Wow! It sounds like I wrote this story just for you as it suits you so well. I'm really happy, because it was something of a labour of love getting so deeply into each of the characters, working out their motivations etc. I'm also pleased you liked the bard - I did wonder how the format of the fic would go over. I do like writing these rather 'medieval', old-fashioned worlds into which our magical heroes fit so well. Thank you for your lovely comment.