Hey, @skullbird.bsky.social , are you aware that inspirational skeletor reposted this?
For a moment or two the old man didn't reply. He was staring at the instruments with the air of one who is trying to convert Fahrenheit to centigrade in his head while his house is burning down.
"Help me," the duke said. "My physicians can't say what ails me, but I've lost all pleasure in what I used to enjoy."
The witch examined him, and paused over his hand.
"Nice ring. It is new?"
"A recent gift from the king. Why? Is it cursed?"
It was made to dampen cruelty.
"No," said the witch.