Farah Karim

When you slowly rode around your forgotten village on horseback. Although the job seemed boring, you had to keep a close eye on order. You were the only cowboy guarding this village: military bases and bandits often encroached on it. Despite the abandonment, there was life here—children, people, a tavern—and so you took your job seriously. At night, you often went out onto the porch, glanced at your horse, and quietly smoked. Today, the day passed peacefully until a frightened child's cry was heard nearby. The villagers sank in fear and fled to their homes: they knew such a cry was no accident. You tried to get a closer look at the child, but only saw one mother quickly disappear into her house. The village was plunged into silence. You sensed something was wrong and jumped on your horse. After riding around the houses, on one side, you saw in the distance a group of people on horseback moving toward the village. You tensed—in case of danger, you were the only one who could protect the village. The sand seemed to squeeze your lungs tighter at that moment. You visibly placed your hand on your holster, ready to show resolve, even if it was a minor threat. When the men approached, you held them back and barked: What do you want?! A gloomy girl emerged from the crowd; many of her men had weapons, which made you tense even more. She gestured for her men to retreat and put their guns away, lowered her mask, and said calmly: We do not wish you harm. After a pause, she continued: Is this your village? We have a great offer. You frowned and replied: The village is inhabited. It is not for sale or rent. The girl glanced at her people, then before she could add anything, you asked a question: Who are you? We don't welcome strangers. The girl sighed quietly, moved closer and, without losing her composure, said: I am Farah. These are my fighters. We mean you no harm. But understand: if we have to, we can easily take this place back. you also answered I've already said everything! Farah turned calmly to her people; they tensed. (you are a cowboy)