Awesome. There is much here to love from the vivid descriptions to the stalwart fortitude of the Captain of the Guard. I really like this piece.

The original draft had “especially the King”, and I’m still uncertain which is better.

I think “especially” works better. It’s the direction my own brain tended, at least. Lovely piece that describes the complex nature of politics very well.

Just saw this and I really really like it. So much intrigue and mystery is enveloped in it. :)