A shocked silence followed her words.
Carmela raised an eyebrow. "Improved their lives? How in the world does a noble 'improve' a brothel?"
Joy grimaced. "I'd rather not talk about it."
But before anyone could press further, Isabelle smiled brightly and said,
"Oh, I can certainly explain that part."
Joy shot her a deadly look, but Isabelle only laughed softly.
"Oh, don't glare at me like that, Lady Joy. I'm only clarifying the truth for our dear Lady Aqua before she collapses from panic."
Aqua turned toward her immediately, eyes wide with hope.
"Very well." Isabelle began. "It all started a few months ago, when the Young Master decided to take over this entire district."
"Every establishment you see—the taverns, the brothels, the clubs were once owned by various nobles and merchants. Corrupt men who made fortunes by enslaving the women here."
"So, when Young Master announced his intention to purchase them all, everyone thought it was just another power grab."
