That Ethan Zhekova misinterpreted his intentions and failed to recognize his good intentions.
Assuming roles reversed between Ethan Zhekova and Adrian Zhekova, with Ethan becoming the victimized party.
Ethan would probably think that he was against helping his case.
The Old Master had no doubt, Ethan would definitely be thinking that way.
Ethan was probably feeling aggrieved himself.
Thinking that the Old Master was biased and sided with Adrian.
Moreover, with Ethan's predisposition to overthink and grow increasingly foolish in his thoughts.
If the Old Master were to let Ethan handle it himself, Ethan might interpret this as a conspiracy?
Or perhaps a challenge?
If he doesn't handle it harshly enough, he won't satisfy himself.
But he fears that if he goes too hard, the Old Master will disapprove, thinking he's too harsh, devoid of brotherly love.
Caught in the middle of such hesitation, it is a pointless and tiresome endeavor.
Not just pointless, but incredibly foolish.