52

"I can get you in," you say. "Why not? It'll be the party of the year. Food and wine flowing like water, rich doublets and gowns, a veritable inferno of candles to light all that gloomy granite…"

"And I can finally look the man who killed my mother in the eye."

"Of course." The party can only benefit from the introduction of Idris's long-lost heir bent on vengeance, you feel. If nothing else, it's likely to be a night to remember.

"Thank you," Salar says, clasping your arm warmly. "You've brought me this far. I won't forget that you helped me when this is over."

You'll have Salar's gratitude, at least. And more than likely, an interesting story to tell.

It's probably an extremely bad idea to let Salar attend the Midwinter celebration without being there yourself, if only so that you'll be able to tell the truth of what happens from overheated rumor later.

Perhaps at the party you can find out more about Salar's claims. And if you want answers to any other questions about the royal family or the curse or who came up with the brilliant idea of commissioning an unperformable play about the King of Icemere in the first place, getting into the party is your best chance of finding those answers.

The only slight problem is that you haven't received an invitation. A minor matter, which can surely be easily overcome. You've made a favorable impression with Falathar. That might be good for an invitation? It's a small enough favor to ask.

You send a note but receive no reply. Probably Liathar and Falathar are both busy with preparations. It's possible that your social calendar isn't the most important thing on either of their minds.

By time night is falling, if you haven't perfected a plan, at least you have some inkling of one.

This is a one-time performance, which deserves a fitting costume.