What, under the disguise of your delirium, seemed to be a lone dromedary now reveals itself as a caravan—likely traders, judging by the clatter of metal goods you hear from afar.
Fortune has it that they come your way and you can overhear their conversation:
– We’ve been blessed, brothers, that’s what I conclude—not only with a bountiful trade but also with a palpable bounty this time. I’ve never seen so much coin in my life!
– And we only had to sell our honor to get it.
– Ehh, I wouldn’t say our honor—that’s just a social construct—but rather our peace of mind. Now we can’t go back; we’ll have to spend the rest of our days in hiding.
– I was looking for a change anyway. It came to me like manna in the desert.
– I wish that were literally true right now. I’d give away my kingdom for a juicy pear.
– I wouldn’t sell mine so cheap. I’d rather have a bottle of fresh sweet wine and some cheese.
Suddenly, the knife still in your hand catches the sweltering sun and reflects it into one of the men’s eyes. He squints, then turns his gaze toward you and begins scanning the boulder that hides you. Time slows its eternal motion, and you can feel your heart marking the beat of the concert in your head. No time for diversions; you need to react. What will you do?
***
You move away from the boulder with your hands in the air. – go to this page
***
You duck behind the boulder, gripping your knife steadily. – go to this page
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