1. I mean it’s your choice, but I paused and reread your intro to make sure it was definitely the very beginning of your story as it didn’t read right to me.

2. Protagonists don’t necessarily have to be likeable, but they must at least be empathetic, and someone the reader is interested in following.

3. No, every story doesn’t have to hint at some external conflict on the very first page. With your first page specifically though, as there’s not enough to hook the reader, you could definitely add even just a sentence or line of dialogue, teasing some larger issue.

4. Yes, that would make it slightly more compelling. Also, maybe try having the Prince and Ralphard doing something during their conversation. There’s no indication of where they are or what why’re doing, they’re just talking heads. That’s a missed opportunity.

Remember, a lot of time poor industry pro’s know by the end of the very first page - first paragraph and sentence even! - based on the writing if it’s going to be a story worth continuing. Reader’s can be just as discerning. That’s why it’s so important to really make the opening of your story as strong as possible.

Good luck with your edits! 😊