Theodore signed the first set of papers by late afternoon. The new will placed the manor and main lands into a trust that required two signatures to sell: the elder's and a named successor chosen in writing. He named Tristan Mendez as successor.
"He deserves it," he said.
The steward and two neutral witnesses signed. Tristan acknowledged that he was the successor. Kim filed duplicates for the court in a sealed pouch. Mira logged the time and place.
Theodore asked for water, drank, and handed the cup back to a servant. He lifted the pen again to add instructions about the vault. His hand shook once, then steadied. He set the pen down.
"I will state this now while my mind is clear," he said. "My son used my name without permission and emptied a vault. He is hereby cut off."
Tara stood in the doorway, listening without speaking. Tristan could not read her face.
