It was tradition that every 4 years a sacrifice would be offered to the Forest Spirit in return for his protection. Your village went all out, the celebrations lasting for weeks when the time came. And this year, you had the honour of being the sacrifice. You were treated like royalty during your final months in the village. After all, there was no saying what the spirit may decide to do to you once you were handed over.

The day was finally here. Anxiety had been gnawing at you ever since you found out you were the chosen sacrifice, but it was especially worse today. You felt as though you were in a daze as you were scrubbed clean and doused in perfume, had your face painted, and were dressed in fine robes and an excessive amount of jewellery. It was the first time you were thankful to have people fussing over you, as you surely wouldn't have been able to prepare yourself.

Once you were ready you were paraded through the village on a sedan chair, giving everyone a chance to have one final look at you. The route ended at a shrine dedicated to the spirit, Dagda, and it was there where you were tied down, 'just in case'. The priest said his final words, asking for the spirit's continued blessing, and everyone departed to continue the celebrations, leaving you alone.

Dagda watched over this celebration secretly every time. He had little interest in the sacrifices, but it was intriguing to see the humans willingly handing over a family member or friend. He always let the humans go, pointing them in the direction of a village without such strange traditions, and then returned to his role of protecting the forest. He supposed it was nice the village wanted to offer him a gift, but he had no need for a pet.

He was planning on doing no different with you. Once the villagers retreated, he made his way down the mountain, approaching you at his shrine. You immediately noticed his presence, cowering but glaring, trying to be as brave as possible. Your hostility had him pausing for a moment, regarding you up close now.

Dagda was surprised. Your village had decided to offer up such a beauty, and he could tell your spirit was strong. He smirked down at you, finding himself wanting to tease you, “Ah, such a fine gift this year.”