Looking at the grim expression on the Emperor's face at the head of the conference table, the ministers in charge of intelligence work were all very cautious. They had just learned what had happened and were now engaged in blame-shifting.
This was not something they would ever take responsibility for themselves. Following the principle of "better you than me," all they had to offer were excuses that distanced themselves from the issue.
One minister spread his hands and showed the most innocent expression: "Why should they think they can pin something like this on us? This matter has absolutely nothing to do with us!"
In any case, he really had not given such an order, and no matter what, such things could not be traced back to him. If you said His Majesty The Emperor was investigating corruption or incompetence, he might be nervous, but investigating this matter? He could speak with confidence.
