Le Roi écorché

The story's atmosphere is so intense and dark — I wonder what inspired the choice to make the setting so gritty and unforgiving.

His decisions are often morally grey, which made me question what I’d do in the same situation. Am I the only one who struggled with sympathizing with him at times?

The detailed setting felt so immersive and unique. I'm curious whether the author envisioned this world from the start or developed it as the story progressed.