Tension hung thick in the air.
It was no longer subtle.
Razor and Guy stood with blades raised, eyes locked. The space between them felt charged, like a spark waiting for permission to ignite.
Kaelis and Ezra did not move.
But neither of them looked away.
"Razor," Kaelis said at last, his tone no longer amused. There was a warning in it now.
"Guy," Ezra said sharply, not raising his voice but hardening it, "whether or not the code allows it, you are standing before a prince."
Guy did not lower his sword.
Neither did Razor.
"You should listen to His Highness," Guy said lazily, tilting his head toward Kaelis while keeping his eyes on Razor. "Isn't that your specialty?"
Razor's nose scrunched faintly. Conflict flashed across his face. His grip tightened.
He glanced at Kaelis.
"Your Highness, they have drawn a blade against us."
"To be fair, you drew yours first," Kaelis replied coolly.
"But—"
"What is this scene so early in the morning?"
