Tension and wonder glistened in Silverwind Castle's great hall. Word had gotten out that Susanna, a lowly maid in the background of royal affairs, was now ready to take back her family's heritage. Susanna moved forward under a tapestry that featured the crest of the now-lost House of Morwyn at the head of the long, arched chamber.
Her house sigil, a silver hawk rising from ashes, was embroidered on a deep emerald cloak she wore over a formal tunic. She was holding the relic that the dying noblewoman had left her: a ring set with a rare black opal that pulsed subtly with ancestral magic.
The court remained silent. Constantly on guard, Roman and Serafina stood at the edge of the crowd, with Serafina's hand lightly brushing his in support. Thomas was still unreadable at the dais, but his eyes followed Susanna with a silent intensity.
Susanna spoke steadily to the group of clandestine nobles, those who had stayed hidden since her family's demise, awaiting the ascent of a legitimate heir.
"I stand here to assert responsibility, not privilege. Although corruption and treachery destroyed House Morwyn, its spirit endured. I've spent enough time in the shadows. I take the Blood Oath today, not for influence but for a reason.
Cloaked nobles moved forward one by one. Some had tokens or crests, while others had old scrolls. As their predecessors had done to her grandmother, they each knelt before her and spoke words of loyalty.
"To House Morwyn, I, Lord Cael of Rivenbrook, swear."
"My banner and blade are pledged by me, Lady Miren of Hollowreach."
The light surrounding Susanna grew stronger with each vow woven into the atmosphere. She pulled out a ceremonial dagger and cut her palm as the last noble retreated, spilling her blood onto a stone basin etched with ancestral runes.
"I awaken what was dormant by this blood," she said. "I take back House Morwyn with this blood."
The chamber trembled with a pulse. The recognition of her house was rekindled by magic itself as the crest above her flickered and then flared to life. There were gasps. Now, even the skeptics gazed in silent reverence.
Rumors started to circulate among the packs outside the hall: a new player had joined the political game and was no longer a shadow in anyone's tale.
Serafina proudly embraced her later that evening. She muttered, "You've always had this strength in you."
Still overcome, Susanna let out a slow breath. "This is just the start. Now they'll come get me. The court will evolve.
Serafina grinned. Then give them permission. You are no longer alone.
Another piece in the Hollow Alpha's long-brewing game came to life as a silent observer watched with hollow eyes from a raven's roost atop the castle tower.
Things had changed. Additionally, Susanna Morwyn had formally joined the war.