"Now more than ever, we need the support of our people!"
Just an hour earlier, Ricky Davis had received word that the Chris Pirates were advancing on Pudora Kingdom Port.
He knew a major battle was about to begin.
And according to reports from the front, the Chris Pirates had arrived in overwhelming force.
The kingdom's army alone probably would not be enough to stand against them.
Winning the support of the people was their best option.
On the Buyeino Platform, Baitdengsi stood in a black cloak.
He called out indignantly, "I'm sure you've all heard the same news I have!"
"An hour ago, the Chris Pirates began approaching our port!"
"Some of you may wonder whether the news is true..."
"I can tell you right now, with absolute certainty, that it is!"
"At this very moment, the Chris is anchored just outside Pudora Kingdom Port."
His face flushed with excitement, Baitdengsi raised his voice. "The Chris has its heavy cannons trained on us!"
"But... the Chris Pirates haven't attacked!"
He paused deliberately, his sharp eyes sweeping over the puzzled faces below.
Then he asked, "Do you know why the Chris Pirates haven't attacked us outright?"
A man below shouted back, "Word has been going around that the Chris Pirates plan to attack tomorrow."
"So maybe they're just getting ready today?"
Baitdengsi gave a soft laugh. "Yes, that's one reason."
"But it isn't the most important one!"
A woman's voice rose from the crowd.
She was one of Baitdengsi's supporters. "Lord Baitdengsi, why haven't the Chris Pirates attacked?"
"Do you know something we don't?"
To his supporters, Baitdengsi was like a god who knew everything!
And Baitdengsi seemed to enjoy playing that part.
He narrowed his eyes and sneered. "Of course I know what the Chris Pirates are plotting!"
"Those