Chapter 383
"The goddess believes that only through combat can the strongest and most worthy emerge," the priest explained. "While the Chief has long been respected, perhaps he is not the one chosen by the divine."
Though hesitant, the priests were gradually swayed by his passionate conviction. The idea of a grand challenge, a test of strength and destiny, was intoxicating.
News of the impending battle spread like wildfire through the ratmen’s tunnels. Their once-peaceful society, now fraying under the strain of ambition and deceit, was gripped by equal measures of fear and excitement. The Chief, alerted to the unrest, summoned the priest, his tone brimming with barely restrained fury.
"A divine test?" the Chief scoffed, his voice heavy with disdain. "What nonsense is this? It’s nothing more than a blatant power grab."
The priest maintained his air of piety, his voice calm yet resolute. "The goddess has commanded it, Chief. We must honor her will."
Realizing the futility of arguing with a zealot, the Chief sighed. "Very well. Let the battle commence. But if this chaos leads to our ruin, you’ll bear the blame."
As he stormed out, the Chief caught whispers of his people’s excitement. Their voices buzzed with anticipation for the combat. A pang of sorrow filled his heart as he reflected on the state of their society.
"How far we’ve fallen," the Chief muttered to himself. "Perhaps we should have accepted the Empire’s offer when we had the chance. This madness could have been avoided."
He shook his head, banishing the regret. "No use dwelling on the past. This battle could be the turning point I’ve been waiting for."