Reality has been touch and go for a while now, but it's unmistakable that the wolf clearly responds to one of his questions. Which only brings up more. If it isn't one of his brother's Graces, just where did it come from? If they read his mind, they'd know a wolf would be able to manipulate him to do what they want. The sickness subsiding as he's pushed towards the flame should be a sign that it's the right direction, and he shouldn't question how it came on so quickly, but nothing is ever so simple. It's a wonder they didn't just compel him to come forward if they're this desperate.

He's still foggy from the fever even after it breaks, and now that he's sure the wolf understands him, he knows why it's purposely ignoring his protests. When it noses the talisman in his pocket and points him to the fire, he doesn't have to guess what it's saying. The wolf didn't drag him across the room to help, it did it to get him to destroy the talisman. For some reason it matters that Five is the one who does it.

All along he had reservations about Karsa's plan, and he halfway expects something worse to happen to him if he complies. He pulls out the talisman and feels the anguish he carries swirl, reminding him of what can happen when doing the Merchant's favors. But there's a chance it'll be the thing that summons the boy with the umbrella, get some answers, and he knows he never had a choice.

He looks at the wolf, then pushes himself up to stand next to the flames. And drops it in.