Thank you for sharing your thoughts, and the kind words!
I try not to get too direct about Current Thing, but it seems to be a common concern in the world today from many friends I've talked to in different countries - loving your country but recognizing it's doing awful shit, being unsatisfied with what it is but not having the knowledge or power to change it... it's at least easier to explore those questions from a fantasy setting. I don't want to preach, that's why I give the MC choices for the important moments, but I think they're subjects worth considering and coming to your own decisions on.
Referencing trust/affection events is fun when it makes sense, I try not to go overboard with it but it makes sense to do sometimes. Aspasia has some great events of that type, she really forces MC to think about a lot of things. Siofra and Ina also hit similar vibes, with different themes.
Ashley is great, and idk i you've done Sam's Badon date (affection 14, I think?) I'm really proud of that one. Not as much for the sex stuff as the date itself.
Thank you again for taking the time to write all that, and I hope you enjoy what you have left!