The Fear of the Backstab

Earlier today, as the King was walking down the path towards his breakfast, a thought was forced on him. He could hear footsteps close behind and was soon filled with dread. Someone wanted to kill him. Someone who probably was going for his dagger in this very moment. It was a lovely, sunny day and the greenery was beautiful around the small path he was walking on. Everything had been fine until the sound of these footsteps suddenly intruded on his mind. He had been fearing for this moment for a long time. He decided to try and keep his calm and threw a glance behind him. There was walking a man, seemingly with no dagger in hand, seemingly minding his own business. “Looks may deceive” thought the king smugly and was wondering how to best defend against his attacker. Up ahead the path was widening to fit at least two people walking side by side. The king picked up the pace and once he reached the wider path he decided to face his fear. He stepped aside and met his pursuer head-on. Much to his disappointment, the man behind him didn't so much as look as the King, as he quietly passed by, seemingly occupied with his own thoughts.

After the man had passed, the King felt hopelessly silly. Why didn't I just say 'good morning'? Why waste so much energy on the Fear of the Backstab, instead of enjoying his day and spreading a positive feeling to his fellow humans? Were they all this frightened of each other? Did they read so many foul stories that they stopped trusting each other entirely?

Why, wasn't that a saddening prospect.