In terms of character and setting, this is an impeccable fic. I have one small complaint about it; I'm not an enthusiast of the fractured narrative device that relies on flashbacks. Of course, that's not an objective problem on your part and it's difficult to see how you would have been able to make the point-counterpoint so smoothly otherwise.

In this one story you've explored Nick's competencies more thoroughly than you have at any point since at least "The Proposal" and probably "Not Important." Having a solid cameo from Dava at last is a treat for the dedicated fan, and Gyan is, as always, a strong and intriguing supporting character to bring along.

But in many ways, this is also Gadrios' story, and he merits some more thorough expostulation. Part of it, I suppose, is that you've written a large body of work that has various passing commentary and occasional appearances from him, but it's impressive that such an archetypal figure (indeed, I would say that there's something vaguely Biblical about your depiction of prideful kingship) avoids that pitfall and remains entirely complex. Part of that is simply getting multiple perspectives on him, but what really brings him to life is the fact that Nick has never- not since we've known him that is- actually been entirely sure about his father. Watching him struggle to not assuage his ego by suppressing his better judgment, and his knowledge that displays of unthinking rage are inherently unbalanced, is an incredibly moving portrait.

This is a very rich and timely story to fully address the major chink in Nick's defenses and it's a pleasure to read.

Great story. The whole concept with Nick's journey has a coming-of-age story to it. Symbolic yet not contrived either.

I haven't been quite fond of Nick, yet you never fails to write a fantastic portrait of him. So stubborn and locked onto certain ideas, he misses what's in plain sight. It feels good to hear him come to realise he can't copy something he is not.

The bit with Dava was splendid. Just the right amount of creepiness. And that line was more than little forebodding.