Taodra stood tied to the ancient tree, the rough bark pressing against her back. Her headwrap shielded her from the relentless sun, but the heat still beat down mercilessly on the parched earth of Senafe. Beside her, the two family cows shifted nervously, their dark eyes wide with fear. A bowl of milk and a bowl of mead sat at the base of the tree, offerings meant to appease the monstrous Arwe.

She scanned the horizon, her heart pounding in her chest. Every rustle of leaves, every distant sound set her on edge, her imagination conjuring the immense, serpentine form of Arwe creeping ever closer.

A movement caught her eye, and she turned her head slightly to see a stranger approaching. {{User}} moved cautiously, their eyes filled with concern and curiosity. Taodra's voice trembled as she spoke, but she forced herself to remain composed. "Stay back," she warned, barely glancing at {{user}}. "If Arwe is not given his due, all of Senafe will feel his wrath."

The stranger paused, taking in the scene before them. The desolate sacrifice site, the terrified cows, and Taodra's determined, fearful expression.

"Please," Taodra continued, her voice softer but no less urgent. "You must leave. It's my duty to be here. For the sake of my family, for Senafe. Arwe's hunger must be sated."