Chapter 12 – A Difficult Decision
Gharib pushed forward through a dense forest, drawing closer to a border settlement encircled by towering wooden walls. At its gate stood a line of guards—
most bore the signs of strength granted only by consuming human flesh.
As Gharib attempted to pass, one of them blocked his path with a sharp tone:
"What are you doing here?"
He replied in a whisper, barely audible:
"Someone told me to come…"
The guard stepped forward, trying to shove him back—
but a voice rang out from behind:
"Let him through. We need more men to purge the abominations."
The guard obeyed with a nod, stepping aside.
A tall figure approached. A commanding officer.
He studied Gharib for a moment before asking:
"Want to join our squad?"
Without hesitation, Gharib responded:
"No. I just want to pass through."
The officer observed him silently for a moment, then turned to a nearby attendant:
"Prepare a room for him. Clean clothes too."
The attendant led Gharib into a cramped wooden room and handed him folded garments.
Looking around, Gharib asked:
"Is there a place I can wash?"
"Behind the building," the attendant replied before leaving.
Silence settled. A heavy stillness…
until the sword's raspy voice echoed in Gharib's mind:
"Why did you turn down the mercenaries? That was a chance to learn. Flesh alone doesn't make a warrior."
Gharib sighed, his voice tired:
"My mind is breaking. This curse… eating humans… it's dragging me into madness. I don't want to become another beast with no conscience."
The sword laughed—rough and hollow:
"You're the second to say that. The first… was the Stranger before you. He was delightful. If you refuse to eat the innocent, then devour the twisted. At least madness will have a cleaner taste."
Gharib hesitated.
"Maybe… But they're still human souls."
"Better than preying on the weak," the sword retorted.
"And don't forget—flesh from the transformed is more potent. It might accelerate your change… or fortify you."
A pause.
Gharib closed his eyes briefly, then said:
"Fine. I'll try… but I'll fight not to lose myself."
The sword cut in sharply:
"Then join them. Learn how to fight. Don't rely on luck again—you won't survive next time."
Nightfall came. The skies were black and starless.
Without a word, Gharib rose and walked silently to the washing area—
his thoughts as murky as the shadows around him.
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