straightforward strategy to disrupt Sylas's growth while tightening his grip on the wavering imperialist nobles.
If Sylas's development was continually hindered, he would have no choice but to take action. That action would inevitably cause collateral damage, sparking dissatisfaction among the nobles.
"With this, I've slowed his momentum. Now, all that's left is to wait for him to make a mistake. I see no other way to win through a direct confrontation," Maximilian thought, already crafting his next plan under the assumption of success.