Leaks, Counter-leaks, Invictus Games in Disarray and "Candid" Pap Shots

In the lead up to King Charles's 75th Birthday, it's Sussex sources versus Palace sources.

The story began innocuously enough. A piece in The Sunday Times on November 5th written by Royal Rota reporter Roya Nikkhah said:

The monarch is clearly relishing flexing his diplomatic muscles and restoring to the role an energy absent in the final years of his mother’s reign, due to her age and mobility issues. It will be a mostly contented King who celebrates his 75th birthday on November 14 with a party with his closest family and friends at Clarence House.

Yet one key guest will be missing. Although it is understood Charles invited his second son to the family gathering, the Duke of Sussex is not making the trip from California. In September, Prince Harry also turned down the offer to spend some time with his father at Balmoral while he was visiting the UK for a charity event at the time of the anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s death.

Two things happened in quick succession.

1. “Sources” close to the Palace denied that any such lavish party for King Charles landmark 75th birthday was taking place.

2. Harry and Meghan’s publicist actually went on the record to deny the story and