16 Comments
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Ian Dunmore's avatar

You set up the peril so well in this story, as well as the environment where Gautin would get marginalized by his own family. I enjoyed this immensely.

Eric Falden's avatar

Thanks, Ian.

According to Mimi's avatar

I felt the tension in this story from the first sentence and rooted for little Gautin almost immediately. Such a good read!

Eric Falden's avatar

Thanks for reading! Glad you enjoyed it.

Walking Mall Poet's avatar

This story was INCREDIBLE. My eyes were glued to the page, really a home run on this one, thanks for sharing it.

Eric Falden's avatar

Thanks so much!

What Else Can I Do's avatar

To hell with that father who only loves a son who is useful to him! He can keep his grand exclamations of affection and honor. My gosh. 🤬

(Sorry for the ire. This was a great story; my kid interrupted me partway through and I had to try not to act irritated, so you know it was absorbing. But I’m not sure it’s a happy ending, whatever Gautin thinks. 😅)

Eric Falden's avatar

I generally try not to weigh in on the interpretation of my own work—since good art doesn’t railroad the audience’s perception—but I will say that I’m glad you picked up on this. It was meant to be open to varying opinions.

It’s a “happy ending,” because Gautin accomplished his goal and received what he desired; but who has changed? Who has not? I’ll leave it to readers.

Michael S. Atkinson's avatar

This was brilliant. The bit with the rotating scribes so there wouldn't be a break in the transcription was a really nice detail.

Eric Falden's avatar

Thanks so much, Michael. That kind of stuff always preoccupies me, so I’m glad you appreciate it.

Keith Long's avatar

Dude, excellent. Wholly excellent.

Eric Falden's avatar

Thanks, Keith!

George's avatar

This is absolutely fantastic, thank you for sharing :)

Eric Falden's avatar

Thank you for reading, George.

Spectre X's avatar

This came together nicely in ways I wasn't expecting.

Eric Falden's avatar

Happy to hear it!