[quote=@Earnest Evans]
<Snipped quote by MonsieurShade>

Of course I understand that, I like the powers these characters are coming out with. I want Avalai's powers to keep with a static "mood", you know? I expected either a sadistic queen who keeps a group of happy, willful minions through legitimately good benefits, or a sadistic queen who keeps her minions loyal through fear, threats, and [i]literal[/i] brainwashing. I'm just not sure which side [@ReaptheMusic] wants to stick with. Is she a good boss, or does she order her minions to fight to the death on a whim? Does she give them a chance to unwind and party, or do they stay close to her, eyes dulled and muscles tensed?
[/quote]

But the combination of both is the darkest answer of all!
I'd vote for the literal brainwashing + lying to herself about it.
They play and have fun but it's all just because she makes them do those things, so she doesn't have to admit to herself she is forcing these people using her blood. Like a mental self defense mechanism. Deep down she knows full well she's a tyrant, but she'll make them praise her over and over again until she herself believes she's a fair and just monarch.

Though I must admit I'd like that path best because it's dark as hell and provides a starker contrast to the comedy.
[b]I enjoy dark comedy a little too much sometimes.[/b]
Which is why I'm having Like poke at the sore spot. It allows Avalai to explore this story arc further, while it fits well for Like because he is a trickster archetype.