Richter strode up the makeshift platform that had just been erected, holding high the parchment letter found on Leon, bearing Harald's seal.
He swept his gaze over the growing crowd of murmuring townsfolk below, drew a deep breath, and began to read in a booming voice.
Naturally, he was not reading the letter's original wording, but a carefully fabricated version authorized by Karl:
"To Lord Karl von Schmidt of Carnford," Richter's voice echoed across the open construction site, drowning out the clamor of the crowd. "I, Harald, chieftain of the Sauron Barbarians, must admit that Carnford's army is peerlessly brave and utterly unbreakable! Our forces attacked again and again, only to suffer devastating losses and flee in crushing defeat!"
The moment these words fell, a stir swept through the townsfolk below, followed by subdued gasps. Disbelief and pride appeared on many faces.
Richter continued, his tone deliberately imitating "terror": "Years of war between our two nations have left countless lives in misery; this was never the wish of my people! I have long heard that Lord Karl is merciful and cherishes life. I beg you to take pity on my people, cease hostilities, and spare us further campaigns! My people are willing to make peace with the Goldflower Kingdom and forge an everlasting alliance!"
He paused, then raised his voice sharply, speaking with "heartbroken" remorse: "To show our sincerity, we have handed over five heinous criminals—shameless traitors who once betrayed Goldflower and defected to my people—for Your Lordship's disposal! Do with them as you please. We ask only that Your Lordship calm your thunderous wrath and convey to the honored Your Majesty our people's sincere desire for peace!"
After finishing, Richter snapped the parchment shut and raised it over his head, shouting, "This is the surrender plea of Harald, leader