Yes, this is an Author's Note, I am genuinely sorry if you thought this was an actual update. I hate it when this happens too, believe me. However, this means that I do not actually do an AN unless I feel it is important.
A recent review from an unknown Guest has gone against a request that is not only in my profile, but I'm pretty sure I put it in the beginning of all my stories: 'constructive flames only please!' I even said please. While I immensely appreciate it when people take the time to review, and am willing to take flames, I only do so if there is something constructive in them. There was not. As promised in my profile, if you are reading this Guest, "Piss off."
That said, while there was no written constructive criticism, this review did bring to my attention a writing quirk I have that I might want to mention. (This will be included in my profile as well hereafter.)
In regards to this particular story: yes I know it's a lot of characters. But this started as an old story, and when I was uploading the first chapters I saw no reason to change it. Now I am simply remaining on course. Also, please not the "Includes multiple pairings, will do spin offs for them if requested" bit on the description. While I will narrow the focus as the chapters go on to focus on Alice and Alfred with brief mentions of the others as it fits, I do feel that it gives a taste of just what all Alice has to juggle. As a leader of any sort of large group and/or expanse of land, there are a hundred and one things to worry about and take into account. If this many of her subjects are in the area, yes she's going to keep tabs on them, but as things smooth out and the risk factor goes down she will pay less attention. It struck me as a realistic thing. Contrary to popular belief, being a princes isn't all jewels and pretty gowns.
It was also mentioned that it isn't realistic that all these couples would work out. While I am a realist, I was raised on Disney, okay? I'm a believer in happy endings. If a story is characterized as a 'Tragedy' I won't be reading it, sorry. Come hell or high water, my characters get their happy ending. While I do try to make it realistic, this is my ultimate goal. Sue me. Hell, if the 'villain' wasn't all that bad they might even get a semi-happy ending. Come on, a good villain you love to hate either deserves a fitting end or, if they were one of those misunderstood villains, some sort of contentment, am I right? No? Don't like don't read, folks.
If you actually read all that, thank you. Next time it will be a real update with Alice and Alfred at the center, promise.
EF 13 out, peace!