Everywhere men sat shackled in sorrow, expecting the worst, wishing often he and his kingdom would be conquered.
When you think in such a negative way, then it can stay dark. Each man sat in sorrows and the more the negative thoughts crept in, they seemed to be okay with worse outcomes and even settle for their kingdom to be conquered.
Her love was her bane, it banished sleep. That passed over, this can too.
Hard times will come, that can seem difficult to get through, however, it did and will. It just might take time.
“but sometimes we’ve got to face our problems head-on, rather than running away from them.”
The case worker was denying the kid of "escapism" and you can see how hard this librarian is fighting for this kid.. A picture I assume that child is feeling: https://images.app.goo.gl/Y3dmYzxvHwbgFNudA Although the social worker is trying to drag him into all of that like in that picture.
t honestly there are so many typos most people give up before he even finds the portal. Not this kid, though. He pulled it off
The author really makes a point about the dedication this kid has to this story; even though it isn't so popular or well-written, this kid seems drawn to the story.