Max stepped forward, his hand steady as he pressed it against the rune-inscribed panel. It pulsed once, then flickered with blue light. The screen before the official lit up with lines of data, confirming his identity, origin, and the clause under which he was entering the Middle Domain.
"Your authorization is valid for ten years, renewable based on continued service and merit," the official said after a pause. "You are permitted to stay in the Middle Domain as a servant under Elias and Aria of the Black Tortoise Nation. Any violation of domain law or falsification of status will result in immediate capture or elimination."
Max nodded. "Understood."
The official gave him a look that was neither approving nor dismissive, just tired. "You may go."
As they walked away, the eyes of the crowd followed them. Some sneered. Some were curious. Some ignored him completely. But Max felt the weight of all those gazes, all that quiet judgment—and it didn't bother him at all.
