Handy was not an idiot, nor was he that bad of an actor to be unaware of other people's' perceptions or how they could be manipulated. He had learned a lot standing behind the throne in Joachim's court: the intricacies of interpersonal interactions and intrigue; the subtle jockeying for power and prestige, recognition, and renown; the clashing of ideals and cynicism. The mental acuity necessary to juggle propriety, humility, ambition, and boldness in conjunction with the dizzyingly complex web of people, personalities, and positions was astounding at times. He had also learned, much to his own surprise, how much he enjoyed seeing it all play out.