Chapter 18: Testing to See If I Have Magic
After leaving the Imperial Mage Department, Inigo made his way back toward the inner city gates, heading straight for the Guard Post where he'd first been processed. His footsteps were brisk but relaxed—his earlier disappointment had faded into anticipation. He'd done all the right steps. Now all that remained was the formality.
Inside the Guard Post, the same receptionist soldier greeted him, already holding a bundle of sealed forms and a leather cord looped through a metal-tagged card.
"Inigo, correct?" the guard asked.
"Yes."
The man passed him the card—a stamped leather badge with his name, status, and "Visitor"
" engraved in fine script beside the insignia of the capital.
"This is your temporary identification," the guard said. "Keep it on you at all times. If you're stopped by a patrol or enter any restricted zone without it, you'll be detained."
"Understood," Inigo said, slipping the badge over his head and letting it rest on his chest.
"One more thing," the guard added. "An investigation unit was dispatched to the Southmoor ambush site this morning. Given your testimony and the fact you're one of the only surviving witnesses, expect a summons in the future. You'll be contacted through the Adventurer's Guild if needed."
Inigo nodded. "I'll cooperate when that time comes."
The guard gave a short nod and returned to his work, already calling the next name.