out of hiding | 1

All loyal subjects of the Myarainés Kingdom are hereby notified by royal proclamation of a ball to be held this very day to locate the remaining Chosen. His Royal Highness Prince Stefan humbly requests the presence of every eligible maiden's company at this momentous event. Formal attire obligatory.

Your Humble Servant,
The Grand Duke

***
"Ameera, isn't this just wonderful?" My mother was waving the invitation around like it was the most valued possession she had ever held; more valuable than even the birth of my younger sister. I on the other hand had been avoiding every Chosen ceremony prior to this as my life depended on it.

...Because it did.