Completed my first playthrough last night! TLDR: slow start, but it was a phenomenal route, and I really enjoyed
I first felt the route started off pretty slow, but in hindsight, I suspect that was intentional, to actually get through the sense of boredom and frustration MC is feeling, and then the plot twist came and there was actually a goal to pursue! And then the slow start makes even more sense considering this route is longer in in-game time as well. So, it was a slow build, but definitely well worth it in the end, when leads to pursue kept piling up to the point we had to actually choose and prioritize. I was a little worried about having to choose between them, but I think it's good to have that kind of challenge. Though, I don't know if I missed it in the chaos, or it was never stated in-game on the path I was taking, the outings with Sir Aurele seem to have stopped without any discussion as to why.
Oh, I also enjoyed how there were callbacks to many other routes -- Leipzel, speedrun of the Rouaine tasks, and another entry to point to discover Leopold's deepest, darkest secret. And I might discover even more crossover in the coming playthoughs, excited to discover those! But was so glad for some of the differences from Guillaume's love route, especially how Frederique stuck around, and MC actually had an entourage! At least she has some friends(ish). Speaking of them, found it interesting how the route was more or less built around the entourage and their families (for better or for worse, for some of the ladies). And finally, we got to work with Mariette!
And still on the topic of character dynamics, was interesting to have a more antagonistic dynamic with Leopold. Didn't always enjoy the cutting words, I have a soft spot for him and I'm just a big softie ooc, but was exciting to see MC being able to (out)match him in wit and cunning and manipulation. And just, how astute she is, reading and judging everyone from afar. And speaking of cutting words, never thought I'd say this, there were scenes I was actually grateful for Francesca's sharp tongue!
Okay, time to speak of the path I took, spoilers ahead. When I began, I intended to romance Guillaume, the original intrigue the loveless route held for me was the "finding love in an arranged marriage" trope. But then with his behavior and MC's ambitions, I decided to keep manipulating him and go for tyrant queen instead (I think I've played the game enough by now to know in advance that's what you'd call the ending!). Also chose to get close to Vesela, hoping to discover the thing that I can hold over Leopold's head. After playing the previous routes, it didn't feel too hard to pursue some other leads and gather up plenty of support. Also managed to get Guillaume to love MC and even when she was asking for divorce, he was all apologetic, letting her have her own house with no complaints and even offering her to keep a dowager princess title. I felt kind of sorry for him at the time, but his reaction to the betrayal... yeah that's exactly why I'm having MC be queen in her own right, not as his wife. It was a sweeping victory, with three small regrets: throwing Albertine and Francesca under the bus and only making friends with Vesela. Then I quick replayed to actually romance her and save my ladies-in-waiting. :) Was very, very happy with that outcome!
Now time to explore more paths and endings, I'll see how many I can collect without the guide. For one, I'm interested in seeing how it changes character dynamics if I actually pick a jilted lover. Might try to see next if I can properly domesticate Guillaume in the 3 in-game weeks, haha. And I'll probably try to save romancing Leo for last, I still look forward to his path. :)
Okay sorry for the ramble! Thank you so much, this route is amazing so far and I'm excited to explore even more!