True kings are a rarity, Rosella. In my world, they're all but forgotten and those that wear crowns upon their heads or would claim royal blood are little more than figureheads that stand on ceremony and do nothing else besides. Men of influence and power and honor have been relegated to the history books, passed into legend like fairy tales.

[ When Nigel speaks these words, they come more quickly and more surely than any other point he's made thus far. Where once he was still and occasionally stoic, he is now animated and bright eyed. A spread smiles across his face and there is color rising in his cheeks and in his lips once more. It's as if the topic flushes him with new life and enthusiasm in such a way that no other topic can. ]

That you have lived and breathed such things. [ Nigel shakes his head, looking somewhat amazed. ] Is truly worth something great indeed.