The morning mist had not yet lifted from Ironhold when the letter arrived.
It bore the seal of the royal capital, wax stamped with elegance. Vardon, who was in his study, opened the letter and read it quietly.
The contents were unexpected. The king had invited him to the third prince's seventh birthday.
"My willful youngest son wishes to have a large party, and I decided to indulge him."
That was the reason written, but Vardon knew the king wouldn't bother doing such a thing, especially since it wasn't even a coming-of-age party.
"I have also heard word of your eldest son's recovery and rising promise. I would like to meet him, and since he's also the same age as my second daughter, I think they would have a good conversation."
Obviously, the king wants to see his son, as the rumors of the dragon slaying were spreading far and wide. Still, since the king did not state it outright, that means he either doesn't believe it to be true or is waiting for confirmation.
