Asher reached into his coat and pulled out a small, black token etched with golden runes—its surface glowing faintly with old Magnus family authority.
The guard's eyes widened as the token floated gently into the air between them, the runes activating on their own.
"By the ancestral right of direct lineage," the token intoned in an ancient voice, "Asher Magnus, bloodborn of the Third heir, son of Selene Magnus, is recognized and honored. Identity confirmed."
The guard stiffened as the words echoed across the old training ground. For a moment, silence reigned.
Then his knees buckled, and he dropped to one knee, bowing his head low.
"Young Master Asher…" he breathed, disbelief still coloring his voice. "It's true… The lost son of Lady Selene has returned…"
He raised his head, eyes trembling with a mix of awe and reverence. "You were the most gifted of your generation. They said you vanished. Many believed you dead. But you've come back…"
