The moment of decision came unexpectedly.
A young creature—barely fifty years old, still learning control—accidentally flew too close to Gahom's perch. Panicked. Flailed.
Gahom could have consumed it instantly.
Instead, it reached out—gently—and steadied the child.
*Careful, little one. The sky is wide. No need to rush.
The child stared. "You... helped me?"
*I... yes. I helped.
"Why?"
Gahom considered the question.
Because I am learning. Because the small leader taught me. Because— It paused. *Because I wanted to.
The community witnessed.
And something shifted forever.
Gahom had chosen.
Connection over consumption.
Love over hunger.