Think about the story. Why does the narrator first eat the soul orb dust? To avoid losing the memories and feelings that the dust contains To ease the fear of remaining isolated and becoming a Shell To save the dust so that it can later be used to pay the Crone To regain strength to venture back to the settlement
The narrator first eats the soul orb dust to regain strength to venture back to the settlement. The dust is described as giving a surge of energy and power, which would help the narrator in their journey back to civilization. This decision is made out of a practical need for survival and a desire to overcome any obstacles that may come their way.
