Tension in the Forest

The forest was quiet, save for the rustling of leaves and the occasional call of a distant bird. The morning sun filtered through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. It would have been peaceful, almost serene, if not for the tension crackling in the air between the two princes.

Eirik's eyes were locked on Kaelix, his heart pounding in his chest. Of all the things he had expected, this was not one of them. Kaelix's accusation hung in the air, heavy and suffocating, leaving Eirik scrambling for a response that would defuse the situation. But nothing he could say felt adequate.

"There's nothing," Eirik said finally, his voice tight, strained. "Sadiki is my guard. He's loyal to me, and I trust him. That's all."