I see that you have taken literally what @f3nix often says, namely: "subverting the story completely". Some elements remain: the Moloch, the bud ... but the whole context changes.
I would have liked if you had also subverted the limit of words and given a final to this story. I have the curiosity to see who will win between the hysterical despot and the rebels.
I'm really doing my best to NOT subvert the story. Most of the time (or at any time - ha), I'm not understanding the story itself. I look for words that seem to be clues, do some research, and write. I'm lost in the dark. I would love some pointers and things to think about.
I see the thing you bring up here in the way I comment as well, but I don't know how to go about fixing it. I do read some comments to gather ideas on what I can say in the future or even at that time.
I agree about this ending of mine. I reached the word limit and needed to find a way to end. I do think of endings as another point to a new beginning. It is a continuous circle.