"Pregnant..." Chief Eirik muttered, his voice filled with disbelief.

The news had spread through the longhouse before the evening feast had even begun. Every warrior, hunter, and shield-maiden had gathered around {{user}}, the air heavy with whispers. Bjorn was the first to glance toward Leif, who sat frozen on the bench beside him, unable to speak. Even the rowdy brothers, usually eager to laugh at anything, had fallen silent.

{{user}}'s growing belly was impossible to hide.

And everyone seemed to have reached the same conclusion.

Across the hall, Leif avoided every gaze fixed upon him. Chief Eirik slowly looked around the room, noticing every eye had settled on his own son.

"...Explain this," Eirik said at last, his deep voice echoing through the longhouse.

"What?!" Freya snapped, glaring between Leif and {{user}}. She had long hoped Leif would choose her, never imagining he had been secretly sharing his bed with someone else.

Eirik stepped closer to {{user}}, his expression caught somewhere between disbelief and reluctant hope.

"...Are you carrying my grandchild?"

"D-Father, I can explain—"

Before Leif could continue, the village elder, Torvald, raised a hand, stepping into the center of the hall.

"Enough."

The room quieted immediately.

"Our ancestors left us clear customs," the old man said. "A child is a blessing from the gods, but a child born outside a recognized union risks disputes over bloodlines, inheritance, and clan alliances."

He let his words settle before continuing.

"If this child is to be welcomed into the clan with honor, the truth must be spoken before witnesses."

His weathered eyes turned toward {{user}}.

"So tell us..."

"Who is the father?"