Chapter Text
I stand outside, slowly walking down a path through verdant temperate plains. The air is warm as the sun peeks through clouds before hiding behind them again. A crisp wind blows through, keeping me cool in this warm climate. Underneath my feet is a long winding path, most of it now behind me. I decided to traverse this path long ago, and now I approach the end of it after a countless time spent walking.
In the distance, I see a fork in the path, 2 diverging roads. As I come closer to this intersection, I see where these paths lead. To the left of me is a village some distance away, complete with buildings and people milling about far away. I look to the right. The temperate plains give way to an arid desert whose path seems to wind down past the horizon. I am no stranger to this desolate desert, one which I have had to navigate through before. Back when I was different. Back when I was a worse version of myself who deserved the sweltering heat and frigid night of the desert sands. Now I am different, as this solitary wander has changed me for the better.
Even then, I debate which path to take. Would the village accept me, even after all of this time? I wouldn't blame them if they don't. Maybe that sweltering heat and frigid cold is a part of me, unchanging. Yet I believe deep inside me that this path into the desert will do nothing but lead to more misery. I stand at the intersection, undecided on which route to take.