Pulling the strings of fate

The forest stood still, the trees towering like silent witnesses at the scene. 

The guards surrounding the carriage watched Aric closely, their weapons at the ready, their bodies taut with tension. Yet, he stood there—calm, unbothered, and utterly unmoving. It was unnerving. A single man blocking their path. 

One of the guards finally broke the silence, his voice steady but tinged with uncertainty.

 "Prince… what is it you're doing here?"

Aric tilted his head slightly, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "I thought I made that clear," he replied, his tone as even as the still air around them. "I'm stopping you from going any further toward the capital."

The guard's grip on his weapon tightened. "With respect, my lord, our orders are clear. Our journey must not be halted—not even by you."