Final critique: Your story gave an answer to the question that's been nagging many fans familiar with the lore: what would happen if the Concordat had won? Instead of taking us the safe path, in a Guardian's eyes, you showed us the story of a normal man raised in a City ruled by Lysander. It was both thrilling and tragic, with hope interspersed throughout. I didn't see the end coming, but it offered closure on all the important points...absolutely. Writing definitely improved as it progressed, but that's always to be expected. Very glad to have read this, and someone would have to work pretty hard to make it better. Bump!