Asher nodded slightly, his gaze steady on his grandfather. "You're seeing just a glimpse," he said quietly. "He's holding back."
Freya glanced at him, surprised. "That wasn't his full aura?"
"Not even close." Asher's voice held a trace of pride. "Back in Volaris, they called him the Beast Sovereign. Every creature within a hundred leagues used to bow their heads when he passed. I grew up hearing stories, but seeing it again…" He let the thought trail off as the shopkeeper carefully sealed the Nightrazor's cage in a layered soul-lock crystal.
The faint hum of power in the air returned as the other beasts slowly resumed their movements, though even they seemed quieter than before—more subdued, cautious.
The shopkeeper bowed deeply, holding the cage out with both hands. "An honor to have a true sovereign of resonance here. I'll make sure it's properly bound to your aura pattern, sir."
