You gave us quite the twist from the expected, Stever! The Master Grower, confident in the truth rallying her people, had the rug pulled out from under her. In a surprising move, you had the Empire cleverly counter her reveal with a spin on a truth that undermined her supporters' convictions. This was an inspired move, as now the people (who chose their comfort) have more faith in the Empire and any further revolutions will have less of a chance of gaining ground. We're left aching for the Master Grower, left alone in her final hour after having sacrificed so much to help her people.

Loved your ending line!