I’d do well to remember that Marie Chen’s report of First Contact With Andala, aka Proteus, is not my actual book. Though right now both you and I would be forgiven for mistaking it. Strange as this may be, I haven’t as much as started the book proper yet; the one I described at the outset. Instead, I continue with this line of backstory which has gotten out of hand in just the way I like.

You see, there’s something missing from Marie’s version. And it’s not her fault. Marie’s is a fair enough yarn, as I’ve given her a grand old view and the chance to write herself into history. But for all that happens, it is still a bit procedural for me. If that’s the right word. She believes in what she’s saying, and was caught up in it all as her mission went on, but, well, there’s a certain magic her perspective cannot muster. So’s my excuse. I like to think I’ll do a better job yet in Alpha.

Proteus reaches a vital point now that they are at the capital. Because none other than the great Akanai awaits within. He’s a bit of a character, shall we say. Or a fruit loop, as Robin might. He’s certainly eccentric, but also immensely powerful and so respected all the same. I know the nutty king trope has been done plenty often before, but I reckon I can bring something new to it, and Akanai is my only shot. His son is a humourless boy, and ultimately his absent father’s merciless successor. The vicious ups and downs of the dynasty continue on to Alpha, and so it’s right to set them up at the outset. Jocaster has all the sharper bite once you know about Antonaster.

Music wrote this story, as much as me. As there are some songs which describe exactly what I’m looking for; or first define it. Among those I know so far, lies one by the name of In the Court of the Crimson King. It’s a difficult one, not expressly suitable for putting on in the background to the film. But the vision it does make me think of comes in Alpha, rooted in the past we’re just to see in Proteus. Remember, the absurdity in Akanai is not as he is on the surface, but in just how much danger one man can possess.