Chapter 428:

Had Memphis proudly claimed credit for the achievement, Richard would have gradually pressed the narrative of the "greater good” cornering him, or at least finding an excuse for future actions.

But now, by shifting the credit to others, Memphis had effectively told the government: “The heroes you're looking for are over there—more than 30 of them. Go ahead and honor them. I'm just a regular guy."

An inflation of heroes, a surplus of good citizens.

But Richard was quick-witted. If he couldn’t indirectly take power, he'd try a more direct approach, though first, he had to put on the mask of righteousness.

He walked over to the excited group of 30 people, delivering a long speech full of praise, commendation, and heartfelt emotions, concluding by promising that they would be protected and rewarded by the government.

Of course, if the government wanted to make inroads here, it had to project an image of justice, loyalty, and benevolence. Richard's display wasn’t just for Memphis—it was fo