#Because if Tahariel goes to Meriburn then a few Irekoli might go with to dissuade people from making moves against him

[soulsxng]

The invitation envelope is sealed with blue wax, the outline of the Meriet royal seal carefully pressed into the the center. The invitation itself consists of a single letter that reads:

❝The kingdom of Meriburn cordially invites you to join them in celebrating the Festival of the Blue Moon. We humbly look forward to your presence in ushering in a new lunar season that is set to begin on at . We advise that you dress in light, airy clothing and have footwear that will not be damaged by any amount of water. We also advise that you arrive by sunset on the first day of the festivities in order to fully experience the welcoming ceremony.❞

Along the bottom of the letter, the words “Please dip in water and turn over.” is written in neat lettering along the bottom of the invitation card. Once done, the rest of the letter continues as follows:

❝An additional, private gathering will be held at the Aichon Palace throughout the entire event. Overnight accommodations will be provided to all guests with this invitation. We advise you keep it in a safe place, to bring it with you on your travels, and to present it to castle staff upon arrival. Your host, Princess Cassandra Tetrarch of Meriburn❞

(for those that are attending the Meriburn party!)

@sansloii

"It looks like she was able to get it approved, after all!" Ezra's face is lit up as he looks over the invitation. Reading it once, then again, before looking to his father and Evan with a grin. "Last year when I went to the festivities, it was amazing, but if this celebration is going to be as big as it sounds, then I'm sure it'll be even better. You'll both be able to make it, right? She'd be really happy to see you both!"

Of course, he knew that having all three of them away from Exulan at once was a bit risky, but...when was the last time they were all able to enjoy a festival together that wasn't in their own kingdom? That wasn't something that they had to organize and upkeep throughout the duration of the events?

"We don't all have to stay the entire time, but...I think it would be nice."

- - - - - -

"We're going to Meriburn...? Why?"

"Alsina is busy with her research, so Sivel asked if I'd like to accompany him. I'd rather not leave you three behind."

The three knew that tone. Baphomet thought that they might find Nesa there...and if that was the case, he wouldn't have to hesitate on taking them back home again. Not to mention that he was worried after the four of them...ever since the Aegis, their parent had barely let any of them out of his sight.

Admittedly, none of them seemed all that excited about the celebration, but...

"I'll go. Some of our friends will probably be there too, yeah? It'll be a nice change of pace."

- - - - - -

"...Are you completely certain that you don't mind watching them, Antale? I was at Vanystea's party; Raelin and Thelrin are perfectly capable of attending this celebration in my stead--"

"They're mine too, Lea...you say that as though I shouldn't have to watch after them-- just like you've done every day that I've been gone, in Ahnia"

Gone working. Eleare didn't even have to say it. The look that they gave Antale said it all for them. Though really, most of this was just for show. It had nothing to do with the kids. Nothing to do with "inconveniencing" Antale...

Going to Meriburn meant that they were guaranteed to at least run into Roderick's youngest son...if not Roderick himself. Something that Antale surely knew already, as well.

Ugh, and he was giving them that look. Apparently, they'd have to go looking for some more appropriate attire...dammit all.