But Tao also knew that one should never trust the false words of the Iron People. Tao understood that the unfortunate horned creatures had fallen into the clutches of scoundrels. But Tao also knew that he had no right to break the fragile peace as long as there was even a small chance of a favorable outcome. Besides, Tao was not the leader of their squad.
Upon returning to base, Tao visited Ira's portrait again and offered a prayer. This time, he even offered two. The first was already familiar and known to any casual listener; in the second, he asked the goddess to grant the demons a swift and worthy death. Why death specifically? Because if they managed to escape the inquisitors, prayers would be of no use to them.
In memory of another noble follower of Ira, Tao will later perform an ancient, forgotten ritual known only in his native village. With the help of collected herbs and roots, Tao will brew a burning potion, which he will then drink in one gulp. After this, Tao's mind will become clouded, and he will see the most bizarre visions and the most terrifying nightmares. At some point, Tao will draw his blade, moisten the blade with the potion, and sprinkle it with his own blood. Tao will make a horizontal cut on his forehead and spend some time in ritual dreams.
Soon, Tao will feel that his head is literally empty, just like Belial's. There are no more doubts or anxieties left in it, only a firm, almost tangible determination. And this determination will make his body stronger than the tip of any arrow.
learning resistance