A story that packs this much punch in this small a space deserves tons of reviews. I cannot pass by without leaving one. This is poignant without being cloying, powerful without being overwhelming, and just... astonishingly, refreshingly wonderful. I wonder if you could be coaxed into writing something from Veld's POV when he realizes JUST what those words must have done to an unloved son... Thank you so much for this. I love dissecting Rufus's angst--and this is excellent.