I Died and Became a Noble's Heir

The exquisite fabrics and sophisticated styling of his attire, more suited for social gatherings at a villa than the rigors of a military stronghold, accentuated his youth and his apparent incongruity with the setting, even beyond what his years might otherwise imply.

Brutusʼs voice rumbled across the courtyard, deep and carrying enough that every soldier present could hear clearly despite not being shouted. ”So you are the young lord who is too afraid to lead his own men?”

The question hung in the air with palpable gravity, an indictment veiled in disdain that made several soldiers uneasy.

Laurenceʼs mouth opened, words tumbling out in a rush of defensive explanation. ”I... thatʼs not entirely fair, you see, the situation was complicated, and I had administrative duties that required my attention, and the Captain is perfectly capable of handling military matters without my direct...”

”Shut up.” Brutusʼs interruption was flat, cutting through Laurenceʼs rambling with force that made the young lordʼs jaw snap closed involuntarily. ”You are a waste of space. What is your name, trash?”

Laurence blinked, confusion mixing with his fear as he processed the question. ”I... Iʼm Young Lord Bale, heir to the Bale family holdings and rightful ruler of this territory by hereditary...”

Brutus stood up abruptly, the movement was smooth despite his massive size, rising from the sandbag throne to tower over everything in the courtyard.

He stepped forward, closing the distance between himself and Laurence in two strides that covered ground faster than the young lord could process.

Then Brutus lowered his head, bringing his face down to Laurenceʼs level, close enough that the steam from his nostrils washed across the young lordʼs features with each breath.

The metal ring in his nose was inches from Laurenceʼs face, close enough to see the intricate craftsmanship that had gone into its creation.

”You are weak and an embarrassment,” Brutus stated, his voice carrying absolute certainty that brooked no argument.

”I see no lord in front of me. I see a coward who hides in a villa while soldiers die defending territory he inherited but never earned.”

His gaze bored into Laurenceʼs with intensity that made the young lord take an involuntary step backward. ”What is your name, human?”

The emphasis on the last word made it clear that Brutus wasnʼt asking for a title or position.

He wanted his actual name, the identity beneath the inherited status.

Laurenceʼs resistance crumbled completely, his voice barely above a whisper as he answered. ”Laurence Bale.”

Brutus remained motionless for several seconds, steam continuing to hiss from his nostrils as he studied the cowering human in front of him.

Then his consciousness reached along the Soul Link connecting him to Jack, thoughts and awareness interfacing with his masterʼs mind across the distance that separated them.

Jackʼs mental voice was clear despite being hours away. ʼOpen your hand. Give him the item. All he has to do is sign.ʼ

Brutus straightened slightly, his massive right hand extending palm-up as reality rippled above his fingers.

A portal materialized. It was a small tear in space that glowed faintly with the same energy that powered Jackʼs various abilities.

The scroll dropped through the opening, falling six inches before landing perfectly in Brutusʼs waiting palm.

The portal closed immediately, leaving no evidence it had ever existed except for the contract now resting in the minotaurʼs hand.