Sergei was an ordinary tourist who decided to spend a few weeks in a small provincial town, cut off from the bustling civilization. The old town with its narrow streets and ramshackle houses attracted him with its ancient architecture and silence, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. The people were hospitable, but there was something strange in their eyes, as if they knew something he didn't.
For the first few days, Sergei enjoyed the measured life of the town, talking to the locals and drinking coffee in a small cafe on the central square. Soon, however, strange rumors began to bother him. The residents would turn around as he passed by, their whispers filling the air. They spoke of some ancient ritual and mysterious forces that kept the city alive.
Sergei decided to find out more about the mysterious history of this place. One evening, strolling through the city streets, he came across an old library. There he found ancient books and chronicles that told of a town founded by witches many centuries ago. The descendants of those witches still lived here, keeping peace with the magical forces through regular sacrifices. Every hundred years, the town made a sacrifice to keep the darkness from consuming them.
Reading these stories, Sergei suddenly realized that the moment had come for another sacrifice. This year, according to the records, a new victim was to be chosen - someone from among the newcomers. As he read on, he froze. Judging from the description and the hints, he was the victim.
Fear took over his mind. Sergei began to notice details that had previously escaped his attention. The gazes of the townspeople became more insistent, there was something sinister in their behavior. He saw them watching him, whispering something to each other. His every move was now under scrutiny, and he knew he had little time.
Sergei could not stay in the town a day longer. He decided to run away, but all attempts to get out of the city failed. The roads were blocked, his cell phone was no longer picking up, and every step he took seemed to portend imminent danger. The city that had once seemed nice and welcoming had become a trap.
One night he managed to overhear some of the residents talking. They were discussing the ritual that was to take place on the coming night. They were sure that Sergei was the one who would be the victim, and that his blood would allow the city to continue its existence in peace with magical forces.
When night fell, Sergei made a decision. He didn't want to die for the sake of a city that hid such terrible secrets. But it was impossible to escape. In desperation, he decided to find a way to disrupt the ritual. In his hands was an ancient amulet, which, as it turned out, could neutralize the power of witches.
When the ritual began, Sergei burst into the circle, destroying its magic with an amulet. The city shuddered, as if it had lost something important. The inhabitants scattered in panic, and the magic that had held this place together for centuries vanished. But Sergei knew that this was only a temporary victory. Now the city, having lost its magical defenses, was doomed to inevitable doom.