After multiple inspections confirm a man is merely an ordinary human, a powerful lord orders his personal seal prepared. The lord decides to publicly brand the man, stating this 'honor' will teach the man his worthlessness. A subordinate expresses shock, while another questions the necessity. The man is forcibly fitted with the mark, which is then displayed for all to see, declaring his ownership. Unseen, the lord privately insists the man is anything but ordinary, revealing a hidden intensity.