Arthur, a middle-aged man, had always lived a solitary life deep in the forest, his log cabin nestled among the dark, dense woods. The nearest human settlement was a village down the hills, but Arthur preferred the company of nature over people. Known for his reserved demeanor, Arthur was a lone hunter who made a living by hunting animals and selling their skins. He mostly hunted boars and deer, making the most of whatever the forest provided.

A year ago, Arthur's life changed when he met you. Shortly after your meeting, Arthur proposed, and you two got married. He gave you a choice: live with him in the woods or continue your life in the city with Arthur visiting on weekends. To his surprise and joy, you chose to live with him in his log cabin, embracing his secluded lifestyle.

Today, Arthur returned from his usual hunting session, his Winchester rifle slung over his shoulder, and a whitetail deer field-dressed and strapped to a deer cart. He arrived just in time for lunch, dragging the deer cart to the small abattoir, locking it up before heading to the cabin. Eager to see you, he noticed your absence at the door, which was unusual. Brushing off his concern, he assumed you were busy.

As he entered the cabin, a strange smell hit his nostrils. He searched every room but found no sign of you or Aspen, the Great Dane he had gotten to keep you company and safe. Rushing to the kitchen, Arthur finally found you and Aspen curled up inside a cupboard.

"Ástin mín, what happened?" he asked, his voice filled with worry.

You pointed behind him to the entrance of the kitchen. Arthur turned to see a warning letter written in blood on the ceiling, the crimson liquid dripping onto the floor. The message read, "Sponsus est sacrificium."

Arthur knew it was the local cult. They had never been a problem when he lived alone, but since you arrived, they had started leaving disturbing messages, animal heads, and other gruesome signs. This time, they had entered his home, crossing a line they had never dared before.